NBA Rumors: Kings Receiving Calls on Keon Ellis; Grizzlies Dismiss Ja Morant Inquiries; Timberwolves Eye Point-Guard Help
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Sacramento, Memphis and Minnesota have become focal points as front offices survey the early trade landscape, according to a report from HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto.
Kings
League executives now view guard Keon Ellis as the most attainable asset on the Kings’ roster, pivoting away from forward Keegan Murray, whose current salary structure contains a poison-pill restriction. Ellis, 23, averaged 8.3 points, 2.7 rebounds and 1.5 assists while starting 28 games last season and shooting .489 from the field, .433 from three and .849 at the foul line. Sacramento posted a plus-3.0 net rating with him on the floor.
Ellis’ playing time has dropped to 17.4 minutes per game this fall, prompting several clubs — including the Indiana Pacers, who previously pursued him — to check on his availability. The guard is in the final season of his contract and becomes extension-eligible in February; without a new deal, he would reach unrestricted free agency in 2026.
Interest in Sacramento’s veteran pieces remains modest. There is minor Clippers buzz surrounding Bulls forward DeMar DeRozan, but chatter about DeRozan and Zach LaVine has been limited. Center Domantas Sabonis is considered a potential swing piece, yet he is currently sidelined by a knee issue and, per the report, has expressed frustration with both the team’s dip in wins since the 2022-23 playoff run and his usage under coach Doug Christie.
Grizzlies
Multiple teams have contacted the Memphis Grizzlies about guard Ja Morant, hoping to capitalize on a perceived buy-low window following a recent confrontation between Morant and coach Tuomas Iisalo. Memphis has consistently turned those inquiries away, maintaining confidence that it can salvage the season with Morant, who is signed long-term. Club officials believe the two-time All-Star’s trade value will rebound if he stays healthy and settles in.
Timberwolves
The Minnesota Timberwolves were among the franchises that made exploratory calls on Morant, per the report. Minnesota is searching for a steadier late-game presence at point guard but will only entertain scenarios that leave its core intact. Anthony Edwards is off-limits, and forward Jaden McDaniels is viewed in a similar light. The team’s goal is to reinforce the roster’s edges without dismantling its foundation.
Source: Hoops Wire
