TITLE: Kings Keep Working Phones After Hunter Trade; Bulls, Blazers Also Weigh Options
SLUG: kings-bulls-blazers-trade-deadline-update
CONTENT:
Sacramento, Calif. — The Sacramento Kings are still working the trade market after landing forward De’Andre Hunter, sources told numerous outlets this week.
Kings add roster flexibility
Following a deal that sent out three players and brought back only Hunter, Sacramento now has two open standard roster spots. One is expected to go to center Dylan Cardwell, but not until after Thursday’s trade deadline, according to James Ham of The Kings Beat.
The additional flexibility could allow the Kings to absorb multiple players in a larger transaction. Ham cited Toronto’s RJ Barrett as a hypothetical return if Sacramento constructs a package built around All-Star center Domantas Sabonis, though no agreement is close.
ClutchPoints reporter Brett Siegel added that the Kings passed on offers of multiple second-round picks for guard Keon Ellis, opting instead to move Dennis Schröder’s contract and prioritize Hunter’s size and defense. Rival executives now view Sacramento as one of the league’s most active sellers, Siegel wrote.
Trade discussions have touched on Sabonis, DeMar DeRozan and Malik Monk, with Monk considered the most attainable. Interest in Sabonis, particularly from Toronto, has been described as exploratory, while talks involving DeRozan and Monk have yet to gain momentum.
Bulls take calls on Jones, Smith
The Chicago Bulls are listening to offers but are not rushing into moves, Julia Poe of the Chicago Tribune reported. San Antonio guard Tre Jones and Indiana big man Jalen Smith have drawn inquiries; Jones is viewed as available, whereas Smith would require a substantial proposal.
Both players are under contract for 2024-25, and Jones carries a team option for 2027-28. Chicago is willing to move veterans on expiring deals but does not plan to dismantle its core, a stance that includes keeping guard Coby White, Poe noted.
Head coach Billy Donovan told reporters the organization remains focused on adding younger talent, whether before the deadline or during free agency in July.
Blazers shop Robert Williams
In Portland, the Trail Blazers have gauged interest in center Robert Williams, whose $13.3 million contract expires after this season, per Siegel. Sean Highkin of The Rose Garden Report wrote that Williams is highly regarded inside the locker room and sets the tone when healthy.
While the 26-year-old has been productive in a limited role and has enjoyed better health this year, his injury history continues to cloud both his trade value and Portland’s long-term plans.
League executives expect discussions around all three teams to intensify as Thursday’s deadline approaches.
Source: Hoops Wire
