TITLE: Multiple Clubs Contact Kings About Keon Ellis; Sacramento’s Stance on Poeltl, Kuminga, DeRozan, LaVine Clarified
SLUG: kings-trade-rumors-ellis-poeltl-kuminga-derozan-lavine
CONTENT:
Sacramento continues to receive steady interest in guard Keon Ellis, with the Timberwolves, Pacers, Celtics and Knicks among the teams that have recently checked in, broadcaster James Ham reported on the “Locked On Kings” podcast.
Ellis, 24, is on a $2.3 million expiring contract that carries Bird rights, making him extension-eligible on Feb. 9, two days after the trade deadline. Sacramento is believed to be seeking a late first-round pick for the fourth-year guard, and at least one weekend report listed him as a strong candidate to be moved.
Kings Uninterested in Jakob Poeltl
Ham added that Sacramento has “zero interest” in acquiring Jakob Poeltl from Toronto. The 28-year-old center has battled back issues this season and is signed through 2029-30. While Poeltl is off the table, Ham noted his source did not rule out potential conversations involving RJ Barrett, who was drafted by New York when current Kings general manager Scott Perry worked in the Knicks’ front office.
Despite speculation that the Raptors might ask for Ellis in any Domantas Sabonis framework, Ham said the two franchises have not discussed the guard.
Kuminga, DeRozan and Draft Picks
Sacramento remains interested in Jonathan Kuminga but is no longer willing to attach draft assets to an offer, according to Ham. He confirmed that the Kings previously proposed a straight-up swap of DeMar DeRozan for Kuminga. Golden State would have needed to add another player to remain below its hard cap, and the Warriors reportedly showed little interest in the veteran forward.
LaVine Complications
Ham also said Zach LaVine “would absolutely love” a move to Sacramento, yet his maximum-salary contract remains a major hurdle. One scenario that briefly offered hope involved Milwaukee—centered on Kyle Kuzma and Bobby Portis—but that possibility has faded amid the Bucks’ recent slump and Giannis Antetokounmpo’s latest calf strain.
Source: Hoops Rumors
