The Sacramento Kings are confronting a difficult trade market for All-Star center Domantas Sabonis. Despite consistent efforts to move the 30-year-old this offseason, rival executives reportedly question his positive trade value, complicating any potential deal.
League sources indicate a significant gap in how the Kings and other teams value Sabonis. Sacramento believes it should receive draft picks in return for the multi-time All-Star. But many executives hold the opposite view. They think the Kings would need to attach draft compensation to offload Sabonis' contract and the cost of a future extension.
The concern is financial. Acquiring Sabonis likely means committing to a new contract worth around $45 million to $48 million per year. That massive salary, combined with the assets needed to trade for him, has scared off most teams. It's a harsh assessment for a player who averaged a double-double last season.
The Detroit Pistons and Milwaukee Bucks are seen as the most plausible destinations. Talks with Detroit have centered on a potential sign-and-trade for young center Jalen Duren. The Pistons have reportedly offered Duren a $200 million contract, which he has not yet accepted.
If Detroit pursues a sign-and-trade, Sabonis' salary could be used to match money in a deal. The Bucks are also mentioned as a possible match in such a scenario. However, no deal is close, and the Kings' asking price remains a major obstacle.
Sabonis is a legendary offensive force and rebounder, but his defensive limitations are well-known. The Kings' increasing emphasis on defense makes him a questionable long-term fit for their rebuild. The team has been open about wanting to move on, with speculation dating back to the 2025 offseason and the 2026 trade deadline.
The same problem keeps resurfacing. His perceived market value doesn't align with Sacramento's goals. For now, the Kings are likely stuck with him. Sabonis is reportedly healthy and ready for training camp after knee surgery in February 2026.
This ongoing saga unfolds against the backdrop of an inconsistent finish to last season. Fans can track the team's upcoming schedule on our schedule page as this situation develops.
