Kings expected to retain coach Doug Christie, but trade talks loom

It’s been a rough year for the Kings, but it doesn’t sound like a reset is coming on the sideline.

For starters, Sacramento is expected to retain head coach Doug Christie through the offseason, according to Sam Amick of The Athletic.

The Kings the final day of the regular season at 22-59, tied for the fourth-worst record in the league. Not ideal. Still, team officials reportedly believe Christie hasn’t had a fair shake in his first full season.

He took over as interim coach in December 2024 after the dismissal of Mike Brown, then signed a three-year deal last year. Between roster questions and a wave of injuries, the Kings feel evaluating him strictly on wins and losses would be incomplete.

There were at least some positives.

Per ESPN’s Anthony Slater, the organization was encouraged by the development of several younger players under Christie’s watch.

Now comes the bigger question and that would be what’s next for the roster?

Well, the Kings are expected to revisit trade discussions involving veterans such as Zach LaVine, Domantas Sabonis, Malik Monk and DeMar DeRozan this offseason.

Sacramento reportedly had extensive talks with Toronto centered on Sabonis before the trade deadline, but balked at taking on Jakob Poeltl’s contract.

DeRozan’s situation is also worth watching. Only $10 million of his $25.74 million salary for next season is guaranteed, giving the Kings some flexibility.

So while the coach appears safe for now, the roster? That could look a whole lot different soon.