Kings may have little choice but to stand pat ahead of trade deadline

The Kings may not be as active at the trade deadline as some around the league expect.

According to Sam Amick of The Athletic, Sacramento faces an uphill battle in trying to move Zach LaVine’s maximum-salary contract without including a draft pick, and the front office isn’t inclined to do that.

General manager Scott Perry values the team’s draft assets as a critical part of its long-term plan and isn’t interested in sacrificing future flexibility simply to clear salary.

That stance could result in a quiet deadline. Amick reports there’s a “very real chance” LaVine remains with the Kings beyond the trade deadline, along with other veteran pieces such as Domantas Sabonis and DeMar DeRozan. Perry has emphasized patience since taking over basketball operations, signaling a willingness to let the roster breathe rather than force major changes.

League sources told The Athletic that Sabonis has embraced that approach and is prepared to stay in Sacramento for the foreseeable future. While teams including the Wizards, Suns, and Bulls have shown interest in the past, his contract presents similar challenges to LaVine’s in any potential deal.

One exception could be guard Keon Ellis, who continues to generate interest across the NBA. Even so, the Kings have not ruled out keeping Ellis and pursuing an extension when he becomes eligible later this season, which could require a more stable role in the rotation.