In a stunning development, the Sacramento Kings are reportedly open to trading their All-Star point guard, De’Aaron Fox, as the NBA trade deadline approaches. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Kings have already started receiving calls from interested teams, and discussions could lead to a deal before the February deadline.
Fox, who has become the centerpiece of the Kings’ franchise since being drafted fifth overall in 2017, has played at an elite level this season, averaging 25.2 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 6.2 assists. However, sources close to the situation suggest that Fox has a preferred destination in mind, though details of his intentions remain closely guarded by his camp.
The decision to move Fox comes as a surprise to many, considering his integral role in the Kings’ resurgence in recent seasons. The 26-year-old earned his first All-Star selection in 2023 and was named to the All-NBA third team the same year. But despite his success, Fox has turned down the Kings’ extension offers and has only one year left on his contract after the current 2024-25 season.
By trading Fox now, the Kings are looking to capitalize on his value and avoid losing him for nothing in free agency next year. The team has struggled with consistency this season, and the potential move would mark another significant shift for the organization, which already parted ways with head coach Mike Brown earlier in the year after a rocky start.
Doug Christie, the Kings’ assistant coach, was promoted to interim head coach and has since helped lead the team to an 11-4 record. Despite the improvement under Christie’s leadership, the Kings remain on the playoff bubble in the crowded Western Conference, sitting at No. 10 with a 24-22 record.
With Fox now potentially on the move, Sacramento’s future looks uncertain, but the decision to explore trade options could set the stage for a bold new direction for the franchise. Expect more developments as the trade deadline nears.
