The Kings need to start making big moves, or at least getting ready for the trade deadline. It feels weird talking about that before the season has even started but this is when those conversations have to start. That's especially true for a team that many think is already in the weeds.
It's a process that starts with the assessing the Kings' current roster. That means figuring out who they want to keep and who they are willing to part ways with. Being that they tried to trade Malik Monk and DeMar DeRozan over the summer, it's easy to guess which side of that line they'll be on.
Really, the only player on their no trade list is probably Domantas Sabonis. He has been a top scorer for the Kings as well as the best rebounder in the league. At the same time, he's not their most valuable trade asset thanks to his at best tepid defense. No, Keegan Murray is their best option.
Keegan Murray's trade return would be huge
First and foremost, this is not a recommendation to trade Keegan Murray. He is low-key one of the top young guns in the league, a versatile player with a lot of upside. If the Kings would put him in position to succeed, he could do big things for them.
The same is true of other teams, though, and the rest of the league knows it. There are several franchises who would love to put a power forward with Murray's potential on their roster. And the Kings could easily get a couple of significant players and a draft pick or two for him.
The only reason the Kings should even consider this move isn't about Murray's skills or gameplay. Considering the state of the Kings and his place on the roster, he might be looking for an out. If so, the front office should get something for him before he leaves as a free agent.