The Sacramento Kings trying to trade Domantas Sabonis is the worst-kept secret in the league. They want to move on. He seems to agree. This has led to basically an endless parade of rumors popping up about potential deals, none of which seem to be true. This will happen, but it's a matter of time.
For some reason, reports recently appeared about the Kings and the Hornets getting close to a trade for Sabonis. That was quickly shut down by Matt George of Sactown Sports 1140, who made it clear there have been no conversations between the two franchises since well before the 2026 draft.
Yes, there were talks between the two groups months ago. There is no evidence that anything is happening now or that the Hornets still have any interest in the All-Star. The same is true of the Raptors, who were close to trading for him around the 2026 trade deadline.
As it stands right now, all fans really know is that Sabonis has changed representation. His new agent is well-known for moving supposedly immovable players. That's key for Sabonis, as his sizable contract has limited his trade options. Beyond that, not much else is going on that we know of.
A Sabonis trade could take serious time
The problem is that a deal involving Sabonis could be announced any day between now and the trade deadline in February 2027. If there are teams currently involved in those talks, the Kings are keeping their lips zipped tight. The only teams with any real momentum have been the Hornets and Raptors.
There's also potential for a deal not to happen any time soon. As previously mentioned, Sabonis's current contract has been a roadblock to wider trade conversations. Until more time and money tick off of it, there's a real chance that nothing will happen. That means potentially waiting until 2028.
Seeing Sabonis on the move around the 2028 trade deadline wouldn't be a surprise. There is also a chance that no trade happens at all, and Sabonis remains a King until his contract expires at the end of the 2027-2028 season. It's not the best outcome for Sacramento, but it is possible.
Naturally, the Kings would rather get something out of his departure, though it will still open up significant salary cap. For now, fans just have to be patient and remember that big trades like this take time. The same is true of Zach LaVine, who will be on the move by the end of 2026-2027 at the latest.
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