Everyone knows it at this point. The Sacramento Kings are looking into a full rebuild, one that will hopefully renew their chances. A big part of that will be making trades for younger, more defensively minded players, and a chance to make a move on Josh Minott is coming up on December 15.
In the NBA, December 15 is an important date that doesn't get talked about enough. The majority of players who signed contracts in the offseason become available for trade that day. For all intents and purposes, it's the unofficial start to trade season that will end with the trade deadline in February.
Naturally, not every player who signed an offseason contract becomes available for trade that day. It also doesn't mean that a team will be open to trading anyone those terms apply to. At the same time, that's the point that conversations start for real and moves will start being planned.
For a team like Sacramento that needs to make some trades to start its rebuild, this is a very important date. Their options remain limited thanks to a few large contracts that will be difficult to move before they expire. That doesn't mean there aren't opportunities worth exploring.
Josh Minott is just what the doctor ordered for the Kings
A big part of what Sacramento wants to do is grow its defensive presence. That means more players with that focus. Keegan Murray is one of their strongest defenders, and bringing both Precious Achiuwa and Dennis Schroder in has helped in that regard. But more players are needed.
Josh Minott is a transition threat on offense who is quick down the court and scores with authority, while also moving incredibly well without the ball. He applies that same energy and explosiveness to defense, staying both athletic and disruptive with the ability to pick his opponents' pockets.
Not only is Minott the exact kind of player the Kings need, but he's also someone Sacramento can engineer a solid trade for. If the Celtics are looking for young players, Devin Carter and Keon Ellis are good options. If they're looking for a big man, the Kings might be able to move on from Sabonis.
The Celtics are a little depleted after their offseason fire sale to deal with payroll issues. Bringing in reinforcements from Sacramento could help them. In exchange, the Kings get a more experienced defender they definitely need who would complement Keegan Murray's style of play.