The NBA offseason has arrived, and the Sacramento Kings are reportedly exploring significant roster changes that could reshape their future trajectory. Following a disappointing 40-42 season that ended in another play-in tournament elimination, new general manager Scott Perry appears ready to test the trade waters for veteran stars.
According to NBA insider reports, the Kings are expected to gauge the market for veteran forward DeMar DeRozan while potentially testing trade interest in All-Star center Domantas Sabonis, who signed a four-year, $186 million extension in 2023.
With ownership reportedly dissatisfied with the team’s direction and multiple organizational changes already implemented, Sacramento’s front office seems prepared to explore all avenues to improve their competitive standing.
Sacramento’s Organizational Upheaval Sets Stage for Major Moves
The Kings’ 2024-25 season was marked by unprecedented instability that ultimately led to franchise-altering decisions. Head coach Mike Brown was dismissed mid-season after a 13-18 start, replaced by former Kings player Doug Christie. The coaching change created ripple effects throughout the organization, most notably influencing De’Aaron Fox’s decision to request a trade.
Fox, who had been the face of the franchise since being drafted fifth overall in 2017, was ultimately dealt to the San Antonio Spurs in February as part of a three-team trade that brought Zach LaVine to Sacramento. The move marked the end of an era for a player who helped break the Kings’ NBA-record 16-season playoff drought in 2023.
With the Fox trade serving as a catalyst for organizational change, general manager Monte McNair was relieved of his duties, paving the way for Perry’s hiring in April. Perry, who previously served as general manager of the New York Knicks from 2017-2023, now faces the challenge of rebuilding a roster that has failed to capitalize on recent talent acquisitions.
DeMar DeRozan Trade Rumors Gain Momentum as Kings Seek Direction
According to Kings beat reporter Jason Anderson, the Kings are actively exploring trade opportunities for DeRozan, who joined Sacramento in July 2024 via sign-and-trade from the Chicago Bulls. Anderson wrote, “The Kings are expected to explore trades for DeMar DeRozan, a six-time All-Star who averaged 22.2 points, 3.9 rebounds and 4.4 assists this season while shooting 47.7% from the field and 32.8% from 3-point range.”
The Sacramento Kings are expected to explore trades for DeMar DeRozan and may also test the market for Domantas Sabonis, per @JandersonSacBee
“The Kings are expected to explore trades for DeMar DeRozan, a six-time All-Star who averaged 22.2 points, 3.9 rebounds and 4.4 assists… pic.twitter.com/wlF97mjvpl
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 25, 2025
DeRozan’s fit with the revamped Kings roster has proven challenging, particularly after the midseason departures of both Brown and Fox – two key factors in his initial decision to join Sacramento. The 35-year-old forward signed a three-year, $74 million contract but has acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the organization’s direction.
The veteran scorer’s comments following Sacramento’s season-ending loss revealed his mindset about the future. “You don’t have many opportunities left to give yourself a chance to compete in the playoffs,” DeRozan stated. “I’m not trying to play another five, six years. You’ve only got so many years. That window closes quick.”
Multiple sources suggest the Kings would likely seek a first-round pick in exchange for DeRozan, with the team reportedly expressing confidence to agents that they could acquire a selection in the early-to-mid 20s range of the upcoming NBA Draft.
Domantas Sabonis Contract Details and Trade Considerations
Regarding Sabonis, Anderson noted that Sacramento could also test the market for their franchise centerpiece, stating the organization may gauge interest despite not actively shopping the All-Star big man. Sabonis remains under contract through the 2027-28 season on his four-year, $186 million extension signed in July 2023.
The Lithuanian center has been the Kings’ most consistent performer since arriving via trade from Indiana in February 2022. He earned All-NBA Third Team honors in 2023 and continues to post impressive numbers, averaging 19.1 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 7.3 assists during Sacramento’s playoff-returning 2022-23 campaign.
However, even Sabonis has reportedly sought clarity from the organization regarding their future direction. Sources indicate the 28-year-old center wants to understand the Kings’ long-term vision before committing fully to the franchise’s rebuild efforts.
The combination of Sacramento’s organizational instability and Western Conference competitiveness has created an environment where all options remain on the table. The Kings’ willingness to explore trades for their highest-paid players signals a potential shift toward a more comprehensive roster overhaul rather than minor adjustments.
With Perry now leading basketball operations and Christie expected to return as head coach, the Kings face critical decisions that will determine their competitive timeline. Whether they choose to retool around their remaining core or pursue a broader rebuild, the organization’s approach to DeRozan and Sabonis will likely set the tone for Sacramento’s basketball future.
