Sacramento Kings center Domantas Sabonis
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Sabonis’ return remains uneven as the Kings prioritize caution ahead of matchup against the Toronto Raptors.
The Sacramento Kings remain one of the worst teams in the NBA and must move some of their bigger names at the trade deadline. Multi-time All-Star Domantas Sabonis likely has the strongest value for teams lacking a starting center. Sabonis’ all-around great play can boost the chances of multiple teams with hopes of playoff success.
NBA reporter Sam Amick reported that the Toronto Raptors have entered the conversation with three other teams:
“While Washington, Phoenix and Chicago are known to have had some interest in Sabonis, league sources confirmed reports that Toronto is a legitimate possibility as we approach the deadline.
It’s worth noting that the Raptors’ RJ Barrett, who is owed $27.7 million this season and $29.6 million next season, was drafted No. 3 overall out of Duke by current Kings general manager Scott Perry in 2019, when Perry held the same position with the Knicks.”
The Chicago Bulls, Phoenix Suns and Washington Wizards have all had discussions with the Kings in trade talks for Sabonis. Toronto makes sense since they have a talented roster but currently lack strong play from the center position. Sacramento should have a chance to get some decent assets back for Sabonis.
Toronto Offering Young Star For Sabonis
The report from Amick confirms that RJ Barrett is the main piece that Toronto would send back to Sacramento for Sabonis. Raptors management currently views Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram as untouchable. Even trade rumors involving Giannis Antetokounmpo sees those two players reportedly off the table.
The Kings must truly believe in Barrett as a potential building block for the future. Toronto has struggled this season in games without Barrett to show his value contributing to victories. Sacramento is looking for younger talents to rebuild the roster after the current core of veterans flopped.
Amick also mentions that current Kings General Manager Scott Perry strongly believed in Barrett ahead of the 2019 NBA Draft. Barrett has become a very good NBA player and helped the Raptors put together a winning record this season with increased hopes of playoff success. Sacramento could use a player like Barrett to provide more excitement for the future.
Other Teams Hoping To Acquire Sabonis
Three other teams mentioned in the report all have their own reasons for wanting Sabonis. Chicago is hoping to move on from Nikola Vucevic and get a center they strongly believe in to keep for the long-term future.
Washington is arguably the most surprising team since they have one of the worst records in the league. However, the Wizards adding Trae Young shows they are trying to improve their talent to compete next season. Phoenix overachieving this season explains their need to add another dynamic talent to improve their playoff chances.
All four teams involved will have a fair chance to acquire Sabonis since the Kings have little incentive to keep him. Toronto entering the fray and having a young talent in his prime could tip the scales. Sacramento only has so few players that will get them strong talent back, so they must take the best offer here.