A large number of teams have reached out to the Kings to ask about Keon Ellis, according to James Ham of Locked On Kings, who said several clubs are actively monitoring the fourth-year guard’s availability.
Ham specifically pointed to the Timberwolves, Pacers, Celtics, and Knicks as teams to keep an eye on as potential suitors.
“From what I have heard, (they) have all called on Keon Ellis,” Ham said.
Ellis has drawn widespread interest largely because of his team-friendly contract situation.
He’s playing on a $2.3MM expiring deal, which makes him a realistic trade target for virtually any team around the league, including franchises such as Minnesota, Boston, and New York that are currently above the first tax apron.
If Ellis were to be traded, his Bird rights would transfer to his new team, and he would become eligible for a contract extension on February 9, just days after the trade deadline.
A report over the weekend indicated Ellis is viewed as one of the players most likely to be moved before the deadline, with Sacramento reportedly hoping to land a late first-round pick in return.
Kings Rumors: Ellis, Poeltl, Kuminga, DeRozan, LaVine https://t.co/PjfzLsgzbU pic.twitter.com/Is7HDJIs5U
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) January 27, 2026
