The Washington Wizards have contacted the Sacramento Kings about a potential trade centered on Domantas Sabonis, according to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, adding another layer to Sacramento’s evolving deadline outlook. The talks come as both teams sit near the bottom of their respective conferences and weigh long-term roster direction.
Fischer reported Wednesday, February 4: “The Stein Line has learned that the Wizards have called Sacramento about the prospect of building an offer for Sabonis around Khris Middleton’s $33 million expiring salary, but I’m told that there has yet to be a trade framework presented to the Kings that would compel them to part with Sabonis … yet.” The insider also noted that Sacramento is prioritizing draft capital in any deal.
The Kings enter the deadline at 12–39, last in the Western Conference, while Washington owns a 13–36 record and sits 14th in the East.
Sabonis remains one of Sacramento’s most productive players despite a limited sample size this season. The 29-year-old center is averaging 15.4 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 4.2 assists over 18 games.
Sacramento’s roster has shifted recently after acquiring De’Andre Hunter in a three-team deal on February 1, signaling a willingness to reshape its forward rotation around Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, and Russell Westbrook. Moving a high-usage big man would further indicate a strategic pivot toward perimeter-driven offense and future assets.
From Washington’s perspective, the interest aligns with a roster built around youth and spacing but lacking an established playmaking center.
Khris Middleton’s expiring $33 million salary represents a financial pathway rather than a long-term solution, allowing the rebuilding franchise to absorb Sabonis while maintaining cap flexibility. Washington has been active in reshaping its roster after acquiring Trae Young in a mid-game trade on January 9, a move that shifted the team toward a guard-centric identity.
League-wide context also matters, as Sacramento has explored multiple scenarios involving its frontcourt. The organization has reportedly been evaluating offers while searching for first-round picks.
No formal framework has been finalized, and Fischer indicated that the Kings have yet to receive an offer strong enough to force a decision before Thursday’s deadline. That uncertainty leaves open the possibility that Sabonis remains in California as Sacramento continues evaluating its roster around veteran scoring options.
