Domantas Sabonis is expected to be traded by the Sacramento Kings, either before the February trade deadline or during the 2027 offseason, according to Sean Deveney of Heavy.com.
Deveney reported that Sacramento has no interest in keeping the 30-year-old center, while finding a first-round pick in return would be a significant achievement for the franchise.
The Kings are also carrying Zach LaVine’s expiring contract, worth $48.97 million this season, alongside Sabonis’ $45.47 million salary. Deveney identified both players as potential trade assets, but said Sabonis could remain in Sacramento until next summer if the team does not find an acceptable deal before the deadline.
Sabonis is averaging 16.0 points, 15.8 rebounds and 7.3 assists in 37 minutes per game through six appearances this season. He is shooting 70.4% from the field, although Sacramento has opened the campaign with a 0-6 record.
Deveney also pointed to the Kings’ decision to give Darius Acuff Jr. a major role. The rookie is averaging 26.3 points and 6.3 assists in 36.5 minutes, but shooting 39.6% overall and 32.2% from three-point range.
The report suggested Acuff’s ball-dominant role has further complicated the market for Sacramento’s established players.
Sabonis is in the third year of a four-year, $186 million contract. His salary rises from $45.47 million in 2026-27 to $48.61 million in 2027-28, when he will be eligible for an extension.
LaVine’s $48.97 million salary expires after this season, while Sabonis has one more season under contract. Moving either player would give Sacramento a route to reshape a roster that also includes De’Andre Hunter, Keegan Murray and Malik Monk on substantial contracts.
The Kings are projected to remain over the salary cap in 2027-28, although their cap outlook depends heavily on free-agent holds and future contract decisions.
