The Sacramento Kings are reportedly exploring trade possibilities for their star point guard De’Aaron Fox ahead of the February 6 trade deadline, according to multiple sources, including ESPN’s Shams Charania. This marks a significant potential shakeup for the franchise as Fox, a former All-Star and cornerstone player, could be on his way out.
Fox, now in his eighth season with the Kings, is averaging 25.2 points, 6.2 assists, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game while shooting 46.8% from the field this season. His production highlights his role as one of the premier guards in the league. However, the Kings’ inability to establish themselves as consistent contenders has reportedly left Fox contemplating his future.
The 27-year-old guard is in the fourth year of a five-year, $163 million max extension, with one year remaining on his contract after this season. He will earn $37.1 million in the 2025-26 season before becoming a free agent. Reports suggest that Fox has a specific destination in mind as he looks ahead to his next contract in 2026, adding intrigue to trade discussions.
The Kings have had an inconsistent season, currently sitting at 24-22, clinging to the 10th seed in the Western Conference, which puts them in the play-in tournament range. The team’s struggles earlier in the season led to the firing of head coach Mike Brown in late December.
Since then, interim coach Doug Christie has guided the Kings to an 11-4 record, suggesting some improvement. Despite this, the franchise’s trajectory has done little to convince Fox of their championship aspirations, as he has been vocal about his desire to compete at the highest level.
The Kings’ willingness to entertain trade talks for Fox underscores their awareness of his potentially waning commitment to the team and the possibility of him leaving in free agency. Moving Fox now could allow Sacramento to reshape their roster while receiving assets in return, rather than risk losing him for nothing later.
While there are expected to be numerous suitors for a player of Fox’s caliber, reports indicate that his preferred destination is not the Los Angeles Lakers, despite his agent, Rich Paul, representing Lakers stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
One team frequently mentioned in connection with Fox is the San Antonio Spurs, who are reportedly looking to pair him with 2023 No. 1 overall pick Victor Wembanyama. Such a pairing could create a dynamic backcourt and frontcourt duo for years to come.
However, trading for Fox will not be cheap. His talent, contract, and age make him a valuable asset, and any deal would likely require significant draft capital and young players in return. This steep asking price could limit the number of teams willing to enter serious negotiations.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Kings face a critical decision: move their franchise player now for a substantial return or gamble on convincing him to stay. Meanwhile, Fox’s future could reshape the playoff and championship landscape if he lands with a team poised to contend. Sacramento’s decision in the coming days could set the tone for both their future and Fox’s career trajectory.
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