Raptors Eye Domantas Sabonis As Kings Demand First Round Pick

Merlin sees Sacramento demanding a first-round pick for Domantas Sabonis, per Michael Scotto of HoopsHype. The Kings told at least one team that "they'd like a first-round pick in return." Toronto appears likeliest, with Washington, Phoenix and Chicago also linked. Sabonis, 30, is owed $94.08 million over the next two seasons and is averaging 15.5 points, 11.4 rebounds and 4.2 assists since returning from a partially torn meniscus. Merlin senses the ask and long contract make a deal tricky. The Kings have rejected offers that included Jakob Poeltl for back concerns and Immanuel Quickley for contract reasons. Talks have mentioned RJ Barrett and Ochai Agbaji as possible pieces for Toronto. With the Feb. 5 deadline looming, "Sabonis is still worth monitoring in the weeks ahead." Sacramento must choose between firming a rebuild with picks or keeping a proven All-Star and hoping chemistry heals.