Sacramento Kings Shopping Sabonis and DeRozan
Merlin sees the Kings are willing to move multiple big names before the Feb. 5 trade deadline, with Domantas Sabonis and DeMar DeRozan among those on the table. ESPN’s Anthony Slater calls Sabonis a "name to watch" and says GM Scott Perry is "open to discussing trades for all their high-priced veterans." HoopsHype reported exploratory talks with the Clippers, and Sacramento’s 11-30 start makes a rebuild increasingly likely. Sabonis is a high-impact player when healthy but is returning from a partially torn meniscus and carries three years and $136.3 million, so any suitor must make a heavy commitment. DeRozan is cheaper, signed only through next season, and remains durable and productive, making him an attractive piece for contenders. Merlin senses Sacramento will prioritize youth, picks, and salary relief in any deal.
