The Sacramento Kings are heading into a pivotal 2025 offseason, with newly appointed general manager Scott Perry expected to bring significant changes.
Following a disappointing 2024-25 season in which they finished ninth in the Western Conference with a 40-42 record, the Kings missed the playoffs for a second straight year after previously breaking a 16-year drought.
According to reports from The Athletic’s Anthony Slater and Sam Amick, star forward Domantas Sabonis is reportedly looking to “seek clarity” from the franchise this offseason—potentially setting up the three-time All-Star as the key figure in what could be a major shakeup in Sacramento.
If Domantas Sabonis doesn’t believe the Kings are headed in the right direction, where might he land next? According to Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley, five potential trade destinations have emerged should Sacramento explore moving the three-time All-Star this offseason.
Buckley lists the Charlotte Hornets, Detroit Pistons, Memphis Grizzlies, Orlando Magic, and Phoenix Suns as top landing spots for Sabonis. Of course, any trade would depend heavily on what the Kings could get in return, given Sabonis’ value to the franchise. Here’s a look at what each of those teams might offer:
Charlotte Hornets
Coming off a 19-win season, the Hornets are expected to land a top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and could aim to accelerate their rebuild. Rather than trading away LaMelo Ball, Charlotte would likely look to pair him with Sabonis. Key trade assets could include Miles Bridges, Mark Williams, Josh Green, and future first-round picks.
Detroit Pistons
After finally winning their first playoff game since 2008, the Pistons may be looking to take another step forward. A pairing of Sabonis with rising star Cade Cunningham could be intriguing. Detroit’s trade package might revolve around Jalen Duren with multiple first-rounders or possibly Jaden Ivey.
Memphis Grizzlies
Memphis trading for Sabonis is a more unexpected scenario, but not out of the question. With Ja Morant’s future uncertain, the Grizzlies could either build around him with Sabonis or use Morant in a blockbuster deal. More realistically, a Sabonis deal might center around Desmond Bane, with young talents like Zach Edey, Vince Williams Jr., or GG Jackson II included.
Orlando Magic
The Magic have long been searching for a go-to offensive option, and Sabonis could fill that void. Teaming him up with Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner would form a formidable frontcourt, although shooting concerns would remain. Orlando’s best trade chips likely include Anthony Black, along with players like Cole Anthony or Wendell Carter Jr., plus future picks.
Phoenix Suns
The Suns face a difficult offseason with massive contracts tied up in Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal. While rumors continue to swirl about a possible Durant trade, a direct Sabonis-for-Durant swap seems unlikely. A more realistic scenario would require a third team to help facilitate a deal.
Ultimately, Sabonis’ market value is uncertain, and it’s possible no team values him as highly as Sacramento does. Unless a team is particularly eager to add a playmaking big man, any return for Sabonis might feel underwhelming from the Kings’ perspective.