The Sacramento Kings, led by former All-Stars DeMar DeRozan, Zach LaVine, and Domantas Sabonis, appear to have the talent for a playoff push. However, their shortcomings in the backcourt and the depth of competition in the Western Conference present significant challenges.
Unless the Kings decide to trade their veterans and commit to a complete rebuild, it’s difficult to see them surpassing teams like the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Clippers, Dallas Mavericks, or even the San Antonio Spurs.
However, a recent trade could help the Kings address their depth issues while bringing in quality talent. Lacking a true point guard and struggling on the defensive end, the Kings have failed to move beyond the play-in tournament, let alone secure a direct spot in the playoffs.
With disappointing moves such as the trade for DeRozan and the deal that sent De’Aaron Fox packing still fresh in fans’ minds, the Kings have a chance to course-correct under their new front office leadership. Bleacher Report’s Andy Bailey recently suggested a trade that would bring both established talent and promising young players to Sacramento.
Here’s a breakdown of the proposed three-team trade:
Warriors Receive:
- Corey Kispert
- Jonas Valančiūnas
- 2031 first-round pick from Washington (top-five protected)
Wizards Receive:
- Jonathan Kuminga (via sign-and-trade)
- Malik Monk
Kings Receive:
- Marcus Smart
- Buddy Hield
- Saddiq Bey
- Trayce Jackson-Davis
- 2030 first-round pick from Washington (via Golden State, top-20 protected)
This deal would give the Kings a mix of veteran leadership, shooting, and versatile depth while adding a future first-rounder. It also helps address their backcourt and defensive issues, especially with the addition of Marcus Smart.
The Kings acquire promising young players in Saddiq Bey and Trayce Jackson-Davis as building blocks for the future, along with a heavily protected first-round pick. Jackson-Davis could serve as a reliable backup to Domantas Sabonis, while Buddy Hield would strengthen the wing rotation. Most importantly, the Kings get a proven point guard in Marcus Smart—someone who can both defend at a high level and run the offense.
Considering the Wizards are expected to be competitive by 2030, Sacramento likely won’t have to wait long for that pick to convey, making this a move that balances immediate help with long-term value.
While Marcus Smart has never been known as a prolific scorer, the Kings already have proven offensive firepower in Domantas Sabonis, DeMar DeRozan, and Zach LaVine. Smart’s arrival would also allow players like Keegan Murray, Malik Monk, and Buddy Hield to thrive in more defined, impactful roles off the bench.
This trade may not instantly turn the Kings into championship contenders, but it strengthens the roster in key areas—particularly defense and depth—without requiring any major sacrifices.