The San Antonio Spurs may have only won 34 games in 2024-25, but they should continue to compete for NBA championships for years to come. A deal for Domantas Sabonis might help them get over the hump and into the NBA Finals sooner rather than later.
According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, the Sacramento Kings may finally blow things up, and Sabonis may want a trade. Sabonis topped the league with 61 double-doubles. He is an offensive force and the league’s closest thing to Nikola Jokic, the NBA’s top player.
However, the Kings have been unable to break out of mediocrity, as they just fell in the Play-in Tournament. Sabonis hasn’t indicated that he wants to go yet, but that choice could come shortly. Even if Sabonis does not demand a move, the Kings may be wise to trade him for a large sum. Here’s what a Sabonis-to-San Antonio deal may look like.
Spurs’ trade proposal for Domantas Sabonis
Spurs obtain Domantas Sabonis.
Kings get: Keldon Johnson, Harrison Barnes 2025 first-round selection, 2025 first-round pick (via Hawks), 2030 first-round pick (via trade with Timberwolves and Mavericks), two second-round picks
The Spurs may have finished with one of the worst records in the Western Conference this year, but they are expected to make the playoffs next season without making any additional moves. The team demonstrated moments of brilliance, with Victor Wembanyama leading the way. The former first-round choice was one of the most hyped-up prospects ever, and he was living up to expectations in his second year in the league before his season was cut short due to blood clots.
Wembanyama was on track to earn Defensive Player of the Year, and despite missing every game after the All-Star break, he led the league in blocks (176).
The Spurs also run their offense through the 7-foot-4 big man, who can do everything with the ball in his hands.
The Spurs were anticipated to make a postseason splash in 2025 after trading for De’Aaron Fox. The former Kings guard is one of the best point guards in the league, and his quickness and clutchness would have complemented Wembanyama had they finished the season together. Prior to Wemabnyama, Fox had a successful frontcourt partnership with Sabonis. While they may not be the best of friends, they’ve shown that they can work well together on the court.
Sabonis’ strong passing skills allows him to work the high post while also involving his teammates. His main weakness is defense, however it’s less of an issue when Wembanyama is waiting in the painted area. Fox, Sabonis, and Wembanyma might form one of the NBA’s top big threes. Furthermore, presumptive Rookie of the Year winner Stephon Castle has star potential, and the team would keep Devin Vassell in this transaction.
The Spurs have two first-round picks in the 2025 NBA Draft, but they are prepared to win now. Moving those picks, as well as a 2030 first-rounder, would be a wise decision if they can re-sign a perennial All-Star like Sabonis. His already-established chemistry with Fox is simply the cherry on top, presuming there isn’t more to their relationship. The Spurs and Kings are comfortable doing business together, so what’s stopping them from making a Sabonis trade happen?
Should the Kings deal Domantas Sabonis and commit to a rebuild?
On paper, the Kings appear to have a solid big three in Sabonis, DeMar DeRozan, and Zach LaVine. It did not work out this season, however, as the squad was eliminated from postseason contention after losing in the Play-in Tournament. The Kings have already sacked their general manager, so major roster changes are likely.
As it is, this core lacks championship potential. Sabonis suffers on defense without rim protection, which the Kings lack. The Kings were 25th in blocks per game. Furthermore, despite LaVine’s limited sample size in Sacramento (32 games), everyone knows his combo with DeRozan is poor.
The two only made the playoffs with the Bulls once, losing to the Milwaukee Bucks in five games in 2022. The squad must hit the reset button. Trades involving LaVine or DeRozan are also viable options, but Sabonis gives the most trade value. In this deal, the Kings acquire an experienced mentor in Harrison Barnes and a young Keldon Johnson.
Johnson is still 25 years old and has previously been a crucial member of Team USA, despite the squad being stacked with NBA All-Stars. Johnson’s stats went down this season, but he still averaged 22 points per game as recently as 2023.
In addition, the Kings would acquire three draft picks, two of which might wind up in this year’s NBA Draft lottery. The club may instantly begin their rebuild with some potential building pieces.
Leave a Reply