As the NBA trade deadline creeps closer, the Los Angeles Lakers find themselves in a familiar spot - searching for that one (or two) moves that could elevate their roster from playoff hopeful to legitimate contender. And while trade chatter always ramps up this time of year, there’s one potential deal that would not only address the Lakers’ current needs but also break a nearly five-decade drought: a trade with the Sacramento Kings.
That’s right - the Lakers and Kings haven’t made a trade since 1977. But if Sacramento decides to pivot toward selling at the deadline, the door might finally crack open.
A Reunion in the Making?
If the Kings shift into seller mode, the Lakers could look to reunite with a familiar face: Malik Monk. Monk’s lone season in Los Angeles helped revive his career after a rocky stint with the Charlotte Hornets. He parlayed that bounce-back year into a solid contract with Sacramento, where he’s continued to showcase his scoring punch and microwave ability off the bench.
Now, with the Lakers needing more offensive firepower and bench depth, Monk’s name makes a lot of sense. He’s a proven shot creator, a capable three-point shooter, and someone who already has chemistry with key Lakers pieces like LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
But Monk wouldn’t be the only target. The Lakers could also look to pry away Keon Ellis, a defensive-minded guard who’s quietly carved out a niche as a reliable perimeter defender and spot-up shooter. In today’s NBA, having a versatile guard who can knock down threes and defend multiple positions is borderline essential - and Ellis fits that mold.
What a Trade Could Look Like
Here’s one potential framework that’s been floated:
- Lakers receive: Malik Monk, Keon Ellis
- Kings receive: Dalton Knecht, Maxi Kleber, Jarred Vanderbilt, 2026 first-round pick, 2032 second-round pick
From the Lakers’ perspective, this is a win-now move. Monk gives them instant offense off the bench - a spark plug who can carry the scoring load when Luka Doncic or Austin Reaves sit.
Ellis, meanwhile, brings the kind of defensive versatility that championship teams lean on in the postseason. Pairing him with Marcus Smart would give the Lakers two high-level defenders to throw at opposing guards and wings.
And Ellis isn’t just a defensive specialist - he’s been a consistent three-point shooter throughout his career, making him a seamless fit alongside ball-dominant stars like Doncic, Reaves, or LeBron. He doesn’t need the ball to be effective, and that kind of low-maintenance, high-impact player is exactly what the Lakers need in a supporting role.
What’s in It for Sacramento?
For the Kings, this deal hinges on whether they’re ready to pivot toward the future. If they decide to retool, this package offers a mix of young talent and future assets. Dalton Knecht is a promising rookie with upside, and while he’s still a work in progress, he could be a valuable piece if Sacramento is willing to be patient.
Jarred Vanderbilt brings defensive toughness and versatility, and Maxi Kleber adds frontcourt depth with floor spacing. Throw in a first-round pick in 2026 and a second-rounder in 2032, and you’ve got a package that could appeal to a team looking to reconfigure its roster for the long haul.
Of course, the Kings could hold out for more - especially if Monk and Ellis continue to play well leading up to the deadline. But if Sacramento decides it’s time to shake things up, this trade package gives them a little bit of everything: youth, picks, and rotation-ready talent.
Why This Makes Sense for the Lakers
For the Lakers, this isn’t just about stacking talent - it’s about fit. Monk and Ellis would slot in perfectly behind Doncic and Reaves, giving head coach Darvin Ham more flexibility with his rotations and the ability to stagger lineups without sacrificing offense or defense.
It’s also about trust. Monk has already proven he can thrive in the Lakers’ system, and Ellis’ skill set complements the team’s core. These aren’t wild-card additions - they’re calculated moves that address real needs.
Sure, the Lakers could look elsewhere - maybe target size or forward depth instead. But in terms of backcourt help, this is the kind of trade that checks a lot of boxes. It gives them scoring, defense, shooting, and depth - all without parting with their biggest trade chips.
And if it means finally breaking that 48-year trade silence with Sacramento? Even better.
The Lakers are in win-now mode. If the Kings are ready to deal, this might just be the move that helps LA make a serious push in the West.