Since stepping into the role of general manager for the Sacramento Kings in 2025, Scott Perry has preached patience, long-term vision, and a steady hand in the face of pressure. Now, with the trade deadline fast approaching, we’re about to see if that philosophy holds strong when the clock starts ticking.
Perry took over after a turbulent 2024-25 season that saw the Kings unravel in ways that demanded a reset. With over two decades of experience across NBA front offices, Perry isn’t new to the grind of rebuilding a franchise from the ground up. His track record includes a significant stint with the New York Knicks, where he played a key role in reshaping that franchise - most notably helping land Jalen Brunson in 2022, a move that, while controversial at the time, proved pivotal in the Knicks’ resurgence.
Now, Perry’s challenge is to bring that same kind of stability and vision to Sacramento. He’s made it clear: this isn’t going to be a quick fix.
The Kings aren’t chasing splashy trades or short-term wins. Instead, Perry is focused on building a roster that fits a specific mold - young, athletic, defensively capable, and committed to playing unselfish, team-first basketball.
That’s easier said than done, especially with the NBA Trade Deadline looming at 3:00 PM EST on Thursday, February 5. Other teams are already making moves, and the pressure is mounting - from fans, ownership, and even inside the locker room.
Everyone wants to see progress. But Perry has been consistent in his message: he’s not making deals just to make headlines.
This is where things get tricky. The temptation to swing big is always there, especially when a marquee name becomes available.
But Perry isn’t looking to derail a rebuild for a quick fix. A hypothetical splash for someone like Ja Morant might generate buzz, but it could also throw the Kings off their developmental course.
Perry’s job is to resist that urge - to stay the course and only act when the right opportunity aligns with the long-term blueprint.
And if that opportunity doesn’t present itself before the deadline? Then the Kings may stand pat - and that might be the smartest move of all.
The draft is on the horizon. Free agency looms.
Several current players are set to hit the market. There will be chances to reshape the roster in meaningful ways, but those chances don’t have to come in February.
Perry’s challenge is to balance patience with progress, to tune out the noise and stay focused on the bigger picture. The rebuild in Sacramento won’t be judged by what happens at this trade deadline - but the decisions made now could set the tone for everything that comes next.