Keon Ellis Drawing Heavy Trade Interest as Kings Field Offers from Across the League
With the NBA trade deadline fast approaching, Sacramento Kings guard Keon Ellis has become one of the most talked-about names on the market - and for good reason. The 6-foot-3 guard has quietly built a reputation as a defensive menace, and now, with Sacramento looking to shed some salary and possibly retool a roster that’s underwhelmed this season, Ellis finds himself at the center of a flurry of trade discussions.
According to league insider Marc Stein, no fewer than 14 teams have expressed some level of interest in acquiring Ellis. That’s nearly half the league circling the Kings' phone lines, and Stein even went as far as to call a trade “inevitable.” Sacramento is reportedly seeking a first-round pick in return - a price tag that speaks to both Ellis’ rising value and the demand for high-level perimeter defenders on cost-effective contracts.
Let’s break down some of the teams that have emerged as serious suitors in the Ellis sweepstakes:
Cleveland Cavaliers
Cleveland has jumped into the mix with purpose. As reported by Stein and Jake Fischer, the Cavaliers are among the latest teams to intensify conversations with Sacramento.
The fit makes sense - Cleveland has dealt with backcourt injuries and could use a versatile defender who doesn’t need the ball to make an impact. Ellis would bring energy, toughness, and a defensive edge to a team that already prides itself on that end of the floor.
Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers have also entered the conversation, and their interest goes beyond just what Ellis can provide on the court right now. According to reports, L.A. values Ellis not only for his defensive versatility and low-maintenance offensive game, but also for his contract situation.
With a modest $2.4 million free agent hold, Ellis wouldn’t clog their books this summer, giving the Lakers flexibility to chase bigger names in free agency while still retaining Ellis’ Bird rights. That’s the kind of strategic roster move that could pay off in both the short and long term.
Boston Celtics
The Celtics are another team keeping tabs on Ellis. Boston already boasts one of the league’s top defenses, but adding another high-motor, switchable guard to the rotation could give them even more lineup flexibility heading into the postseason. While they may not have a glaring need, contenders like Boston know the value of depth - especially when it comes in the form of a low-cost, high-impact player like Ellis.
Minnesota Timberwolves
Minnesota is reportedly in the mix as well. The Timberwolves have made defense a cornerstone of their identity this season, and Ellis fits right into that mold.
With his ability to guard multiple positions and play within a team concept, he could slot in as a valuable piece off the bench or even push for minutes in key matchups. The Wolves are clearly thinking about how to fortify their roster for a deep playoff run, and Ellis would be a smart addition.
New York Knicks
The Knicks are another team that could make a move for Ellis - and they have the cap mechanics to make it work. With Ellis making just $2.3 million this season, he’s an easy contract to absorb.
One proposed framework floating around includes Ellis and Doug McDermott in exchange for Guerschon Yabusele and some second-round picks. However, Sacramento is reportedly holding out for a late first-rounder, which could complicate things.
The Knicks have the assets - the question is whether they’re willing to meet that price.
Milwaukee Bucks
Despite their recent struggles, the Bucks are keeping an eye on Ellis as well. Milwaukee has been searching for ways to tighten up its perimeter defense, and Ellis could be a low-risk, high-reward option to help with that. He wouldn’t need to carry any offensive load - just bring energy, effort, and a defensive presence to a roster that’s still trying to find its groove under new leadership.
Indiana Pacers
The Pacers have also reportedly shown interest, and this isn’t the first time they’ve had Ellis on their radar. Indiana plays at one of the fastest paces in the league and could use a defensive-minded guard to balance out their offense-heavy backcourt. Ellis’ ability to defend in transition and stay attached to scorers on the perimeter would be a welcome addition to a team looking to make noise in the East.
As the deadline draws closer, Keon Ellis is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing under-the-radar names to watch. He’s not a household name - yet - but his skill set, contract, and defensive chops have made him a hot commodity. Whether he ends up in Cleveland, L.A., Boston, or elsewhere, one thing’s clear: the Kings have a valuable asset on their hands, and the bidding war is just getting started.