The Sacramento Kings are at a crossroads. They’ve made it clear they’re eyeing a rebuild, but so far, it’s been all talk and no action. Trade rumors have been swirling, but nothing has materialized - and if the latest buzz is any indication, that might be for the best.
According to recent reports, the Kings and Clippers had exploratory talks centered around a potential trade that would’ve sent DeMar DeRozan and Keon Ellis to Los Angeles. In return, Sacramento would’ve received John Collins and an additional, unnamed Clippers player. But the deal didn’t happen - and honestly, that might be a win for the Kings.
Let’s break this down.
What the Clippers were after
From LA’s perspective, this move would’ve brought in two high-impact players. DeRozan is still a bucket - a proven veteran who can generate offense in isolation, mid-range, and late-game situations.
He’s the kind of player who can tilt a playoff series. Keon Ellis, on the other hand, has emerged as one of the most intriguing young 3-and-D wings in the league.
He defends at a high level, hits the corner three with confidence, and plays with the kind of energy that every contender craves.
Getting both DeRozan and Ellis in one swing? That’s a serious upgrade for a team looking to bolster its rotation for a postseason run.
What the Kings would’ve received
Now, John Collins is no slouch. He’s an athletic forward who moves well without the ball, can stretch the floor, and brings a vertical threat in the pick-and-roll.
He’s also a capable rebounder and shot blocker, though his frame can leave him vulnerable in physical matchups down low. He’s a solid player - but he’s not on the same level as DeRozan or Ellis, especially not both.
And that’s where this proposed deal starts to fall apart for Sacramento.
Why standing pat makes sense
If the Kings are truly committed to a rebuild - or even just a retool - they need to be smart about asset management. Trading away a veteran scorer like DeRozan and a rising two-way wing like Ellis should yield more than a decent starter and a mystery role player.
Ellis, in particular, is gaining traction around the league. Multiple teams are reportedly monitoring his situation, and even if Sacramento holds onto him through the deadline, there’s a strong chance he’ll explore new opportunities in the offseason. That makes his trade value even more important - you don’t move a player like that unless you’re getting a return that sets you up for the future.
And with DeRozan, while his contract situation may limit the market a bit, his ability to generate offense and provide veteran leadership still holds serious value. If Sacramento moves him, it should be in a deal that brings back either a promising young talent or significant draft capital - not just a lateral move.
The Clippers' shifting priorities
It’s also worth noting that the Clippers’ own situation has changed. Earlier in the season, there was more urgency on their end to shake things up.
But since parting ways with Chris Paul, the team has found its rhythm. Wins have started to stack up, and the pressure to make a major move has cooled - at least for now.
Still, that doesn’t mean they’re out of the market entirely. If LA wants to make a deep playoff push, they’ll need to keep an eye on opportunities to upgrade.
But this particular trade? It wasn’t the one.
Bottom line
The Kings were right to walk away from this deal. DeRozan and Ellis represent real value - both now and in the future.
Trading them for a package headlined by John Collins wouldn’t have moved the needle in Sacramento’s favor. If the front office is serious about reshaping the roster, they need to hold out for offers that reflect the caliber of talent they’re giving up.
There’s still time before the deadline, and the Kings have pieces that could make waves. But patience - and the right deal - will be key.