The Sacramento Kings may be listening to trade calls ahead of the NBA deadline, but one name that’s firmly off the table? Domantas Sabonis.
Despite interest from multiple teams - including the Wizards, Bulls, and Suns - the Kings have made it clear: Sabonis isn’t going anywhere. And for good reason. He’s been a foundational piece in Sacramento’s recent resurgence, and even with a current injury keeping him sidelined, the organization sees him as a central figure in their long-term plans.
Sabonis has been out since November 19 with a partial tear of his left meniscus. He’s expected to be re-evaluated soon, but until then, his focus is on recovery - not relocation. According to league sources, the 29-year-old big man is taking a patient approach, staying locked in with the Kings while he works his way back to full strength.
That patience makes sense when you look at the bigger picture. Sabonis is under contract through the 2027-28 season, with $94 million owed over the next two years. That kind of financial commitment naturally narrows the field of potential trade partners, but it also underscores how invested Sacramento is in him as a cornerstone of their roster.
Teams like Washington, Phoenix, and Chicago have reportedly shown interest in the past - and continue to monitor the situation - but for now, it’s more about them kicking the tires than the Kings actually entertaining offers. As one source put it, this is less about trade talks and more about teams doing their due diligence.
From Sabonis’ side, there’s no indication that a move is expected or even desired. He’s settled in Sacramento, both on and off the court.
His camp has emphasized a message of stability and patience, and he’s reportedly happy with his quality of life in Northern California. That matters, especially when you’re talking about a player of his caliber who’s already proven he can anchor a team on both ends of the floor.
The Kings, meanwhile, are still trying to find their rhythm without their All-Star big man. They dropped a 117-103 decision to the Timberwolves on Sunday, and it’s clear Sabonis’ absence is being felt. His playmaking, rebounding, and interior presence are tough to replicate - and Sacramento knows it.
Looking ahead, the Kings will take on the Trail Blazers on Thursday. Whether or not Sabonis is back by then remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: he’ll be wearing a Kings jersey when he does return.
So while the trade chatter may continue around the league, don’t expect Sacramento to budge. Sabonis isn’t just part of their present - he’s a key piece of their future.