The Sacramento Kings are reportedly open to trading their star point guard De'Aaron Fox before the NBA trade deadline on February 6, 2025, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. This huge development comes amid a season of significant changes for the franchise.
Fox, 27, has been a cornerstone for the Kings since being drafted fifth overall in 2017. This season, he is averaging 25.2 points, 5 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game. Despite his individual success, the Kings have struggled collectively, currently holding a 24-22 record and sitting 10th in the Western Conference. The team recently parted ways with head coach Mike Brown after a 13-18 start, with interim coach Doug Christie leading them to an 11-4 record since then.
Fox's current contract, a five-year, $163 million max extension signed in November 2020, runs through the 2025-26 season, with a cap hit of $37.1 million for that final year. As he approaches free agency in 2026, Fox has declined a contract extension with Sacramento, signaling his desire for a new opportunity, potentially with a more competitive team.
The Kings have reportedly received numerous inquiries from teams interested in acquiring Fox. While specific destinations have not been confirmed, Fox is expected to attract several suitors, although he purportedly has a preferred destination ahead of his 2026 free agency.
As the trade deadline approaches, the situation remains fluid. The potential departure of Fox would mark a significant shift for the Kings, who have relied on his leadership and performance for the past eight seasons.