The Sacramento Kings are operating under the impression that the playoffs are still within reach, despite sitting in 13th in the Western Conference at a lowly 20-36. After trading for Domantas Sabonis on Tuesday, the Kings have reportedly altered their stance on a potential Harrison Barnes trade. According to the latest inklings, the Kings now prefer to keep Barnes in Sacramento as they attempt to push for the 10th seed in the West and a spot in the NBA's Play-In Tournament, according to Marc Stein.

Stein's info comes in lieu of a previous report suggesting the Kings were targeting win-now players in exchange for Barnes in a trade deadline swap. Barnes has long been rumored to be available via trade, however, with just one day remaining until the NBA trade deadline, the Kings may opt to hold onto him.

Sacramento shockingly agreed to part ways with 21-year-old point guard Tyrese Haliburton in the deal to acquire Sabonis, making clear their intentions of pursuing a playoff spot in 2022. Despite offloading Haliburton and Buddy Hield, the Kings feel they have enough talent on the roster to compete for No. 10 seed, and it seems as if they now believe having Barnes in the rotation will better help them achieve that goal. The 29-year-old could be a nice fit alongside De'Aaron Fox and Sabonis, so perhaps the front office feels there's more value in keeping him on the roster, rather than looking to offload him and his $20 million contract.

On the year, Barnes is averaging 16.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.5 assists while shooting 45.7% from the field and knocking down the 3-ball at a career-best 40.3% clip.