As the NBA offseason is set to hit its full crescendo following the NBA Finals, it appears as if a key trade between the Hornets and the Kings is starting to pick up traction. Per a report by Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, there have been growing discussions about a trade involving Domantas Sabonis of the Kings and Miles Bridges and Josh Green of the Charlotte Hornets.
In the potential deal, the Hornets would get some bonus in exchange for Bridges and Green, as well as a first-round draft pick. But amid discussions, it appears that the Hornets are hesitant to part with draft compensation for the three-time All-Star.
“The Sacramento Kings and Charlotte Hornets had exploratory trade talks surrounding Domantas Sabonis, league sources told HoopsHype,” Scotto wrote. “One framework loosely kicked around included Charlotte’s Miles Bridges, Josh Green, and a potential first-round draft pick going to Sacramento in exchange for Sabonis, sources said. Charlotte has two first-round selections in the upcoming draft, including the 14th and 18th picks. However, Charlotte has been resistant to including one of those first-round picks thus far in a trade package involving Sabonis.”
Scotto also goes on to detail how the Hornets look to acquire a starting center and upgrade at the center position, while also noting a tie between Miles Bridges and current Kings general manager Scott Perry.
“It’s worth noting that when Sacramento’s general manager Scott Perry was an executive with the New York Knicks, the franchise considered drafting Bridges over Kevin Knox during the 2018 NBA Draft, league sources told HoopsHype. Perry and Bridges have Michigan ties as well.”
Domantas Sabonis joined the Sacramento Kings in 2022 as part of the trade that sent Tyrese Halliburton to the Indiana Pacers. Sabonis went on to become a key piece for the Kings, including forming a tandem with De'Aaron Fox that powered the team to the 2023 NBA playoffs. But the team hasn't been in the playoff conversation since that appearance, and Sabonis has dealt with significant injuries over the past year. This season, he played only 19 games and averaged career lows of 15.8 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 4.1 assists.
