The Sacramento Kings lit the NBA world on fire by trading for two-time All-Star Domantas Sabonis. The Kings have been linked to Sabonis for months, but a deal was not imminent. However, they felt he was too good to pass up, which led them to send Tyrese Haliburton, Buddy Hield, and Tristan Thompson to the Indiana Pacers.
In return, they acquired Sabonis, along with Jeremy Lamb and Justin Holiday. Trading away Haliburton was shocking, as the young guard is projected to be a star.
The Kings will now build around Sabonis and De'Aaron Fox. While giving Haliburton may be a mistake, Sacramento still has a young core to build around. The team needs to continue retooling the roster in order to finally make a return to the NBA Playoffs.
The Kings have been rebuilding for a while, as they have not made it to the postseason since 2006. At the moment, they sit in 13th place in the Western Conference at 20-35. They still have a shot at making it to the play-in tournament, as they are only two games behind the no. 10 New Orleans Pelicans, who just acquired CJ McCollum.
Here is the next trade the Kings must make before the 2022 NBA trade deadline after acquiring Domantas Sabonis.
Kings next trade
Charlotte Hornets receive: Richaun Holmes and first round pick swap (worst)
Sacramento Kings receive: Kelly Oubre Jr. and first round pick swap (best)
With Sabonis coming in, dealing Richaun Holmes makes a lot of sense. With the Pacers, the fit of Sabonis and Myles Turner didn't work, and the Kings don't want to make the same mistake. Moving Sabonis to the center position would create better spacing and maximize Sacramento's lineup.
The Kings also acquire Kelly Oubre Jr., a solid forward in the midst of a rejuvenating season. Oubre is averaging 16.6 points per game while shooting 44.1% from the field and 35.1% from deep. He is also a phenomenal defender, making him an ideal fit next to Fox and Sabonis.
This trade also makes sense for the Hornets, who have been in the market for a center. Holmes would be an excellent fit as his lob ability would pair well with LaMelo Ball.
Holmes is averaging 11.8 points and 7.8 rebounds per game. He is shooting a high percentage from the field at 68.3%. The Hornets have depth at forward and could use an upgrade at center, with only Mason Plumlee holding the fort.
The Kings should look to make this trade to give them more depth and a piece to go with Fox and Sabonis. It could take the team to the next level and push for a play-in spot. With new players around him, Fox could have a resurgent second half of the season.
Fox is averaging 21.0 points and 5.2 assists per contest. His slashing ability is second to none, especially with his speed. Sabonis will be more of a post-up scoring big man, while Oubre will provide an all-around scoring game. He can shoot from behind the arc efficiently and finish at the rim.
While the Kings aren't ready for a championship run, they have their two cornerstones in place. Making another trade helps them create a better fit and sets them up for a brighter future.
It may take Kings fans time to get over trading Haliburton, but they still have chips in place to be good in a few years.
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