The Washington Wizards, Phoenix Suns and Chicago Bulls have shown significant interest in acquiring Domantas Sabonis from the Sacramento Kings in the past and remain on his short list of possible suitors, according to league sources.
However, Sabonis is prepared to remain in Sacramento for the foreseeable future. The 29-year-old center has heeded general manager Scott Perry’s call for patience amid the Kings’ rebuilding efforts.
Sabonis’ contract runs through the 2027-28 season with $94 million owed over the next two seasons. The magnitude of the financial commitment inevitably limits his trade market.
League sources say Sabonis has accepted Sacramento’s current direction. The center understands the franchise’s long-term approach under first-year general manager Perry.
Sabonis has been sidelined since November 19 with a partial tear of his left meniscus. He was scheduled to be re-evaluated within the next week.
The injury adds another layer of complexity to any potential trade discussions. Teams interested in acquiring Sabonis must account for his health status and rehabilitation timeline.
Sacramento has opened its roster for business amid a disappointing 6-19 start. The Kings sit last in the Western Conference and face questions about their veteran core.
Perry has signaled commitment to retaining draft picks for the rebuild. That stance could keep veterans like Sabonis, Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan and Malik Monk in Sacramento past the February 5 trade deadline. DeRozan is signed through 2026-27, while Monk has a player option ahead of 2027-28. Sabonis is signed through 2028.
The general manager made a plea for organizational patience regarding his long-term vision. Perry hopes retained draft assets will play a pivotal role in building a sustainable winner. The Kings have only moved up in the lottery four times with the most recent being in 2022 when they selected Keegan Murray at No. 2.