The Sacramento Kings and Charlotte Hornets have engaged in trade discussions centered around All-Star center Domantas Sabonis. While the Hornets are interested in acquiring the 30-year-old big man to bolster their frontcourt, a deal has not materialized due to differences in draft pick value and salary-matching constraints.
The Hornets are reportedly willing to send expiring salary to the Kings as part of a potential Sabonis trade. However, Sacramento is said to be seeking one of Charlotte’s 2026 first-round picks, specifically the 14th or 18th overall selections. Charlotte has made it clear it does not want to move either pick in a deal for the Lithuanian center.
Sabonis is under contract for the next two seasons, with a $45.5 million salary for the 2026-27 season and a $48.6 million salary for 2027-28. His contract makes him a high-value but expensive asset, and any trade would need to account for his cap hit, which is among the largest in the league.
The Hornets, who have struggled to find consistent production from their frontcourt this season, could benefit from Sabonis’ all-around game. He averaged 20.0 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game in the 2023-24 season. His ability to stretch the floor and handle the ball would give Charlotte more flexibility in its offensive system.
For the Kings, moving Sabonis could open up cap flexibility or allow them to acquire additional draft capital. But with a young core in place and a playoff contender on the rise, Sacramento may prefer to keep its star center unless it gets a significant return.
There are no trade-deadline pressures in this scenario, as the 2024-25 season has already concluded. Both teams could revisit the discussion following the 2025 NBA Draft, where additional assets might become available or more clarity could emerge on each team’s direction.
With no movement expected in the near term, the Kings will continue to evaluate their options for the 2025-26 season. The Hornets will monitor the trade market while preparing for their own roster adjustments ahead of the new campaign.
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