The Sacramento Kings find themselves at a critical juncture, positioned as potential playoff contenders but lacking championship-caliber strength. After trading De’Aaron Fox to the San Antonio Spurs in a significant three-way deal involving the Chicago Bulls, the Kings acquired Zach LaVine, signaling a shift in their roster. This move has sparked speculation about the Kings’ future plans, particularly with Ja Morant trade rumors involving Sacramento Kings gaining attention amid the Memphis Grizzlies’ possible rebuild strategy.

The recent trade sending Fox away created a void that the Kings might fill by pursuing a star player like Morant. Memphis, struggling to meet expectations over the last few seasons, appears to be taking steps toward restructuring their team. This approach became clearer when the Orlando Magic traded for Desmond Bane, sending Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, and four unprotected first-round picks to the Grizzlies. This deal hints that other key players, including Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., could be on the trading block as Memphis aims to reduce expenses and reshape their roster.

Trade Possibilities and Roster Considerations for Sacramento

According to Bleacher Report’s Timothy Rapp, Sacramento could be a prime candidate to acquire Morant if Memphis decides to entertain offers for their star guard. Morant’s presence would provide the Kings with a significant centerpiece, basically replacing Fox after his departure.

Morant would certainly give them a star to build around, essentially replacing De’Aaron Fox after he was traded to the San Antonio Spurs in February,

Timothy Rapp wrote.

The Kings would probably try to get off of Zach LaVine’s contract in the process in an effort to make the money work, so this would be an expensive move for them, but they have all of their own first-round picks going forward along with San Antonio’s first in 2027 and Minnesota’s in 2031.

Rapp outlined a possible trade package Sacramento might propose, involving key young players and draft picks to secure Morant. One hypothetical offer could include Malik Monk, Keegan Murray, Jonas Valančiūnas, and numerous draft selections. However, Rapp notes that a core lineup consisting of Morant, LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, and Domantas Sabonis might present challenges in terms of team chemistry and fit.

An alternate path might be something like Malik Monk, Keegan Murray, Jonas Valančiūnas and a mountain of picks for Morant, though a core group of Morant, LaVine, DeMar DeRozan and Domantas Sabonis would be an odd fit,

Rapp explained.

This might require another move or two to make sense for the Kings, but rebuilding around Morant would be more logical than keeping the status quo intact.

Implications of Morant’s Potential Departure for Kings and Grizzlies

Many NBA players see their names linked to trades ahead of the upcoming draft, but the sending of Desmond Bane to Orlando came as an unforeseen development, amplifying the idea that the Grizzlies might fully commit to a rebuild. For the Kings—who have not embraced a full rebuild approach in recent years—this situation could provide an unusual opportunity to acquire a young star such as Morant.

While Morant brings immense talent, he also presents challenges. Despite this, pairing him with Domantas Sabonis could allow the Kings to construct a promising core. If Sacramento succeeds in orchestrating this trade, it might mark a significant shift from their current trajectory, potentially accelerating their pursuit of playoff success in the Western Conference.

The evolving landscape of the Kings and Grizzlies, influenced by recent trades and draft strategies, is expected to have a ripple effect on both franchises. Memphis’ willingness to part with stars like Morant signals a new direction focused on youth and development, while Sacramento’s interest reveals a desire to elevate their roster with an elite talent capable of anchoring their future.