2 NBA Stars the Kings Must Avoid in Trade Talks

The Sacramento Kings have headlined many trade rumors, but not every trade candidate would be an ideal fit. While many reports revolve around Toronto Raptors' Pascal Siakam, Chicago Bulls' Zach LaVine, and Washington Wizards' Kyle Kuzma, most trades happen with unexpected suitors.

The Kings reportedly refuse to give up standout sophomore Keegan Murray in any deal, as their top trade candidates are Kevin Huerter, Harrison Barnes, and Davion Mitchell. While that does not seem like a haul, a package of two of these guys, with a future first-round pick, would interest many teams.

There are many trade candidates out there that would make an immediate impact on Sacramento's title chances, but here are two players the Kings must avoid in any trade talks:

Andrew Wiggins

After being a vital piece in the Golden State Warriors' run to the 2022 NBA Championship, the Warriors assumed Andrew Wiggins would be the key to maintaining their dynasty status. After giving him a four-year contract worth $109 million, Wiggins has severely underperformed.

Wiggins is averaging a career-low 11.7 points per game on atrocious 41.8/29.8/68.9 shooting splits despite the Warriors desperately needing him to step up as they struggle. Golden State continues to fall down the ladder, sitting last in the Pacific Division and outside the playoff picture with a 17-20 record.

Shams Charania of The Athletic reports that everyone on the Warriors is available for trade except superstar Stephen Curry. Their top trade candidate would be Wiggins, who is on a horrible contract, but the Kings must ensure they do not fall into the trap.

While Wiggins has proven he can be a valuable player, he has not been anywhere near that level this season. With three years remaining on his deal, Wiggins will have a $30 million player option for the 2026-27 season. While Wiggins' archetype would be a great fit in Sacramento, his contract, combined with his current level of play, is a must-avoid for Monte McNair and the Kings.

DeMar DeRozan

While the Kings have been involved in rumors around Bulls' star shooting guard LaVine, they need to stay away from his teammate in Chicago, DeMar DeRozan. While DeRozan, 34, is an excellent veteran presence with a vast skillset, the six-time All-Star would not fit in Sacramento.

Many argue that LaVine would not fit in the Kings' lineup next to a ball-dominant point guard, De'Aaron Fox, especially with LaVine's lackluster defense, but DeRozan is a much worse option.

DeRozan is in the last year of his contract, making $28.6 million, and there would be no reason for the star wing to re-sign in the off-season if traded to Sacramento. If the Kings are in trade talks with Chicago, they should be targeting LaVine, Alex Caruso, and Patrick Williams over DeRozan.

DeRozan is a career 29.5% three-point shooter, and his defense is not strong enough to make up for his shooting weakness. While his contract is not the end of the world, DeRozan simply does not fit in Sacramento. If Monte McNair and the Kings think DeRozan would be a good fit, they should wait until free agency to target him.

The Kings must avoid giving up valuable assets for a 34-year-old DeRozan when there are much better options available on the market.

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