Familiar foe could offer intriguing trade package for Sabonis
Like Sacramento, it may be time for change in New Orleans. The team's current situation screams talented roster with playoff aspirations, but the results lean towards entering a rebuild. Injuries derailed the team's 2024-25 season, worse than ever before in the 'Zion era.' So, what now? Dejounte Murray's still recovering from a torn Achilles, Brandon Ingram was already traded, and Zion could be next. A big luxury tax bill lingers as Herb Jones and Trey Murphy III will soon seek contract extensions.
A deal with Toronto seems rather cut and dry, but a trade with the Pelicans could provide the Kings with two of the team's biggest needs: Shooting and guard depth. Below is a trade proposal involving both sides.
While this trade doesn't necessarily save New Orleans money (incoming salary of $8 million more), it does guarantee a veteran on a lengthy deal (three years left). McCollum will be playing on an expiring deal this year ($30 million), while Hawkins has two years left on his rookie deal (both team options).
After a career-best season from three (42 percent), the belief is higher that Sabonis could play next to a non-shooter like Zion. With Yves Missi entering year two, adding a versatile frontcourt player is key.
This trade does a number of things for the Kings. This would open up Sacramento's financial capabilities after next season while offering a short-term option in the backcourt in McCollum. Meanwhile, Hawkins' trademark sharpshooting ability gives the Kings a weapon off the bench. With Sabonis gone, the door's opened for Jonas Valanciunas to secure the starting center role. But Sabonis isn't the only King possibly on the move soon.