Zach BacharContributor IJanuary 31, 2025
Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images
De’Aaron Fox reportedly wasn’t the one to approach the Sacramento Kings regarding a trade.
According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, the Kings initiated talks with Fox’s representation surrounding a change of scenery. The star point guard preferred a trade during the offseason, though.
“League sources say Fox and his representation would have preferred to reach this point during the offseason, when teams around the league gain access to 2032 draft capital and carry additional roster spots,” Fischer wrote.
ESPN’s Shams Charania reported Tuesday that the Kings were “expected to open up talks” to move Fox.
When asked by reporters if he requested to be traded from Sacramento, the 27-year-old confirmed that he didn’t.
“No,” Fox said on Wednesday, via Chris Biderman of The Sacramento Bee. “You would know if I did.”
“That’s their decision to make,” he added. “I can’t tell them not to listen to offers or I can’t tell them to listen to offers.”
On Thursday, Fischer noted that the Kings’ decision was “inspired” by Fox’s “wavering commitment” to the team. He’s also been “unwilling to commit his long-term future” to Sacramento.
Fox has spent his entire career with the Kings since he was selected with the No. 5 overall pick in the 2017 NBA draft. In 44 starts this season, he’s averaging 25.1 points and 6.2 assists per game on 46.8/32.1/82.9 shooting splits.
It shouldn’t be too difficult for Sacramento to find an interested suitor, as Charania reported Wednesday that Fox has a “massive market.” Charania also listed the San Antonio Spurs as a team that the point guard would be interested in joining.
Fox is set to earn $37.1 million for the 2025-26 season, meaning that Sacramento isn’t required to deal him prior to the trade deadline and can wait until the summer.
The Kings appear to be motivated to move him before then, though.
