De’Aaron Fox’s future with the Sacramento Kings is currently a hot topic in NBA circles. According to league sources, the All-Star guard has opted not to sign an extension this year. Fox’s decision is influenced by his desire to see how the team’s roster develops for long-term success.
With two seasons remaining on his current contract, Fox aims to compete at the highest level and possibly secure a significantly larger max contract if he makes an All-NBA team. Given these factors, it’s worth exploring potential trade packages that could benefit both Fox and the Kings this offseason.
The San Antonio Spurs Need An Elite Point Guard
Spurs receive: De’Aaron Fox
Kings receive: Devin Vassell, Jeremy Sochan, No. 4 pick, No. 8 pick, 2025 first-round pick (via Hawks), 2028 first-round pick (via Celtics)
The Spurs had a challenging 2024 season, finishing with a 22-60 record despite Victor Wembanyama’s remarkable rookie performance, where he averaged 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 3.6 blocks per game. Wembanyama was named to both the All-Rookie First Team and the All-Defensive First Team, showcasing his defensive prowess and potential. However, the Spurs’ young roster lacked a true playmaker to maximize Wembanyama’s talents and overall team performance.
De’Aaron Fox, who averaged 26.6 points, 5.6 assists, and 4.6 rebounds per game in the 2023-24 season, would be a perfect fit for the Spurs. His ability to create offense, penetrate defenses, and facilitate plays would significantly enhance the Spurs’ backcourt and overall offensive capabilities. Pairing Fox with Wembanyama would provide the Spurs with a dynamic inside-outside duo, improving their chances of making a playoff push.
The Spurs have been linked to several elite guards, including Trae Young and Darius Garland, but Fox offers a blend of scoring and playmaking that fits well with Wembanyama’s defensive and offensive versatility. Acquiring Fox would address the Spurs’ need for a high-caliber point guard and provide a strong foundation for the future.
For the Kings, this trade offers substantial assets for both immediate and long-term success. Devin Vassell averaged 18.5 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, providing a versatile two-way player who can contribute on both ends of the floor. Jeremy Sochan, known for his defensive versatility, averaged 11.6 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.4 assists, adding depth and potential to the Kings’ roster.
The downside for the Kings is their lack of depth at the point guard spot. With only Davion Mitchell pulling the strings in the playmaking department, the Kings must use the cap space relieved in the trade to go and get a top-tier point guard in free agency or use draft assets to trade for a point guard they can trust. The inclusion of future first-round picks from the Hawks (2025) and Celtics (2028) adds valuable assets for future trades or draft selections in this case, giving the Kings flexibility and security as they rebuild around their young core.
If the Kings decide to find their future guard in the Draft, the No. 4 and No. 8 picks in the upcoming draft allow the Kings to select top-tier prospects. They could potentially draft guards like Rob Dillingham, who averaged 15.2 points and 3.9 assists in the NCAA, or Serbian sensation Nikola Topic, who averaged 8.0 points per game and 3.0 assists despite dealing with injuries. Additionally, Sacramento holds their own No. 13 pick, which provides further opportunities to strengthen their lineup.
This trade scenario benefits both teams significantly. The Spurs acquire a star point guard in De’Aaron Fox to pair with Wembanyama, forming a formidable duo that can lead the team back to playoff contention. The Kings receive a haul of young talent and draft picks, positioning them well for a bright future. With Fox running the show in San Antonio and Sacramento adding promising young talent through the draft, both franchises can look forward to significant progress in their respective rebuilds.
The Pistons Would Be Ready For The Next Step
Pistons receive: De’Aaron Fox
Kings receive: Cade Cunningham, Jaden Ivey, 2026 first-round pick, 2028 first-round pick
The Detroit Pistons finished the 2023-24 season with a 14-68 record, the worst in franchise history. Despite hopes of improvement, the team struggled significantly, prompting discussions about major changes to the roster. The Pistons have been active in trade rumors, notably showing interest in Zach LaVine, signaling their intent to bolster the roster and start competing seriously.
Acquiring De’Aaron Fox would be a bold move for the Pistons. Fox’s dynamic offensive game would fit well in Detroit, giving them a legitimate primary scoring option. His ability to penetrate defenses and create opportunities for teammates would complement the developing talents of players like Ausar Thompson and Jalen Duren, making Detroit a more formidable opponent. As the clear leader, Fox would help set the tone for a more competitive Pistons team.
For the Kings, this trade offers a massive return of young talent and future assets. Cade Cunningham, despite missing much of the 2022-23 season due to injury, showed significant promise in the 2023-24 season, averaging 22.7 points, 7.5 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game. His versatility as a playmaker and scorer would fill the void left by Fox and provide a new cornerstone for the Kings’ future.
Jaden Ivey adds another layer of young talent. With averages of 15.4 points, 3.8 assists, and 3.4 rebounds, he showcased his potential as a dynamic guard with his speed and scoring ability. Ivey’s development alongside Cunningham could form a formidable backcourt duo for Sacramento.
The inclusion of two future first-round picks (2026, 2028) gives the Kings substantial draft capital, allowing them to build a competitive team through the draft or use these picks in future trades to acquire more talent. This trade positions the Kings well for both immediate and long-term success, ensuring they have the assets needed to continue their rebuild effectively.
The Magic Need A Second Star To Pair Up With Banchero
Magic receive: De’Aaron Fox
Kings receive: Cole Anthony, Jalen Suggs, Mo Wagner, 2025 first-round pick (via Nuggets), 2026 first-round pick (via Magic), 2026 first-round pick (via Suns or Wizards)
The Orlando Magic had a surprisingly strong 2023-24 season, finishing with a 47-35 record and securing the 5th seed in the Eastern Conference. Their success was largely driven by the impressive performances of Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. Banchero earned his first All-Star nod and led the team with 22.6 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game. Despite their progress, the Magic struggled offensively, particularly in the playoffs, and lacked a true point guard to run the offense.
The Magic have been linked to various trade rumors and are looking to make a significant move this offseason to add another star alongside Banchero. Acquiring De’Aaron Fox would be a significant step in that direction. Fox would provide the Magic with an elite playmaker and scorer, helping to address their offensive struggles and take some pressure off Banchero.
Fox’s ability to drive the offense and create opportunities for teammates would make him a perfect fit in Orlando. His presence would help the Magic become more balanced and improve their playoff performance, making them a more formidable contender in the Eastern Conference.
For the Kings, this trade offers a significant return of young talent and valuable draft picks. Cole Anthony, who averaged 11.6 points, 2.9 assists, and 3.8 rebounds per game, is a dynamic guard who can contribute immediately. Jalen Suggs adds defensive tenacity and potential as a two-way player, averaging 12.6 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game. Mo Wagner provides additional depth and versatility in the frontcourt.
The inclusion of three future first-round picks (2025 via Nuggets, 2026 via Magic, and 2026 via Suns or Wizards) gives the Kings substantial draft capital, allowing them to build for the future or use these picks in further trades to acquire more assets. This trade positions the Kings well for both immediate improvement and long-term success, ensuring they have the resources needed to continue their rebuild effectively.
