Kings Star De’Aaron Fox Addresses Trade Rumors Amid Growing Speculation

Sacramento Kings star guard De’Aaron Fox has responded to swirling trade rumors, acknowledging that the team has been fielding calls and entertaining offers ahead of the looming NBA trade deadline on February 6. Fox, an eight-year veteran and former All-Star, admitted that the business of basketball remains unpredictable and that he wouldn’t be shocked if he were moved before the deadline.

“In this league, I expect the unexpected,” Fox said during a brief interview at Kings shootaround in Philadelphia on Wednesday, just hours before Sacramento was set to take on the 76ers. “I think crazier things have happened.”

Fox’s comments came in response to a growing wave of speculation about his future in Sacramento. Trade talks involving the Kings guard reportedly began gaining momentum earlier in the week, with ESPN 1320’s Damien Barling being the first to report that discussions around Fox were intensifying. The news quickly gained national traction when Shams Charania of ESPN posted on X (formerly Twitter) that the Kings were expected to “open up talks” regarding a potential trade involving their star player.

For Fox, the uncertainty is simply part of the business.

“That’s their decision to make,” Fox said of the organization. “I can’t tell them not to listen to offers, and I can’t tell them to listen to offers.”

A Changing Landscape in Sacramento

Fox has been the face of the Kings for several years, helping to lead the team back to relevance in a competitive Western Conference. He played a key role in Sacramento’s return to the playoffs last season, ending the franchise’s historic 16-year postseason drought. However, despite the Kings’ resurgence, trade speculation surrounding Fox has persisted, particularly as the team evaluates its roster construction and long-term ambitions.

The Kings currently find themselves in the thick of the playoff race, but their uneven performances have raised questions about whether the current roster is built for true contention. With the emergence of Domantas Sabonis and the continued development of young stars like Keegan Murray, Sacramento’s front office, led by general manager Monte McNair, may be exploring ways to reshape the team around a different core.

Fox, 26, is averaging impressive numbers once again this season, proving himself as one of the most dynamic guards in the league. His elite speed, scoring ability, and leadership have made him a staple of the Kings’ identity. However, his lucrative contract, signed in 2020 for five years and $163 million, makes him a valuable trade asset that could bring a significant return should Sacramento decide to make a blockbuster move.

Potential Suitors and Trade Scenarios

If Sacramento does decide to part ways with Fox, multiple teams would likely express interest in acquiring the talented point guard. Contending teams looking to upgrade their backcourt or add a dynamic scorer could see Fox as a missing piece to their championship puzzle. Some potential destinations that have been rumored or speculated upon by league insiders include:

Philadelphia 76ers: With uncertainty surrounding their guard rotation, especially after trading James Harden earlier in the season, the Sixers could be in the market for a dynamic guard like Fox to pair with MVP candidate Joel Embiid.

Miami Heat: The Heat have long been searching for a star-caliber point guard to complement Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo. Fox’s ability to push the pace and create his own shot would be an excellent fit in Miami’s system.

Los Angeles Lakers: The Lakers are always linked to big-name players, and with LeBron James and Anthony Davis still in win-now mode, adding Fox could significantly boost their chances of competing in a crowded Western Conference.

San Antonio Spurs: While not a contender, the Spurs could look to add a high-level point guard to pair with rookie phenom Victor Wembanyama as they build toward the future.

The Kings will have to weigh their options carefully, as moving Fox would signal a major shift in their approach. Trading him for a package of young players and draft picks would indicate a longer-term rebuild, while acquiring another established star in return could suggest an intent to remain competitive immediately.

Fox’s Legacy in Sacramento

Regardless of whether a trade materializes, Fox’s impact on the Kings has been undeniable. Drafted fifth overall in the 2017 NBA Draft, he quickly became the cornerstone of the franchise, enduring years of struggles before finally helping to break the Kings’ long-standing playoff drought in 2023. His leadership, work ethic, and loyalty to the team have made him a fan favorite in Sacramento.

While trade rumors have surrounded Fox in the past, this time, the speculation appears to have more substance. If the Kings ultimately decide to part ways with their franchise point guard, it will mark the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for both Fox and Sacramento.

For now, Fox remains focused on playing basketball and controlling what he can on the court. “I’m just here to play and help my team win games,” he said. “That’s all I can do.”

With the trade deadline fast approaching, the coming days will determine whether Fox will continue leading the Kings or if he’ll be donning a new jersey before February 6. One thing is certain—his situation remains one of the biggest storylines to watch as the trade market heats up.