RealGM

The Sacramento Kings initiated a discussion with De'Aaron Fox that led to the team opening trade talks ahead of the trade deadline, sources tell Jake Fischer. Sacramento sent word to some interested teams as early as last week that it was open to such overtures. 

Sources also say that Fox and his representation at Klutch Sports would have preferred to address the situation during the offseason. There would have been more teams potentially interested in Fox and with more mechanisms to acquire him. The Brooklyn Nets could pursue Fox in the offseason, but they are unlikely to make an in-season trade for him.

Fox's original decision to decline a three-year, $167 million extension last offseason led to the current path where a trade has become an apparent inevitability. The original thinking was that Fox's decision to decline the extension was to bet on himself to make an All-NBA team and become supermax eligible, but he now has no intention on extending regardless of the outcome. 

The Kings are considered unlikely to receive the same type of trade package that the Cleveland Cavaliers sent to the Utah Jazz in 2022 for Donovan Mitchell.

Via Jake Fischer/The Stein Line

Interesting to know when it originally seemed like Fox & Paul instigated this whole thing. Probably was always going to go to SA or HOU in 25/26 anyway. May as well move him while they can get max value and get some true balance to their roster. It's in the best financial interest of the team to go that route, don't think Fox is a 60m/yr player....and that deal will severely limit them.

FVV (salary), Tari Eason/Jabari Smith Jr and 3 frp's for Fox.

Don't think Jalen Green would be an option in mid season. Maybe in the off season if he doesn't finally step up to his full potential.