The Sacramento Kings are exploring different scenarios for Keon Ellis as the February 5 trade deadline approaches. NBA insider Jake Fischer tweeted Friday that “the Kings are still exploring various scenarios for Keon Ellis, including trading veteran forward DeMar DeRozan and/or combo guard Malik Monk along with him.”
The 26-year-old Ellis has an expiring $2.3 million portion of a three-year contract worth $5.1 million, making him an attractive target for teams looking for cost-controlled talent. Minnesota, Indiana, Boston and New York have all reached out about the fourth-year guard.
DeRozan, 36, is in the second year of a three-year, $73.9 million contract, while Monk, 27, is in the second year of a four-year, $77.9 million contract with a player option for the final year. Including both veterans in a package could boost Sacramento’s returns.
Ellis has played 42 games this season, averaging 5.5 points, 1.3 rebounds and 0.6 assists over 17.6 minutes per game. He is shooting 39.5% from the field and 36.2% from three-point range, providing a reliable bench scoring option.
The guard’s contract flexibility allows a new team to immediately explore a contract extension that would transfer his Bird rights in a trade. This adds value for clubs above the luxury tax looking for a low-cost contributor.
Sacramento is reportedly hoping to land a late first-round pick if Ellis is moved. The Kings, who sit last in the Western Conference at 12-38, are evaluating every scenario to balance short-term competitiveness with long-term flexibility.
Ellis is widely considered one of the most likely players to be traded before the deadline. Teams competing for the playoffs and rebuilding franchises are keeping a close eye on Sacramento’s decisions.
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