Kings reportedly discuss trading Westbrook and other veterans! Several players have rifts with the head coach, prompting management to consider roster changes.

On December 16th, 2025, with a poor 6-20 start to the 2025-26 season, the Sacramento Kings are reviewing possible trades involving their veteran players. According to sources speaking to Spears, a rift has developed between the core veterans and coach Christie, which has pushed management to consider changing the lineup. Veterans such as LaVine, DeRozan, Sabonis Jr., and Westbrook are all potential candidates in these trade talks.

LaVine is earning $47.5 million this season and holds a player option worth $48.97 million for 2026-27; Sabonis Jr.’s contract runs through 2027-28 with a salary of $42.3 million, without player or team options. DeRozan and Westbrook’s salaries for this season are $24.75 million and $2.3 million, respectively.

The Kings’ salary cap situation intensifies the pressure to make trades. The current roster’s total salary reaches $184.66 million, exceeding the league salary cap by $56.2 million, leaving very limited room under the luxury tax threshold. Even with expiring contracts like Westbrook, Šarić, and McDermott, the team still faces an estimated $79.5 million salary gap for the 2026-27 season.

The Kings’ roster challenges extend beyond salary issues. While young players like Keegan Murray have shown promising potential, the veteran-centered lineup has consistently failed to mesh effectively with the coaching staff’s tactical system. This lack of cohesion is a major factor behind the team’s recent losing streaks and inconsistent performance.

The highest-paid veterans remain central to the team’s trade strategy. LaVine, DeRozan, and Sabonis provide scoring power and on-court experience; although Westbrook’s efficiency has declined, he still offers valuable playmaking skills. Trading one or more of these players would create flexibility for the Kings to build a new roster centered around rising stars like Murray.

Potential free agency developments are also key considerations for the Kings. LaVine and DeRozan will become unrestricted free agents after the 2026-27 season, while Sabonis and Malik Monk will enter free agency following 2027-28. Managing these players’ contract timelines will be a critical challenge for the front office as they balance current competitiveness with future salary flexibility.