The Sacramento Kings are exploring several scenarios for Keon Ellis as the February 5 trade deadline approaches. NBA insider Jake Fischer tweeted Friday that “the Kings are still sifting through various scenarios for Keon Ellis, several of which would include trading out veteran forward DeMar DeRozan and/or combo guard Malik Monk along with him.”
Ellis, 26, is on an expiring $2.3 million portion of a three-year, $5.1 million deal, making him an appealing 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 deal with a player option on the final year. Including either veteran in a package could increase Sacramento’s return.
Ellis has played 42 games this season, averaging 5.5 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 0.6 assists over 17.6 minutes per contest. 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, with his Bird rights transferring upon a trade. This adds value for clubs above the luxury tax looking for a low-cost contributor.
Sacramento reportedly hopes to acquire 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 roster flexibility.
Ellis is widely regarded as one of the most likely players to be traded before the deadline. Teams in playoff contention and rebuilding franchises alike are monitoring Sacramento’s decisions closely.
