Kings trade De’Aaron Fox to the San Antonio Spurs, acquiring Zach LaVine from the Chicago Bulls in a significant three-team deal. This trade marks a pivotal moment for the Sacramento franchise as they shift their focus to new talent.
According to multiple sources, including ESPN, the Kings will send Fox to the Spurs while bringing LaVine to Sacramento. This transaction not only involves player movement but also includes a substantial asset exchange, highlighting the strategic maneuvers teams are willing to make.
In addition to LaVine, Sacramento will receive three first-round picks from San Antonio: the Hornets’ 2025 first-round pick (top 14 protected), the Spurs’ 2027 first-round pick, and the Timberwolves’ 2031 first-round pick. The Kings will also gain three second-round picks and Spurs wing Sidy Cissoko, further enhancing their roster depth for the future.
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The Chicago Bulls, in turn, will receive forward Zach Collins, guard Tre Jones, and the full rights to their 2025 first-round pick back from the Spurs, along with guard Kevin Huerter from the Kings. The Spurs will also acquire guard Jordan McLaughlin from Sacramento, illustrating the extensive collaboration across teams.
Fox, who is 27 years old, signed a five-year, $163 million designated rookie contract extension with Sacramento in 2021. However, the Kings opted to part ways with him after it became evident that he would not sign another extension.
Joining the Spurs means Fox will now play alongside first-time All-Star and Defensive Player of the Year candidate Victor Wembanyama. Currently, the Spurs are positioned 12th in the Western Conference with a record of 21-25, but Fox’s arrival could be the catalyst needed for a late playoff push. They are just two games away from the final play-in spot as of Sunday evening.
Selected as the No. 5 pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, Fox made a notable impact during his eight seasons with the Kings. He was voted an All-Star once and earned a spot on the All-NBA Third Team for the 2022-23 season, showcasing his growth as a player.
During his tenure in Sacramento, Fox averaged 21.5 points, 6.1 assists, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game over 514 games. Notably, he concluded the 2023-24 season leading the league in steals, a testament to his defensive prowess.
LaVine’s addition to the Kings aims to mitigate the impact of losing Fox. Currently enjoying a strong season, LaVine is averaging 24 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game, making him a valuable asset for Sacramento.
For the Bulls, this trade signals the beginning of a rebuilding phase. Chicago has struggled this season, now sitting at 21-29, and while they are in 10th place in the Eastern Conference, this trade positions them to potentially secure the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, likely eyeing Duke standout Cooper Flagg.
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