On the latest episode of Nets Fans You Know, NetsDaily writer Chris Miholen and I discussed several topics, including the trade rumors surrounding Kings center Domantas Sabonis. Reports have suggested that Sabonis is looking for a way out of Sacramento, with the Brooklyn Nets potentially emerging as an interested team.
In this companion article, I'll break down the thought process behind two Sabonis-to-Brooklyn mock trades I proposed during the episode and explain why each deal could make sense for both teams.
Why Would the Nets Want Sabonis?
If Sabonis is unhappy and wants to be moved, the Nets could put together a compelling package for the two-time All-NBA center. Brooklyn could offer Sacramento a collection of draft assets while giving Sabonis an opportunity to play in a major market alongside a familiar face in former Kings assistant coach Jordi Fernandez.
Sabonis would become the crown jewel and engine of Fernandez's offense, filling a role the Nets have struggled to establish: a true offensive hub.
He's a walking double-double, and his current averages of 15 points, 14 rebounds, and 6 assists per game would solidify Jordi's offense. Sabonis thrives as a facilitator from the elbow, creating opportunities for teammates while remaining an efficient scorer. He's currently shooting an impressive (but unsustainable) 67% from the field on 9 FGAs per game, with-in a system he would be playing in for the Nets.
There are defensive limitations that come with adding Sabonis, but his offensive production and playmaking could outweigh those concerns for me.
Financially, Sabonis carries a $45 million cap hit this season and $48 million next season. While that's a significant commitment, Brooklyn has the financial flexibility to absorb the contract. Even with Sabonis accounting for approximately 27% of the salary cap, his contract length would allow the Nets to address a major positional need without sacrificing their long-term financial flexibility.
MOCK TRADE 1: Michael Porter Jr. for Domantas Sabonis
Sacramento Kings receive:
Michael Porter Jr.
2027 First-Round Pick (Best of Houston/New York, Top-15 Protected)
2029 Second-Round Pick (Memphis)
2030 Second-Round Pick (Dallas)
2033 Second-Round Pick (Brooklyn)
Brooklyn Nets receive:
Domantas Sabonis
In this scenario, Sacramento acquires an expiring contract in Michael Porter Jr., a potential first-round pick in the 20s, and three second-round picks to replenish its draft capital.
The Nets would protect themselves with top-15 protection on the first-round pick while retaining the majority of their future draft assets.
From Sacramento's perspective, the biggest appeal is the financial flexibility. If the Kings decide not to flip MPJ to another team before the deadline, they could enter the offseason with significant cap space by letting his contract expire alongside the contracts of Zach LaVine and De'Andre Hunter (adding up to a combined 114M).
For a Kings team looking to reset its direction, the combination of financial flexibility and additional draft capital could make this an appealing return.
MOCK TRADE 2: Julius Randle for Domantas Sabonis
Sacramento Kings receive:
Julius Randle, Drake Powell
2027 First-Round Pick (Houston)
2033 First-Round Pick (Brooklyn, Top-18 Protected)
Brooklyn Nets receive:
Domantas Sabonis
This is the proposal I would expect to generate the most pushback. The Nets get their man, but at higher cost.
Brooklyn gets off Julius Randle's contract (including his $33 million player option for next season) and add Sabonis, by having to part with young prospect Drake Powell, Houston's 2027 first-round pick, and Brooklyn's top-18 protected 2033 first-round pick.
Sacramento receives additional draft compensation to take on Randle's contract, but the Kings also get a young defensive-minded prospect in Powell who could develop alongside Darius Acuff Jr. Powell's $3.5 million contract could be absorbed using one of Sacramento's traded player exceptions (TPEs).
Sacramento would save $14 million on its cap sheet, while Brooklyn would take on roughly $9 million in additional salary. But even after the deal, the Nets would remain $37 million below the first tax apron.
The biggest selling point for me is getting out of Randle's contract while bringing in a center who better fits Jordi's system.
Which Trade Would I Make?
If I had to choose between the two proposals, I'd say the Julius Randle deal.
Although the Nets give up more assets, the fit is immensely better.
You may not love these mock trades, I get it. But I think it's time for Sean Marks to capitalize on the years of flexibility and add a proven player that can help this team NOW.
Watch the latest episode of Nets Fans You Know for the latest trade rumors and why NetsDaily writer Chris Miholen thinks there's a "95% chance Micheal Porter Jr is traded by the trade deadline"!
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