Credited from: APNEWS
In a significant move reshaping the NBA landscape, De'Aaron Fox is set to join the San Antonio Spurs as part of a three-team trade involving the Sacramento Kings and Chicago Bulls. This blockbuster deal, first reported by SFGATE, comes shortly after the Lakers traded Luka Dončić from the Mavericks in another high-profile trade.
The Spurs are acquiring Fox, who is averaging 25.0 points, 6.1 assists, and 5.0 rebounds this season while being a key player for the Kings. This move pairs Fox with rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama, giving San Antonio one of the league’s most formidable 1-2 punches. Fox's performance has earned him recognition as a clutch player and an All-Star, especially after he helped end Sacramento's 16-season playoff drought in 2022-23.
In exchange, Sacramento will receive two-time All-Star Zach LaVine, who is enjoying a strong season with averages of 24.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.5 assists. The Kings are also set to acquire multiple future draft picks, including three first-round selections in 2025, 2027, and 2031, bolstering their rebuilding efforts while reuniting LaVine with former teammate DeMar DeRozan.
This intricate deal also includes Sidy Cissoko, who will move to the Kings, alongside several other role players that will change teams. The complete package for the Kings consists of talented young players along with essential draft capital, further enhancing their future prospects.
The Bulls, in turn, will receive Kevin Huerter, Zach Collins, and Tre Jones, marking a strategic shift as they assess their team’s direction amidst ongoing struggles.
These trades underscore shifting power dynamics in the Western Conference as teams race towards the NBA playoffs. With the Kings at a current standing of 24-24, they aim for a return to postseason play, while the Spurs hope Fox’s addition will expedite Wembanyama's growth and their chances of qualification. This latest development is another reminder of an increasingly dynamic trade deadline.
For more details, check out the full coverage on AP News and USA Today.