Top 2 trades the Kings must make before the 2025 NBA trade deadline

The Sacramento Kings they have long sought their place in the NBA spotlight. After ending a 16-year playoff drought last season, expectations in Northern California are higher than ever. Powered by the dynamic duo of De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis, the Kings are determined to solidify their status as a legitimate contender in the fierce competition of the Western Conference. Now, 2025 NBA trade deadline fast approaching. That said, Sacramento’s front office faces the crucial task of addressing key weaknesses in order to increase its chances for a deep playoff run.

Looking to Elevate

The Kings won nine of the last 10 games. It’s a remarkable streak that highlights their potential. They are still actively exploring ways to improve their roster before the trade deadline.

Despite their recent success under interim head coach Doug ChristieSacramento’s shortcomings remain evident. Let’s remember that he replaced Mike Brown. Most importantly, the Kings lack size and depth on the wings. Of course, young talents like Keegan Murray and Malik Monk have shown promising growth. However, the team’s need for impactful additions is becoming increasingly clear as they look to maintain their momentum.

Regardless of their record, the 2024-25 season has been a rollercoaster for the Kings. A rough start raised questions about the team’s direction. However, Christie’s leadership sparked a revival. It turned Sacramento into one of the hottest teams in the league.

The overarching question, however, is revolves around Fox’s future. Will the team secure his commitment with a long-term extension this summer, or is a split on the horizon? Earlier in the season, as the Kings struggled, Fox’s name came up in trade discussions. Now, that decision appears to have been shelved for the offseason. However, it will inevitably shape how Sacramento approaches the deadline. In the short term, the team’s focus should be on strengthening their defensive capabilities to solidify their playoff ambitions.

Here, we’ll discuss the top two trades the Sacramento Kings must make before the 2025 NBA trade deadline.

Sacramento’s most glaring weakness this season is their defense. This is especially true in color. The Kings are at the bottom of the league in both scoring opponents in rebounding percentage and defensive rebounding. Acquiring Robert Williams III would provide a significant boost to their interior presence and overall defensive capabilities. Remember that he is a defensive specialist known for his elite shot-blocking and rebounding abilities. Williams could offer Sacramento a valuable change of pace Domantas Sabonis Replenishment Center.

Currently with the Portland Trail Blazers, Williams has dealt with recurring health issues. Still, he remains one of the best rim protectors in the NBA when he’s on the court. His skills in blocking shots, patrolling the paint and providing secondary rim protection could reshape Sacramento’s defensive identity. Pairing Williams with Sabonis would give the Kings the flexibility to deploy the Twin Towers lineup in certain matchups. They can also use Williams as a high-impact bench contributor to maintain defensive intensity when Sabonis is rested.

The Kings also have the wherewithal to make this move. They can potentially package contracts that highlight future draft picks as well. These are pieces that align with Portland’s rebuilding focus on young talent and long-term growth. Yes, Williams’ injury history is a risk. However, the potential defensive transformation he brings far outweighs the downside. At critical times in the playoffs, a player with Williams’ defensive prowess could be the key to advancing deep into the postseason.

Cam Johnson – Explosive shooter

Brooklyn Nets forward Cam Johnson has been a top target for the Kings all season. It is one of the most sought-after wings on the trade market. As such, acquiring Johnson would come at a significant price, but offers a huge upside for Sacramento.

Johnson’s skill set makes him ideal for the Kings’ system. A sharp shooter, he would thrive in open looks created by playmakers like Fox, Sabonis, DeMar DeRozan and Malik Monk. His ability to stretch underneath his three-point shooting would add another dimension to Sacramento’s already strong offense. Defensively, Johnson brings much-needed wing versatility and a high basketball IQ. He can provide a secondary option to ease the heavy defensive workload currently placed on Keegan Murray.

Adding Johnson would immediately balance the Kings’ roster. This would reduce their reliance on Murray in key situations and allow for more depth and flexibility. Its rare two-way influence is a critical advantage. This makes him one of the few trade options that can elevate Sacramento on both ends of the court. Not surprisingly, Johnson emerged as Kings GM Monte McNair’s top priority before the deadline.

Of course, buying Johnson will require significant investment. However, the move is in line with Sacramento’s ambition to solidify its status as a serious contender in the Western Conference. Johnson’s combination of shooting, defense and experience make him an invaluable addition to the Kings’ quest for playoff success.

Challenges and risks

As the 2025 NBA trade deadline approaches, the Sacramento Kings are at a crossroads. With an exciting core and a fan base hungry for sustained success, the team must take this opportunity to address its weaknesses and strengthen its roster. Acquiring Robert Williams III would bolster their defense and provide much-needed interior toughness, while bringing in Cam Johnson would elevate their offensive versatility and add crucial depth on the wings. These moves not only position the Kings for a deeper push into the playoffs, but also signal their commitment to competing at the highest level. For a franchise ready to turn potential into consistent excellence, these trades could be the key to unlocking their true championship aspirations.