Domantas Sabonis Shrugs Off Trade Rumors, Focused on Healthy Return with Sacramento Kings

As the Sacramento Kings wrapped up the first week of training camp, the team is gradually building toward the 2026-27 NBA season with a fresh sense of optimism. Such is the nature of training camp each year: regardless of external expectations—which are notably low for the Kings—there's an inherent belief that fortunes might shift once the new season tips off.

Many around the league speculated that Domantas Sabonis would be wearing a different uniform after persistent trade rumors throughout the offseason. The Kings also made a strong push for restricted free agent Jalen Duren. Yet, no deals materialized, and the All-NBA center remains in Sacramento for another year.

During Monday's media day, Sabonis fielded questions about whether the offseason chatter had altered his perspective and if he could envision a long-term future with the Kings. He responded, "I can't control any of it. The injury helped. I was just focused on getting healthy. A lot of things are being said out there, but I have a great relationship with Scott [Perry]. I have great agents. I know everything that's going on. And I'm excited I'm here, I'm healthy, and tomorrow we have training camp."

When asked how he managed the distractions, Sabonis smiled and explained how simple it is to block out the noise and concentrate on basketball. "Easy. It's all made up," he said. "It's all out there. I don't know where you guys get most of it from. I'm there with Scott, with my agent, so I'm not on social media as much. So it's easy. I got my kids, and just focus."

Return to Form?

The Kings were openly exploring trade options for Sabonis this offseason, but the key takeaway from his comments is that he is healthy and prepared for the upcoming season. If Sacramento hopes to surprise the NBA, a return to All-NBA form by Sabonis would be a major catalyst.

Looking ahead, if Sabonis demonstrates chemistry with second-year big man Maxime Raynaud and the Kings exceed expectations, an extension and a continued partnership between the team and Sabonis could become a realistic possibility. It's a surprising turn of events considering that many assumed Sabonis would be traded by now or in the near future. However, it wasn't long ago that he was regarded as one of the top centers in the game. He'll need to prove it on the court, but that could certainly help the Kings improve upon last year's 22-win season.