Domantas Sabonis is being linked to the Detroit Pistons in a potential trade. On the eve of NBA free agency, the Pistons found out their star center Jalen Duren would meet with the Sacramento Kings.
What happened?
The Kings' center Domantas Sabonis was linked to Detroit shortly after the news about Duren's meeting with the Kings broke. The Athletic's Sam Amick reported that the most likely scenario would involve Sabonis heading to Detroit.
The key question now is how the Pistons see the situation, given the gap between them and Duren, and the chance to get a three-time All-Star in return. Sabonis has been in the NBA since 2016-2017, starting his career with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Domantas Sabonis' NBA Career
Sabonis played for the Indiana Pacers by his second year, averaging 16.3 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists. He was dealt to the Kings in the Tyrese Haliburton blockbuster deal five years ago.
Since joining the Kings, Sabonis has appeared in 319 games over five years, averaging 19.0 points, 13.1 rebounds, and 59.3% from the field. Yahoo Sports' NBA analyst Kevin O'Connor warned that Sabonis would be a terrible fit with Cade Cunningham.
Why it matters for Domantas Sabonis
O'Connor wrote that Sabonis is a shaky shooter, not a lob threat, and plays zero defense. He warned that it would be a huge step back for the Pistons if this trade happens. The Pistons are reportedly far away from Duren's asking price.
What comes next?
Duren is actively looking into potentially joining the Kings via sign-and-trade. While this idea is far-fetched at the moment, due to Detroit's desire to keep Duren, it's necessary to know that Sabonis is likely in a return package from Sacramento. The situation will unfold as NBA free agency begins.