Domantas Sabonis appears to be getting closer and closer to leaving the Kings, as according to reports from across the Atlantic, the Lithuanian center wishes to continue his career with another NBA team.
The issue took on even greater significance following his decision to switch agencies over the summer. Sabonis left Wasserman and signed with CAA Basketball, with Aaron Mintz now serving as his agent. This move was interpreted by several NBA insiders as a sign that the 30-year-old center is looking for a new contract and, most likely, a new team.
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NBA insider Jake Fischer reported that there is intense speculation surrounding Šabonis’s desire to leave Sacramento, noting that his change of agent reinforces this assessment. The Lithuanian is eligible to sign a contract extension, but the Kings do not appear willing to make a new long-term commitment to him.
The situation becomes even more interesting given the direction the Kings have chosen to take. Sacramento is now moving toward a broader roster rebuild and, according to related reports, extending Šabonis’s contract is not among its immediate priorities.
The veteran big man is under a five-year contract worth a total of $216.6 million, with two years and approximately $94 million remaining until its expiration in the summer of 2028.
Samponis’s name came up several times in trade rumors during the offseason, particularly when the Kings were exploring ways to strengthen their frontcourt. Nevertheless, he has remained in Sacramento so far.
*photo source: AP
