Kings’ Struggles Sparking Roster Shake-Up Chatter, Including De’Aaron Fox

According to Shelburne’s sources, Sacramento’s front office — led by GM Monte McNair, assistant GM Wes Wilcox, team president Matina Kolokotronis, and owner Vivek Ranadive — considered a variety of options, ranging from smaller trades to larger moves involving big-name players like Chicago’s Zach LaVine, New Orleans’ Brandon Ingram, Brooklyn’s Cam Thomas, and Washington’s Kyle Kuzma.

The Kings’ struggles came to a head during a brutal 0-5 homestand, and it was in the midst of this losing streak that the decision to part ways with 2023 Coach of the Year Mike Brown was made.

Despite the team’s recent struggles, sources told Shelburne that no one within the organization wanted to fire Brown, with one Kings insider emphasizing that “he’s a good coach” and that the franchise had a deep respect for him.

However, after multiple meetings and calls — some of which included high-ranking executives and ownership — the decision was made.

“Until the very last moment we were trying to make it work,” said one Kings source to Shelburne.

The timing and execution of the move drew criticism, especially considering that McNair informed Brown of the firing while the coach was en route to a team flight to Los Angeles.

Notably, De’Aaron Fox, DeMar DeRozan, and Domantas Sabonis were not consulted about the decision beforehand. Following the firing, McNair and Wilcox reached out to players to inform them of the news.

Shelburne’s report also shed light on one key factor that could’ve contributed to Brown’s dismissal — sources within the team indicated that some players grew frustrated with Brown’s public critiques, particularly his frequent post-game criticisms.

While Fox and Brown’s relationship wasn’t contentious, with Fox telling Shelburne that “me and Mike have never even had an argument,” the perception that there was discord could have added to the mounting pressure.

• Now, speculation around the Kings’ front office and coaching change continues, with Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report noting some “grumblings” within NBA circles suggesting that Fox may ask for a trade before the February 6 deadline. Though there have been no indications of a formal request yet, Pincus proposed a potential NBA trade scenario that could send Fox to the Houston Rockets.
• Meanwhile, rookie guard Devin Carter, who made his G League debut with the Stockton Kings on Saturday, is expected to make his season debut for Sacramento soon after recovering from offseason shoulder surgery. Carter’s return could provide some much-needed depth for a team in transition. However, all eyes will be on whether further moves materialize as the Kings continue to evaluate their roster and coaching staff amidst a turbulent season.

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