The NBA trade deadline is getting closer, and the Los Angeles Lakers are once again part of serious trade talk. One proposal making the rounds involves a deal with the Sacramento Kings that would change the look of both teams without touching their main stars.The Lakers have been inconsistent this season, especially when the bench is on the floor. Scoring drops, spacing tightens, and defensive pressure fades. That has pushed the front office to look for rotation help that can contribute right away while still fitting around LeBron James and Luka Dončić.
What the Trade Looks Like
The proposed deal sends Malik Monk, Keon Ellis, and Devin Carter to the Los Angeles Lakers. In return, the Sacramento Kings would receive Dalton Knecht, Gabe Vincent, and Maxi Kleber.From a money standpoint, the deal works. Monk’s $18 million salary is balanced by Vincent and Kleber, while Knecht’s rookie contract helps fill the gap. No draft picks are included, which keeps the move simple and realistic before the deadline.
Why the Los Angeles Lakers Would Do It
Malik Monk (Image via NBA)
Malik Monk gives the Los Angeles Lakers something they lack: reliable bench scoring. He can handle the ball, create shots late in the clock, and run offense when the starters sit. He has already shown he can thrive in a sixth-man role.Ellis adds perimeter defense and shooting. He guards well, stays disciplined, and knocks down open threes at a high rate. Carter, while still developing, brings athleticism and defensive effort that fits a team needing younger legs.Knecht and Vincent have struggled to earn steady minutes, and Kleber’s injuries have limited his impact. From the Lakers’ side, this is a rotation upgrade without sacrificing core pieces.
Why the Sacramento Kings Would Consider It
Sacramento Kings’ backcourt is crowded. With De’Aaron Fox and DeMar DeRozan leading the offense, Monk, Ellis, and Carter often compete for limited minutes.Dalton Knecht offers scoring potential on the wing and is still on a rookie deal. Vincent provides experienced guard depth, and Kleber adds size and floor spacing in the frontcourt. The move also gives the Kings more flexibility moving forward without fully stepping away from the season.
Player Comparison
| Player | PPG (2024-25) | APG | 3PT% | Def RTG | Age |
| Malik Monk | 14.8 | 5.2 | 37.1 | 112.4 | 27 |
| Keon Ellis | 6.9 | 1.2 | 42.0 | 108.2 | 25 |
| Devin Carter | 4.1 | 1.1 | 28.6 | 110.1 | 23 |
| Dalton Knecht | 7.3 | 0.8 | 35.4 | 115.6 | 23 |
| Gabe Vincent | 3.1 | 1.2 | 28.0 | 113.8 | 29 |
| Maxi Kleber | 2.2 | 0.4 | 24.1 | 114.2 | 34 |
Who Benefits More?
The Lakers clearly gain more in the short term. Monk and Ellis immediately raise the level of the rotation and address clear weaknesses. Sacramento gets useful pieces and flexibility but gives up players who already contribute.Also read: NBA trade rumors: Toronto Raptors predicted to pursue $197,230,450 Memphis Grizzlies Champion to fill roster void and improve title oddsIf this deal happens, it won’t grab headlines like a superstar trade, but it could matter when games slow down and benches decide outcomes in the playoffs.
