Sacramento Kings guard De’Aaron Fox is currently the most sought-after player in the trade market. Earlier this week, reports surfaced that the Kings are open to trade offers for the former All-Star, with a strong push to finalize a deal before the February 6th trade deadline. With the clock ticking, speculation is running high.

Fox has reportedly informed the Kings of his “preferred” destination—none other than the San Antonio Spurs. It appears the 27-year-old is not only eyeing a lucrative contract but also a legitimate title-contending team. Teaming up with Victor Wembanyama and Chris Paul in San Antonio seems like an appealing prospect for him. However, despite mutual interest from both teams, the trade has hit a major roadblock.

NBA insider Brian Windhorst revealed on ESPN’s Get Up that the fate of the Fox trade hinges on one key player the Kings want to acquire—Stephon Castle.

“The San Antonio Spurs are the team that everyone is watching. Stephon Castle is the key factor in that one. Castle is the key piece to getting that done, and [the Spurs] love Castle there,” Windhorst stated.

The Spurs, however, highly value the young guard and are unwilling to include him in any trade—unless it’s for a superstar. While Fox is an All-Star-caliber player who would undoubtedly elevate San Antonio’s performance, the franchise does not believe trading Castle for him is a worthwhile move. As a result, Sacramento’s front office may now be reflecting on a missed opportunity from the offseason.

Kings Passed on John Collins Due to “Low IQ” Concerns

Much like the Miami Heat, the Sacramento Kings are now scrambling to explore every possible trade scenario to secure a strong future post-Fox. However, had former head coach Mike Brown approved a move for Utah Jazz forward John Collins during the offseason, they might not be in this predicament.

According to ESPN 1320 Sacramento’s co-host Damien Barling, Brown vetoed a potential deal for Collins.

“There are players Mike said no to. There are players that Mike said he didn’t want. John Collins is one of them, and I was told there was a deal in place for John Collins during the offseason, and Mike said, ‘I don’t want him,’ Barling revealed. But why? That’s the first question that comes to mind.

 Barling explained that Brown dismissed Collins as a “low-IQ player.” While Collins is not without flaws, the 27-year-old Jazz star remains a highly skilled scorer at all three levels, averaging 18 points and 8.3 rebounds per game.

Now, with Doug Christie at the helm, Sacramento may be questioning whether they missed a crucial opportunity to strengthen their roster. As the trade deadline looms, the Kings must navigate these challenges carefully to secure a promising future—whether that includes Fox or not.