Top 4 Shocking Trade Destinations for NBA Star De’Aaron Fox!

As the NBA trade deadline approaches, the focus has been mostly on Jimmy Butler, however, a new development on Tuesday may overshadow that storyline.

Recent reports indicate that the Sacramento Kings are now open to discussing trades involving their All-Star point guard De’Aaron Fox. It’s been speculated that Fox is dissatisfied with the team’s direction, especially after their failure to make the playoffs last season following a breakthrough in 2022-23. Although the Kings’ performance stabilized somewhat after they dismissed coach Mike Brown, Fox’s future with the team has been uncertain.

Fox, 27, has 1.5 years remaining on his contract, making him an attractive option for teams needing a skilled point guard. Intriguingly, he reportedly has a preferred destination when he becomes a free agent in 2026, complicating potential trade talks as teams weigh the benefits of acquiring him as a short-term rental versus a long-term asset.

This season, Fox is posting averages of 25.2 points, 6.2 assists, and 1.5 steals per game, shooting 46.8% from the field. Despite struggling with his three-point shot, Fox has demonstrated his prowess as a top-tier two-way player, which makes him a valuable asset for any team, whether they’re building or contending.

Acquiring him, however, won’t be straightforward. Given his status as a franchise icon since his draft in 2017, the Kings will likely demand a substantial return. His $34 million salary also poses a challenge for potential trade partners under the new financial regulations. Yet, players of Fox’s caliber and contract situation are rarely available, setting the stage for an intriguing lead-up to the February 6 deadline.

Here are four possible destinations for Fox.

San Antonio Spurs

Tax status: Below the first apron

The Spurs, currently not performing well in the league, have become a favored potential landing spot for Fox, especially since he hails from Texas. Playing alongside Victor Wembanyama could be a strong draw. San Antonio, with financial flexibility and significant assets, could meet Sacramento’s needs by offering a combination of immediate help and future prospects. However, whether they part with their promising rookie Stephon Castle remains a pivotal question.

It seems more plausible that the Spurs might opt to trade higher-salaried players and draft picks rather than letting go of Castle, and it’s unlikely the Kings would derail a potential deal over one player.

Proposed trade package: Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, 2025 Chicago Bulls first-round pick (top-10 protected), for Fox and Kevin Huerter

Miami Heat

Tax status: Above the first apron

With both Fox and Butler available, a swap between the two could be on the table. While the Kings would need to consider the risk, the Heat might see an opportunity to gain a long-term asset in Fox, who has connections to Miami through former teammate Bam Adebayo.

A larger, multi-party trade might be necessary if Butler is involved. However, if competing this season is Sacramento’s goal, acquiring Butler could be their best immediate option, potentially requiring Miami to add draft picks to sweeten the offer.

Proposed trade package: Jimmy Butler, Josh Richardson, 2029 Heat first-round pick (unprotected) for Fox and Kevin Huerter

Houston Rockets

Tax status: Hard-capped at first apron

The Rockets, seeing success this season, might be inclined to bolster their roster with Fox, who fits their timeline and could be the playmaking force they need. While financial constraints pose challenges, the potential benefits make it a worthy consideration.

Fox’s ability to create plays and manage the offense in critical moments would be a significant upgrade for Houston, potentially mirroring the benefits they receive from Fred VanVleet.

Proposed trade package: Fred VanVleet, Reed Sheppard, 2025 Rockets first-round pick, 2027 Phoenix Suns first-round pick (unprotected) for Fox and Kevin Huerter

Orlando Magic

Tax status: Over the cap, below the first apron

Orlando’s situation is similar to Houston’s, with tight spacing and a developing young core. Acquiring Fox could significantly enhance their offense and provide crucial defensive skills, fitting well within Coach Jamahl Mosley’s system.

For the Magic, this move could be seen as a bold attempt to make a significant leap, leveraging Fox’s abilities to elevate the team’s performance immediately.

Proposed trade package: Jalen Suggs, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Moritz Wagner, 2025 Magic first-round pick for Fox and Kevin Huerter