Kings Open to Moving Keon Ellis as Lakers Seek Versatility for Playoff Push

Sacramento Kings management understands that they are unlikely to receive a premium draft haul in any potential trade involving Keon Ellis, but their expectations remain realistic. Rather than chasing a high lottery pick, the Kings are simply looking to secure a first-round selection, even if it comes with protections attached.

That mindset opens the door for the Los Angeles Lakers, who could realistically acquire Ellis by offering Dalton Knecht along with a future protected first-round pick. Such a deal would allow Sacramento to add youth and long-term flexibility, while giving Los Angeles a much-needed infusion of versatility as the team prepares for the postseason.

From the Lakers’ perspective, the cost is manageable. Knecht is no longer a core rotation piece, and future picks—particularly protected ones—are the currency often used by contending teams to address immediate needs without fully mortgaging the future.

Could Keon Ellis Help the Lakers’ Future?

While Ellis is far from a finished product, his profile is intriguing. The 24-year-old guard has never averaged more than 24 minutes per game in a single NBA season and has only eclipsed the 20-minute-per-game mark once in his career. Despite flashes of defensive upside, Sacramento has not fully developed him into a consistent, reliable rotation player.

Still, Ellis’ limitations may say more about opportunity than ability. His defensive instincts, lateral quickness, and willingness to guard elite scorers give him a skill set that is increasingly valuable in today’s NBA—especially for teams with championship aspirations.

The Lakers, in particular, are in desperate need of younger perimeter defenders who can stay in front of opposing superstar guards. While Ellis is not a lockdown defender, he is capable of forcing difficult shots, applying ball pressure, and wearing down primary scorers over the course of a game. At minimum, he would represent a defensive upgrade over the Lakers’ current options at the guard position.

Fit With Lakers’ Long-Term Vision

Looking beyond the current season, the Lakers are preparing for a significant transition. Future roster construction will revolve around Luka Dončić, who is widely expected to become the face of the franchise once LeBron James eventually steps aside.

Ellis fits that timeline well. He is on a cheap contract and would likely be open to re-signing on a team-friendly deal this summer, making him a low-risk investment with upside. His ability to contribute defensively without demanding the ball aligns with the type of role players typically needed around high-usage stars like Dončić.

For a team attempting to stay competitive now while laying groundwork for the future, Ellis represents a practical middle ground—useful in the present and potentially valuable in the years ahead.

Dalton Knecht’s Status Signals Shift in Priorities

Dalton Knecht once appeared to be a meaningful part of the Lakers’ long-term plans. During his rookie season, there was optimism that he could develop into a reliable offensive contributor. However, that perception has shifted significantly.

Under head coach JJ Redick, Knecht has struggled to earn consistent minutes, largely due to defensive concerns and a lack of trust in high-leverage situations. While the Lakers still recognize his talent, it has become increasingly clear that he is expendable, especially if his inclusion helps address a pressing need.

A move to Sacramento could benefit Knecht as well. With fewer win-now pressures and a clearer developmental pathway, the Kings could offer him the opportunity to rebuild confidence and carve out a defined role—something he has struggled to do in Los Angeles.

A Trade That Makes Sense for Both Sides

Ultimately, a deal centered around Ellis for Knecht and a protected first-round pick checks boxes for both franchises. The Kings add youth, draft capital, and flexibility, while the Lakers improve defensively and gain a cost-controlled player who fits both their playoff push and future roster vision.

As the trade deadline approaches, this type of pragmatic, low-risk move may be exactly what the Lakers need—one that strengthens their rotation now without compromising their long-term plan in the post-LeBron era.