Shrinking role fuels Domantas Sabonis trade packages: Lauri Markkanen, Julius Randle, Reid could help everyone

Sabonis seeks a change

Sacramento earned its first win of the season Monday in Dallas. Darius Acuff Jr. scored 25 points on 21 attempts, while Domantas Sabonis made all four of his shots. Sabonis is averaging 8.3 attempts per game, his lowest figure since his rookie season in Oklahoma City.

ESPN's Tim MacMahon reported that Sabonis wants out of Sacramento. Reports that he dislikes Acuff appear inaccurate, but the article describes Sabonis as frustrated with the Kings organization.

Utah considers a fit

The Jazz have struggled defensively, particularly on the defensive boards, and another Jaren Jackson Jr. injury has added to their concerns. Sabonis is not described as a strong defender, but his rebounding could address one of Utah's weaknesses.

His passing and screening could also suit coach Will Hardy's ball movement. Sabonis could work in two-man actions with Keyonte George and create opportunities through short-roll play. A swap involving Lauri Markkanen could help Sacramento add a lower-usage offensive option alongside Acuff. The article says Markkanen's efficiency has declined over the past couple of years, while his contract runs one year longer than Sabonis's.

Brooklyn weighs another route

The Nets have limited reason to spend draft picks on stars, but the article argues Sabonis could help younger players develop. His screens and passing could benefit Mikel Brown Jr. and Egor Demin, and the proposed fit with Michael Porter Jr. is described as cleaner.

A deal sending Julius Randle to Sacramento is another possibility. Randle could take on a large offensive role with the Kings, though balancing his usage with Acuff could be difficult.

The article says Randle and Sabonis are both due to come off the books after next season. Sacramento could seek additional picks, while Brooklyn could part with a pick in the 20s, though the article says it is unclear how Randle's value might change afterward.