Putting De’Aaron Fox in a San Antonio Spurs uniform is tantalizing.
Pairing Fox with rising star Victor Wembanyama would accelerate the trajectory of Wembanyama as an offensive and defensive force and the Spurs’ championship aspirations.
Though the Spurs are Fox’s preferred destination in a trade, a person familiar with the situation told USA TODAY Sports getting him to San Antonio depends on more than Fox’s wish. The person requested anonymity so he could speak freely about Fox’s future.
The Sacramento Kings have a say in the deal and want the best value in return, including a point guard replacement for Fox, who is 27 and has one season and $37 million left on his contract after this season. Fox, who averages 25.2 points, 6.2 assists, 5.0 rebounds and 1.5 steals, will be a free agent in the summer of 2026.
Potential landings spots for De’Aaron Fox in a trade
San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs want to maximize Wembanyama’s potential individually and for the franchise. Adding an All-Star caliber point guard in his prime would do that. The Spurs have first-round draft picks and players on the roster, such as Keldon Johnson and rookie Stephon Castle, that could make a trade palatable for the Kings.
Houston Rockets
The ascending Rockets would have to give up some of their young talent and first-round picks for Fox. Would Houston be willing to interrupt the good thing it has going with a major roster change?
Miami Heat
Fox is interested in playing elsewhere and so is Jimmy Butler. Simple enough, and it would take Miami time to convince Fox that that’s the place for him long term.
Orlando Magic
Fox, Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner would form a nice trio. This trade would be a bit trickier given Orlando’s payroll and players who are untouchable in a trade unless the Magic were willing to part ways with Kentavious Caldwell-Pope.
Brooklyn Nets
Brooklyn has draft picks and are always on the lookout for the kind of the star-driven deal that can help it become a contender. Ben Simmons’ expiring deal is attractive.
Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers would love a point guard like Fox who can create for himself and others, and he would take pressure off LeBron James and Anthony Davis on both ends of the court. How willing the Kings are to trade Fox to a divisional foe and without a starting point guard coming back provide likely sticking points.
Follow NBA reporter Jeff Zillgitt on social media @JeffZillgitt
