The Sacramento Kings are looking to make some moves before the NBA trade deadline approaches in February. The team has DeMarcus Cousins who they are hoping develops into the star he potentially could be. They made a big move getting Rudy Gay to the team and now they are targeting one last trade to make a complete team.
The Kings are reportedly targeting Golden State Warriors shooting guard Klay Thompson if their pursuit of Andre Miller comes up short. CBSSports.com's Ken Berger reports that right now the Kings are the most aggressive team in talks for the Denver Nuggets star, but a setback could make Thompson their favorite.
Thompson will be a restricted free agent next summer and the likelihood that Golden State lets the young star walk away is slim to none. Right now, Thompson and Stephen Curry make up the best backcourt shooting tandem in the league. The 23-year-old is averaging 19.5 points and 3.3 rebounds this season while shooting 46.0 from the field. He very often sits open in the perimeter as a dangerous shooter.
Of course his expiring deal puts him at the top of the Kings' wish list. Berger reported that after acquiring Gay, the Kings intended to "swing for the fences" in the trade market. This would certainly be a home run if they pull it off.
Right now, Miller seems like the better pick. The Denver Nuggets are actively trying to shop the point guard and desperation will likely make him cheaper than Thompson will come. Miller's salary is favorable. He is set to make $5 million this season and his $4.6 million salary next year is not guaranteed. At 37, his asking price will be low.
Acquiring Miller is not necessarily the home run that the Kings were looking for, but if they want a point guard that can still be a top threat, he is a strong option. Thompson is likely going nowhere as the Warriors know a good thing when they see it.
Miller fell off Denver's radar after he had a public disagreement with head coach Brian Shaw. The Nuggets have disappointed so far this season and Miller was hoping for different results. He will want to be traded to a contender considering his age and the Kings might not be that for another year.
