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Kings Likely to Trade Harrison Barnes Before Deadline

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  Published in House and Home on Tuesday, February 24th 2026 at 1:41 GMT by Jerry
      Locales: UNITED STATES, CANADA

Sacramento, CA - February 24, 2026 - The Sacramento Kings are all but certain to execute a trade involving veteran forward Harrison Barnes before the league's trade deadline, sources confirm. While Barnes has been a steady presence in the Kings' lineup since arriving in 2022, his expiring contract has made him a highly sought-after commodity, and the team appears intent on leveraging that value for future assets. The prevailing sentiment around the league, as echoed by sources speaking with Heavy Sports, is that the trade is "an inevitability."

Barnes, currently averaging a respectable 12.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists with a 44.7% field goal percentage this season, has provided consistent, if unspectacular, contributions to the Kings. However, with the team aiming to build for sustained success and potentially retool around their core of young talent, the opportunity to acquire draft capital in exchange for Barnes is proving too tempting to pass up. The Kings aren't shedding a liability; rather, they're strategically capitalizing on a valuable asset.

The primary driver behind this decision is Barnes' expiring contract. In a league increasingly focused on financial flexibility, expiring contracts are gold. They allow contending teams to create cap space for future free agency pursuits or accommodate significant mid-season acquisitions. This demand significantly elevates Barnes' trade value, with the Kings reportedly seeking a first-round draft pick in return.

Several teams are already positioned to make a run at Barnes, each offering a potentially different package. The Atlanta Hawks, currently navigating a complex rebuild while attempting to remain competitive, could view Barnes as a veteran presence to pair with their emerging stars. They have draft capital to spare and could see Barnes as a bridge player as they transition into a new era. The Charlotte Hornets, overflowing with young talent but lacking seasoned veterans, are also considered potential suitors. Barnes could provide leadership and a stabilizing force on a developing roster. Finally, the Orlando Magic, another team brimming with potential, are reportedly interested in adding a proven scorer and defender to their lineup, and Barnes fits that profile.

Beyond the First Round Pick: What the Kings Need in Return

While a first-round pick is the reported asking price, the Kings aren't solely focused on accumulating draft capital. The team is also exploring opportunities to acquire young players with upside - players who can contribute to the team's long-term growth. This suggests the Kings are looking for a combination of immediate impact and future potential in any trade package.

There's speculation that the Kings might be prioritizing players who can address specific positional needs. While the team is relatively solid at guard, depth at the wing and potentially a long-term answer at power forward could be areas of focus. The ideal scenario for Sacramento would be to land a young player who can contribute immediately while also possessing the potential to develop into a key piece of the Kings' future.

The decision to trade Barnes isn't without its risks. His consistent scoring and defensive versatility will undoubtedly be missed. However, the Kings' front office clearly believes that the benefits of acquiring future assets outweigh the immediate loss of Barnes' production. They are betting on their scouting department to identify a player or players who can fill the void and contribute to the team's long-term success.

The Wider NBA Landscape and the Value of Versatility

This potential trade highlights a broader trend in the NBA: the increasing value of versatile, experienced players on expiring contracts. Teams are prioritizing flexibility and the ability to quickly reshape their rosters, and players like Barnes, who can contribute in multiple ways, are in high demand. The Kings' ability to extract a first-round pick for Barnes speaks to the strategic acumen of their front office and their understanding of the current NBA market.

As the trade deadline approaches, expect the Kings to intensify their negotiations and field offers from multiple teams. The final decision will likely hinge on finding the right combination of draft capital and young talent. One thing is certain: the Sacramento Kings are on the verge of making a significant move that could shape the franchise's future for years to come.