Sean Cunningham provides updates on the Kings’ pursuit of Ingram, Markkannen

How close are the Sacramento Kings to making a move? Sean Cunningham says it might be a little while longer.

Sacramento Kings reporter, Sean Cunningham, joined Stiles & Watkins Tuesday to talk about the latest rumors surrounding former All-Star forwards Brandon Ingram and Lauri Markkanen. The trio discuss where the Kings stand right now, why it has taken so long for general manager Monte McNair to make move, and what a deal could look like.

All that and more on Sactown Sports.

Additional topics discussed include:

• Where do the Kings stand on the Brandon Ingram rumors?
• is there a fear monte McNair won’t make a move
• why a Lauri Markannen trade appears unlikely for Sacramento
• Is Danny Ainge playing hardball with Monte McNair?
• Are there any other names to watch for the Kings on the trade market?
• Are the Lakers trying to poach Alvin Gentry?
• Will Allen have to eat a Carolina Reaper?

Click here to watch and listen to the full interview with Sean Cunningham.

More on Brandon Ingram

New Orleans has two players–defensive wing Herb Jones and two-way threat Trey Murphy III–that could be in line for extended playing time in 2024-25, meaning the franchise could use forward Brandon Ingram to upgrade its roster in other areas.

Jones, who inked a four-year, $53 million deal before the 2023-24 season, and Murphy, who will enter restricted free agency next summer, have made Ingram somewhat expendable for the Pelicans.

The one-time All-Star averaged 20.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5.7 assists on 49/35/80 shooting splits over 64 games during this past season for the New Orleans team that ended Sacramento’s season in the eighth-seed Play-In game.

With Jones and Murphy–who came off of the bench in 34 of his 57 appearances–ready to take over as the Pelicans’ starting small and power forwards, it’s no surprise that New Orleans is looking to trade Ingram, who will be in the final year of his contract next season ($36 million).

Sacramento has been linked to Washington Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma and Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine in the early stages of the offseason, but adding Ingram–who is on an expiring contract–could be a more enticing option for Kings general manager Monte McNair.

By offloading Kevin Huerter and Harrison Barnes’ contracts, Sacramento could have more financial flexibility if Ingram walks in free agency following the 2024-25 season. Of course, a trade for Ingram could include draft compensation in the form of multiple first-round picks, something that the Kings would be unlikely to part with for a one-year rental.

Following the decision to trade Davion Mitchell and Sasha Vezenkov to the Toronto Raptors, Sacramento is now $14.7 million under the first salary tax apron, giving them some flexibility to bring back salary. If a deal can’t be made with the Pelicans, the Kings still have the resources to make a notable move and upgrade a starting five that needs a face-lift.

NBA Offseason Schedule

• Saturday, July 6th – Free Agents can officially sign contracts
• July 12-22nd – Las Vegas Summer League
• July 27-August 11th – 2024 Olympic Games
• Friday, September 27th – NBA training camps begin

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