As late January 2026 unfolds, the NBA landscape is transforming at a dizzying pace. With the February 5 trade deadline just days away, the league is electrified by storylines captivating a global audience. From blockbuster trade rumors to the poignant return of a legend, the drama is ensuring fans stay riveted.
Raptors Eye Sabonis to Fill Critical Void
The Toronto Raptors, holding a solid 29-20 record, are looking to solidify their position in the East. A persistent concern is the center position, with Jakob Poeltl hampered by back issues. Their search for a solution has reportedly led them to the most notable big man available: Domantas Sabonis of the Sacramento Kings.
As reported by Doug Smith of the Toronto Star, Sabonis has piqued Toronto’s interest. While the Raptors are reluctant to part with their depth, moving Poeltl’s contract would likely require attaching significant draft picks. Sabonis offers a unique profile: an elite rebounder, gifted passer, and powerful interior scorer, though he lacks elite rim protection and floor spacing. For a Raptors team envisioning a deep playoff run, he represents a major upgrade. With the Kings staring down a rebuild, a deal appears increasingly plausible.
Keon Ellis Emerges as League-Wide Trade Target
While the Kings may be sellers, one of their less-utilized assets is drawing remarkable interest. Wing Keon Ellis, despite limited minutes this season, has become a hot commodity thanks to his defensive tenacity and connective offensive skills.
The list of suitors is long and growing. According to reports from Jake Fischer and Marc Stein, the Cleveland Cavaliers are the latest to join a pursuit that already includes roughly 14 teams—with the Los Angeles Lakers among them. Ellis’s appeal is heightened by his small, expiring contract, making him a low-risk, high-potential acquisition for contenders. The pressing question is whether Sacramento can leverage this intense interest into a first-round pick. While that outcome would be surprising, the sheer volume of calls suggests it’s not outside the realm of possibility.
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