Kofi Inkoom
Last week, an Italian reporter claimed the Sacramento Kings forward, Sasha Vezenkov, was informed he was no longer part of the teams’ plans and would be traded.
Conversely, Eurohoops reported Vezenkov himself indicated he might not return for a second season, undecided between staying in the NBA or returning to Europe.
Despite feeling frustrated with his limited role off the bench as a rookie last season, sources close to Vezenkov have dismissed rumors of him considering leaving the NBA, labeling such reports as inaccurate.
According to Sean Cunningham of Fox 40, a source close to Vezenkov emphasized his commitment to honoring his contract terms with the Kings.
Sacramento reportedly wishes to retain Vezenkov, but there’s external interest in him as well. Given the Kings’ financial situation, especially if they re-sign Malik Monk and potentially cross the luxury tax threshold, they may consider trading him to alleviate costs.
Vezenkov signed a three-year, $20 million contract with Sacramento last summer, with his $6.66 million salary for the 2024/25 season fully guaranteed and a team option for $6.98 million in 2025/26.
Since Vezenkov cannot unilaterally terminate his contract and with his upcoming season salary guaranteed, the Kings are unlikely to waive him without a financial arrangement.
During his debut season with the Kings, Vezenkov averaged 5.4 points and 2.3 rebounds per game, shooting 44% from the field, 37.5% from three-point range, and 80% from the free-throw line in 42 games.
Hindered by a Grade 3 right ankle sprain that caused him to miss 22 games, Vezenkov struggled to secure a consistent spot in the team’s rotation even when healthy.