One Western Conference playoff team has reportedly decided to end their pursuit of Toronto Raptors forward Pascal Siakam.
The Sacramento Kings were said to be one of three playoff teams linked to the 2-time All-Star.
On Friday, The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported that the Kings are pulling out of trade talks for Siakam.
The Sacramento Kings are deciding to pull out of the Pascal Siakam talks, sources say. Things can be fluid, but Kings-Raptors talks are now over. https://t.co/oQtwcbKtjF
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) January 6, 2024
Trading for Siakam comes with certain complications, which may have turned off the Kings. The Cameroonian star is said to be reluctant to sign an extension with any team that acquires him.
The 29-year-old forward is slated to be a free agent this summer and will likely seek a long-term contract that offers him the most guaranteed money.
Siakam is on pace to record his fifth straight year averaging over 20 points per game. In 34 games this season, the Raptors star has averaged 22.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per contest.
Siakam is still clearly playing at a high level. But the Raptors seem to be heading toward somewhat of a rebuild after trading away OG Anunoby last week.
Under-25 talents Scottie Barnes, RJ Barrett, and Immanuel Quickley appear to be the Raptors’ core moving forward. Moving Siakam would open up even more opportunities for their young trio.
