Overview
- League reporting identifies Ellis as the Kings’ most likely trade departure, with one source describing a deal as “inevitable.”
- Interest now ranges from roughly 10 to 14 teams, with the Lakers, 76ers, Pistons, Raptors, Warriors, Knicks, Celtics, Timberwolves and Pacers among those who have reached out.
- Any acquiring team would get Ellis’s Bird rights, and he becomes extension-eligible on Feb. 9, shortly after the Feb. 5 trade deadline.
- Ellis said it feels good to be wanted as his name circulates in talks, while DeMar DeRozan said he is remaining professional as the team fields inquiries.
- A betting market gauge cited by Heavy Sports pegs Ellis at about a 78% chance to be moved, reflecting expectations rather than confirmation.