New NBA Rumors on Domantas Sabonis-Darius Acuff Partnership amid Kings Trade Buzz

Sacramento Kings center Domantas Sabonis reportedly has a good relationship with Darius Acuff Jr. despite the fact that the rookie guard's arrival has cut into his scoring opportunities.

According to ESPN's Brian Windhorst, Sabonis has "praised Acuff several times and has gone to lengths to support him." Also, sources close to the Kings are saying Sabonis has "taken a liking to the 19-year-old, appreciates his immense scoring talent and enjoys the process of playing with Acuff as he learns the league."

That information comes on the heels of rumors that Sabonis was unhappy playing alongside such a high-volume shooter.

Earlier this week, Sean Deveney of Heavy.com reported that Sabonis was "not enthused" about teaming with Acuff and seeing his offensive role get diminished.

Selected seventh overall by the Kings in the 2026 NBA draft out of Arkansas, Acuff has established himself as an early Rookie of the Year contender with averages of 25.6 points, 7.0 assists and 3.8 rebounds per game.

Acuff is also attempting nearly 24 shots per game, while Sabonis' attempts per game sit at just 8.6, which is fifth on the team.

As a result, Sabonis is averaging just 15.1 points per contest, marking his lowest scoring average since the 2018-19 season with the Indiana Pacers.

While the 30-year-old Sabonis has never been known as a huge scorer—averaging over 20 points per game only once in his career—his shot attempts are his lowest since his rookie season in 2016-17.

With the Kings sitting at 1-7 and looking like they're nowhere near playoff contention, Sabonis continues to be the subject of trade rumors and speculation, as has been the case for the better part of a year.

Despite Sabonis and Acuff reportedly getting along, Windhorst expressed his belief that it would benefit both Sabonis and the Kings to find a trade partner at some point this season.

Windhorst suggested the Kings should do the same with fellow veterans Zach LaVine and Malik Monk as well since it would further clear the way for Acuff and other young players to get the playing time and opportunities they need to develop.