Domantas Sabonis Waived by Sacramento Kings, Signs 5-Year, $170 Million Deal with Golden State Warriors

In one of the most shocking moves of the 2025 NBA season, the Sacramento Kings have waived their star center, Domantas Sabonis, following what reports are calling a “long protracted internal discussion.” Sabonis, who has been a key figure for the Kings, averaging an impressive 26.8 points per game this season, was released just 15 minutes ago, sending shockwaves across the basketball world. In an unprecedented turn of events, Sabonis is already finalizing a massive five-year, $170 million max contract with the Golden State Warriors, a deal that could rise to $200 million with incentives.

1. Domantas Sabonis’ Career and Impact with the Sacramento Kings

Domantas Sabonis, the 6’11” Lithuanian-American center, has solidified himself as one of the most skilled big men in the NBA today. Originally drafted by the Orlando Magic in 2016 before being traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder and later the Indiana Pacers, Sabonis’ skills have evolved rapidly since his arrival in Sacramento in 2023. Known for his incredible passing ability, basketball IQ, and versatile scoring, he quickly became the centerpiece of the Kings’ offense. This season, Sabonis has been averaging 26.8 points per game, showcasing his offensive prowess and reaffirming his status as one of the top centers in the NBA.

Sabonis’ ability to both stretch the floor and dominate inside has made him a unique player, one capable of impacting the game on both ends of the court. His ability to orchestrate Sacramento’s offense, finding teammates with precision passes while also finishing in the post, has been critical for the Kings’ success in recent years.

2. Why the Sacramento Kings Made the Decision to Waive Sabonis

The Sacramento Kings’ decision to waive Domantas Sabonis is undoubtedly one of the most perplexing moves of the season. Initial reports suggest that the decision stemmed from a series of internal discussions that revolved around the team’s long-term vision and their current roster construction.

While Sabonis has been one of the top performers for Sacramento, the Kings are also looking at retooling their roster. They seem to believe that they could allocate those resources more effectively by bringing in a different kind of player, perhaps someone who could better complement the team’s existing star, De’Aaron Fox. Additionally, the team might be looking to create more flexibility for future moves, especially with a heavy financial commitment tied to Sabonis’ max contract.

Though no official reasons have been provided by the Kings’ front office, this shocking decision signals that the team is ready to move in a different direction. For a team that has been building around Sabonis, this is a drastic shift in their approach.

3. How the Warriors Benefit from the Addition of Domantas Sabonis

In a stunning twist, Sabonis is now poised to join one of the most successful franchises in NBA history—the Golden State Warriors. This move has massive implications for the Warriors, as they add a dynamic and versatile player to their already star-studded roster. Sabonis, who has the ability to both score and facilitate, will bring a new dimension to the Warriors’ offense, making them even more dangerous.

At first glance, the pairing of Sabonis with Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green appears to be a perfect fit. Sabonis’ ability to space the floor and make precise passes will be an asset in Golden State’s fast-paced, ball movement-oriented system. His ability to operate as a big man who can facilitate from the high post will complement Curry’s off-the-ball movement and Thompson’s shooting ability.

Additionally, Sabonis’ rebounding prowess and defensive versatility should provide an upgrade to the Warriors’ frontcourt, an area they have been seeking to improve in recent seasons.

4. The Financial Side of the Deal: What $170 Million Means for Sabonis and the Warriors

Domantas Sabonis’ new contract with the Warriors is one of the most lucrative in recent memory. Worth up to $200 million with incentives, the five-year deal represents a massive financial commitment on the part of Golden State. The move puts Sabonis firmly in the upper echelons of NBA salaries, highlighting his value to the Warriors and their belief in his ability to elevate their team.

For Sabonis, this deal ensures his financial future while positioning him to compete for championships over the next several years. The Warriors, meanwhile, are taking a calculated risk, adding significant salary cap obligations to their books. However, given the team’s history of success, they are clearly banking on Sabonis’ skill set to push them into title contention in the coming seasons.

5. Public and Media Reactions to the Move

The news of Sabonis’ waiver and subsequent signing with the Warriors has been met with a mix of shock, excitement, and skepticism. Fans of the Sacramento Kings are understandably upset, as Sabonis has been a fan favorite and a crucial part of the team’s identity. Social media exploded with reactions, with many questioning why the Kings would part ways with such a talented player, especially at the peak of his career.

On the other hand, Warriors fans are ecstatic about the addition of Sabonis, with many believing that he could be the missing piece that propels the team back into title contention. The media has been abuzz with speculation about how Sabonis will mesh with the Warriors’ existing stars, and whether his arrival will spark a return to dominance for the Golden State franchise.

6. The Future Outlook for the Warriors and Kings

Looking ahead, the Golden State Warriors are poised to be a major contender in the Western Conference with Sabonis joining their ranks. The team’s championship pedigree, combined with Sabonis’ all-around game, makes them an even more formidable opponent. The key question will be how quickly Sabonis can integrate into the Warriors’ system and develop chemistry with Curry, Thompson, and Green.

For the Sacramento Kings, the future is uncertain. While waiving Sabonis opens up significant cap space, the team will need to make strategic moves to fill the void left by his departure. The Kings will likely shift their focus to surrounding De’Aaron Fox with players who fit their long-term vision, but they’ll need to make a splash in the coming years if they want to remain competitive in a stacked Western Conference.

Domantas Sabonis’ unexpected move from the Sacramento Kings to the Golden State Warriors is one of the most surprising events of the 2025 NBA season. As Sabonis joins the Warriors on a massive contract, the balance of power in the Western Conference has shifted. The Kings’ decision to waive one of their best players will be questioned for years to come, while the Warriors are hoping that Sabonis will be the key to a return to dominance. With the NBA landscape now dramatically altered, it will be fascinating to watch how these two teams evolve in the coming seasons.

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