The Sports Informant

By Scott Levin
Sports Informant Contributing Writer

Unlike the past few years, the Kings have some depth on their roster and could benefit from making a trade. The biggest trade chips the Kings have seem to be Kenny Thomas (an expiring contract that could offer immediate cap relief for a team), Andres Nocioni (recognized around the league for his gritty play) and Kevin Martin (while there is no rush to deal, he does have significant value on the market). It would still benefit Sacramento to see how Martin fits in when fully healthy, but the need for a big man could trump that plan. Many Kings fans have seen enough and are calling for a Martin deal.

The suggestions below are just ideas based on team needs. I am not endorsing any of these moves – just something to think about.

Kings trade Kevin Martin and Kenny Thomas to Phoenix for Amare Stoudemire.

The reasons: With news breaking that Phoenix is ramping up efforts to deal Stoudemire and a previous report of their interest in Martin, this does make some sense for both sides. The caveat is that Stoudemire, 27, is a pending free agent and to get him to stay, Sacramento would likely have to dish out a maximum contract. Concerns have been growing over Stoudemire’s declining numbers and health – an eye injury contributed to him missing 29 games last season.

Kings trade Kevin Martin, Kenny Thomas and Hilton Armstrong to Houston for Carl Landry and Tracy McGrady.

The reasons: Houston was linked to Martin in a previous report, and the guard is familiar with coach Rick Adelman. In Landry, the Kings would acquire a rising inside presence. The 26-year-old is posting a career-high 16.4 points per game off the Houston bench. McGrady would give the Kings a temporary replacement for Martin, and his contract could either be used to clear cap space in the summer or acquire somebody else before the deadline – Philadelphia was rumored to be willing to deal Andre Iguodala for McGrady’s expiring contract.

Kings trade Kevin Martin, Kenny Thomas and Andres Nocioni for Carlos Boozer and Andrei Kirilenko.

The reasons: Boozer is a free agent this summer, and Utah already has a replacement in Paul Millsap, who was just signed to a long-term deal. The Jazz reportedly are trying to shed salary, and this trade gets them out from under Kirilenko’s massive 2010 salary (almost $18 million). The Kings shed Nocioni’s longer deal but take a huge risk with Boozer, who could leave via free agency.

Whether Martin is moved or not remains to be seen. Regardless, a trade is almost a necessity to clear up a roster full of swingmen and low on talented big men. Post your ideas in the comment section below.