Ex-Kings Executive Accuses Agent Rich Paul of Manipulating Multiple Trades

Peja Stojaković, former Sacramento Kings assistant general manager and player, has accused NBA super-agent Rich Paul of manipulating and "blackmailing" teams during the February trade deadline that sent star guard De’Aaron Fox to the San Antonio Spurs. Stojaković claims that Paul orchestrated the trade to ensure his clients, Fox and Zach LaVine, ended up with their preferred teams, which limited the Kings’ return in the deal and potentially cost them a better package. The three-team trade sent Fox and Jordan McLaughlin to the Spurs, while Sacramento received LaVine, Sidy Cissoko, and multiple draft picks, with the Bulls also involved in the exchange. Stojaković argues that Paul’s control over the trade negotiations prevented Sacramento from exploring other offers and improving their return, a situation that has raised questions about the influence of powerful agents like Paul in NBA transactions. Rich Paul, founder of Klutch Sports Group, represents numerous NBA stars including LeBron James, Fox, and LaVine, and his role in trades has drawn scrutiny amid these allegations. The Kings now face offseason decisions about their roster after missing the playoffs, particularly needing to fill the point guard position vacated by Fox’s departure.