Sources: De'Aaron Fox bypasses extension, eyes '25 for larger deal

Sacramento Kings star De'Aaron Fox is bypassing a three-year, $165 million maximum extension this year as he and his representative, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports, position the All-Star point guard for a larger deal in the 2025 offseason, sources told ESPN on Monday.

Fox, slated to be a free agent in 2026, has been eligible to sign the three-year deal before the start of the regular season. By waiting for next summer, Fox would open up the possibility of a four-year, $229 million maximum extension with the Kings -- or a five-year, $345 million supermax deal should he be named to an All-NBA team.

Fox has made clear publicly and privately that he wants to be a significant part of the future in Sacramento. Kings owner Vivek Ranadive and franchise officials have worked closely with Fox and other key players on major decisions this offseason, including the acquisition of All-Star DeMar DeRozan.

Fox, 26, averaged a career-high 26.6 points last season and ranked second in total points in the fourth quarter, behind only new teammate DeRozan. Fox is set to make nearly $35 million this season and $37 million next season under his current deal. 

The Kings open their regular season at home Oct. 24 against the Minnesota Timberwolves.