Nov 19, 2013; Sacramento, CA, USA; Sacramento Kings shooting guard Marcus Thornton (23) on the bench during warm ups before the game against the Phoenix Suns at Sleep Train Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

Just about every NBA scribe has mentioned the Sacramento Kings as one of, if not the most active teams in trade talks in recent weeks.

It’s understandable considering the front office is attempting to rid themselves of Maloof/Petrie pieces they’re not interested in. One such player seems to be Marcus Thornton, who has not played since November 17th receiving four straight DNP’s.

A microwave shooter, Thornton can certainly swing the tide of a game with his shot – both bad and good – but it’s his sub-par defense that has him nailed to the bench.

Head coach Mike Malone expects a particular effort on the defensive end from his players and Thornton isn’t exactly known for such, something the two parties clashed over during their tenure in New Orleans which eventually ended up with Thornton traded to the Kings when Malone was an assistant with the Hornets (now Pelicans).

Lacking attractive assets, the Kings know Thornton is likely their most beneficial trade chip and are looking to trade the guard, according to Yahoo Sports’ Marc Spears:

The Kings are actively searching for a small forward, sources said. They would love to trade guard Marcus Thornton and his contract.

Thornton is due $8 million for the current season and $8.5 for 2014-15.