The Sacramento Kings are unlikely to offer veteran wing Zach LaVine a contract extension this offseason, according to multiple reports. LaVine, who became eligible for a new deal after being acquired, faces uncertain future with the team as the Kings prioritize younger players who fit their long-term plans.
Sam Amick of The Athletic explained that Sacramento
“prefer to pay a younger player who can be a long-term part of their picture.”
This stance signals a shift away from securing LaVine’s services beyond his current contract.
Background: LaVine’s Trade to Sacramento and Performance
Zach LaVine, 30, was obtained by the Kings in February through a three-team trade that notably sent guard De’Aaron Fox to the San Antonio Spurs. LaVine joined a Kings team loaded with experienced talent but aiming to find consistent success.
Before joining Sacramento, LaVine spent significant time with the Chicago Bulls after initially starting his career with the Minnesota Timberwolves. His stint in Chicago marked the peak of his professional output, averaging 24.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 4.3 assists over eight seasons, with efficient shooting percentages of 47.4 percent from the field and 39.0 percent from three-point range.
Since arriving in Sacramento, LaVine played 32 games last season and delivered strong individual performances, averaging 22.4 points per game while shooting 51.1 percent from the floor and an impressive 44.6 percent from beyond the arc.
Kings’ Recent Team Performance and Roster Composition
Despite LaVine’s efficient scoring, the Kings struggled to secure a playoff berth last season, finishing with a 40-42 record. This followed a season in 2023 where Sacramento made the playoffs for the first time since 2006, raising hopes for sustained success.
However, the Kings fell short again in 2024 with a 46-36 record and dipped below a .500 winning percentage last year for the first time since 2022. The team’s veteran core—including Domantas Sabonis, DeMar DeRozan, Jonas Valančiūnas, Malik Monk, and Keegan Murray—has been assembled to compete immediately, but the results have not met expectations.
Trade Rumors Surround Kings’ Veteran Core
With inconsistent results and a roster full of veteran players, speculation has increased that the Kings might enter a rebuilding phase. NBA insiders reported that executives are closely watching Sacramento’s key players—LaVine, Sabonis, and DeRozan—and consider some could be traded this offseason or before the 2025-26 trade deadline.
Michael Scotto of HoopsHype highlighted that the Kings’ trio is drawing interest around the league, suggesting possible moves remain on the horizon.
Among these veterans, Sabonis stands out as the team’s most valuable trade asset. Still, if the Kings are not planning to re-sign LaVine, moving him sooner may be logical because his contract only guarantees him through next season. Additionally, LaVine holds a player option for the 2026-27 season, allowing him to play out next year and then enter free agency without Sacramento receiving compensation.
LaVine’s Career Context and Potential Interest from Other Teams
Zach LaVine’s professional career has not been marked by extensive playoff success, as he has appeared in only four postseason games. Nevertheless, his scoring ability and accurate shooting make him a valuable addition for contending teams seeking offensive firepower.
Given his offensive skills and shooting efficiency, LaVine could attract interest from franchises aiming to bolster their lineups for a playoff push.
Implications for Kings’ Future Strategy
The Kings’ reluctance to extend LaVine underscores a possible shift in strategy toward building around younger talent rather than relying on established veterans. This approach points to a longer-term vision that could reshape Sacramento’s roster in the coming seasons.
How the Kings manage trades involving LaVine, Sabonis, and DeRozan will be critical in defining their competitive trajectory moving forward, as they balance immediate success with sustainable growth.