New general manager Scott Perry has taken decisive steps to reshape the Sacramento Kings following a difficult stretch last season, including parting ways with 2023 Coach of the Year Mike Brown and trading former All-Star point guard De’Aaron Fox. These moves reflect an effort to build a more balanced and competitive team heading into the new NBA season.
Central to Perry’s strategy is the acquisition of veteran point guard Dennis Schröder, who is expected to provide defensive toughness and leadership on the court, complementing the Kings’ offensively skilled core consisting of Zach LaVine, Domantas Sabonis, DeMar DeRozan, and Malik Monk. Schröder joined the Kings with a three-year, $45 million sign-and-trade agreement from the Detroit Pistons, highlighting the front office’s commitment to strengthening the lineup.
Zach LaVine Discusses Team’s Scoring Strength and Need for Cohesion
In a recent conversation with Chris Biderman of The Sacramento Bee ahead of the American Century Championship celebrity golf event, Zach LaVine reflected on his role alongside DeMar DeRozan as primary scorers for the team. LaVine emphasized the importance of an overarching team concept to ensure all players work effectively together.
Me and DeMar have a track record for being able to put the ball in the basket and do the things on the court that we need to,
LaVine said.
But I think we need an overall team concept to where everything’s working the right way. Sometimes roster construction helps out a lot with that.
—Zach LaVine, Guard, Sacramento Kings
LaVine pointed to Schröder’s versatility and experience throughout his recent season, which saw him play for three teams — the Brooklyn Nets, Golden State Warriors, and Pistons — while maintaining solid stats, including 13.1 points, 5.4 assists, and reliable shooting percentages over 75 games.
So having Dennis, a veteran point guard who’s been in a lot of places, can come off the bench, has started,
LaVine said of Schröder.
He can calm things down. He’s been in pressure situations. I think it’s going to help a lot.
—Zach LaVine, Guard, Sacramento Kings
Opponents React to Sacramento’s Unconventional Moves
Following the trade of De’Aaron Fox and the injection of Schröder into the roster, rival teams around the league have expressed confusion over Sacramento’s approach. The combination of offensive talent and defensive-minded additions signals a new direction that challenges expectations and could redefine the Kings’ playing style.
This restructured lineup aims to blend scoring firepower with improved defensive discipline, with LaVine and DeRozan expected to lead offensively while Schröder and Sabonis provide stability and versatility. Observers will watch closely to see if the Kings’ new configuration translates into on-court success as the season progresses.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does no one want Zach LaVine?
A. As we look forward to tonight’s Rising Stars Challenge, let’s remember last year’s game, where Zach LaVine was named MVP. Wishing Zach a speedy recovery!
Q. What surgery did Zach LaVine have?
A. LOS ANGELES (AP) — Zach LaVine, a key player for the Chicago Bulls, mentioned on Saturday that his recovery from surgery is going faster than expected.
He underwent the procedure on February 8. The operation fixed a nonunion Jones fracture where a piece of bone in his right foot was loose.
Q. Did Zach LaVine ever win a dunk contest?
A. When LaVine started with the Minnesota team, he won the Slam Dunk Contest and was included in the NBA All-Rookie Second Team. In 2016, he became the fourth NBA player to win the slam dunk contest two years in a row. In 2017, he was traded to the Chicago Bulls, where he played for eight seasons before being traded to Sacramento in 2025.
Q. What surgery is Zach LaVine having?
A. LaVine underwent surgery on February 8 to fix a nonunion Jones fracture. This means part of his fifth metatarsal wasn’t connected properly. The initial recovery time was estimated at four to six months. This schedule should allow the two-time All-Star to be prepared for training camp.