Right now, Sacramento Kings fans are sitting in a state of unease and concern. They aren't sure which way the front office will move, and they frankly do not trust them because of multiple mistakes over the last few years.
They're hoping for any good news, and the latest rumors about Zach LaVine will please many. Instead of offering him a contract extension, the Kings sound ready to move on.
The Kings aren't willing to give LaVine what he wants—and that's a good thing
According to a recent report from Sam Amick of The Athletic, the Kings are not looking to extend LaVine's contract during the offseason. On top of that, they are open to the idea of trading him away, even though he's only been in Sacramento for less than a season.
What I'm hearing on the Kings as the draft ends, and free agency nears, at @TheAthletic https://t.co/FRQbIaNhF3
— Sam Amick (@sam_amick) June 26, 2025
There have been whispers of the Kings giving up on LaVine before, but these stories are building momentum at the right time. This report from Amick confirms that Sacramento might really make the move and get rid of LaVine and his heavy contract.
Amick states that the Kings aren't against spending big money on a player, but it won't be for someone like LaVine. They would much rather pay for someone who is younger and part of their long-term plans.
The Kings knew that LaVine would cost them a lot when they traded for him months ago, but they are now looking at his $96.5 million over the next two seasons and really considering their options. This is exactly what they should be doing. Instead of doubling down and holding onto LaVine and his major contract, they are seeing how they can cut ties.
A lot of fans said LaVine came with big risks, and he obviously hasn't panned out as expected. His average of 22.4 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.8 assists wasn't horrible, but it didn't move the needle, and the Kings flamed out before the playoffs. No wonder the front office isn't jazzed about spending nearly $100 million on him over the next two years.
Declining an extension and considering a trade is the right move for the Kings, but what will they do next? They have a bad habit of turning substantial players into disappointing returns, and people are worried they will do it again. Could they flip his contract for someone like Jonathan Kuminga, a young up-and-comer who the roster can be built around?
The Kings are doing their due diligence with LaVine and his contract, which is good. But will they actually convert that into a smart and strategic pivot point after such a disappointing season?