The Sacramento Kings' two biggest problems are Zach LaVine and Domantas Sabonis. They have crazy expensive contracts, and they do not fit the direction of the rebuild. GM Scott Perry has said buyouts are a last resort, but the Kings might already be at that point with LaVine in particular.
A roster rebuild is a difficult and time-consuming process under the best of circumstances. And the Kings are most certainly under anything close to that. They are battling brutal salary cap constrictions as well as various free agency issues on top of how to play the draft.
There are a lot of moving pieces on Perry's desk right now, which complicates bringing his vision for the Kings' rebuild to life. He has consistently preached patience in this long-term process, which makes a lot of sense. A rebuild is neither easy nor quick, as Sactown fans are finding out.
LaVine and Sabonis are particularly big problems. It's become increasingly obvious that they don't fit on the Kings anymore, but they both have time left on their expensive contracts. The almost $100 million Sacramento owes them next season is a major part of their salary cap issues.
Perry has to make big room in the Kings' books fast
Even if the Kings choose to let free agents like Doug McDermott, Drew Eubanks, Patrick Baldwin Jr., Precious Achiuwa, and Russell Westbrook walk, that would hardly come close to solving their money problems. Plus, Sacramento is actively working towards keeping Achiuwa and Westbrook.
What the Kings need is a big move like getting LaVine or Sabonis off the roster, and it won't be Sabonis. He's got two expensive years left on his contract, making him hard to trade and an incredibly unlikely candidate for a buyout. Lavine, who has a player option, is another matter entirely.
Keeping in mind that LaVine is likely to take the option and stay with the Kings, Perry is going to have to buy him out. He needs the salary cap space desperately, particularly for the free agents he's trying to keep and for the rookies he's about to sign. It's not the best option so much as it's his only option.
LaVine doesn't have to let the Kings know his plans until the end of June. If he does choose to stay, Perry has to begin the buyout process immediately. Patience is important, but keeping that salary on the books going into the next season could financially derail the entire rebuild.
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