For the Sacramento Kings to have a good season, everything needs to come together. That includes Zach LaVine, whose shooting performance has been a huge positive for the Kings. If Sacramento wants even a chance at the post-season, LaVine has to keep his shooting on point.
Throughout the preseason, the bulk of the starting lineup for the Kings ran hot and cold on offense. Excluding the various injuries, their offensive performances were all over the map. Except for Zach LaVine, who was the most consistent starter the Kings had.
Through the four preseason games, his field goal percentage was 57% with an average of 16 points per game. He also shot 46% from beyond the three-point line. While LaVine contributed in a variety of ways, the quality of his offense in the preseason is impossible to deny.
Yet, people are still trying to deny him. Even in the Kings' opening night road loss to the Phoenix Suns, LaVine still scored 30 points and went 13 for 24. He might need to work on his three point shot, though, as he went two for 10. Outside of Malik Monk, none of the Kings had their threes dialed in.
LaVine must dominate the regular season, too
If the Kings want to have a chance at success during the regular season, LaVine cannot take his foot off the gas for even a second. He needs to keep raining shots every game from mid-range, from beyond the arc, and taking it to the rack. LaVine must be a perpetual offensive threat.
On top of that, LaVine has to continue to be a mentor to his rookies. Players like Nique Clifford have mentioned LaVine as a central figure in their development. In turn, Clifford will be a central figure in the success of the Kings, both now and in the future.
While this isn't exactly something he's known for, LaVine might also have to find a new gear on the defensive end of the court. The team needs that kind of presence from him to do better this season, and he put some real defensive effort in against the Suns. It's a step in the right direction.
Regardless, his main contribution will be his offense, something fans know he can deliver on. For the Kings to remain relevant this season, he will have to be more consistent, more prolific, and more on point than ever. This just might be the year of King LaVine.