It seems odd to be saying this given how hot Zach LaVine was shooting to start the season, but he has really fallen off. Naturally, that is an issue for the Sacramento Kings since he was a primary offensive threat. This drop in production could also hurt his value on the trade market.
Through the first six games of the 2025-2026 season, LaVine was one of the top shooters in the league. He was averaging 19.2 shots per game with a field goal average of 52.7%. He was averaging 29.5 points per game, five of which were 30 or above. He was on fire.
Before his recent 34-point performance, the previous six games he's played were a different story. His average shots per game were down to 12, and his field goal percentage was sitting at 41.7%. LaVine was only averaging 12.8 points per game, three of which were in single digits.
LaVine did miss a couple of games due to injury and hasn't been as consistently impactful since his return. Additionally, he is also getting fewer minutes than he was earlier in the season, having sat out the entire fourth quarter a few times. All of that is going to impact his numbers.
Changes in LaVine's game are bad for the Kings
As one might expect, the Kings' primary scorer not scoring as much has been a problem. The issue started before the last six games, and definitely contributed to Sacramento's eight-game slide. But the return of Keegan Murray and Dennis Schroder's increased bench production has helped.
Despite the slowdown in LaVine's numbers, the Kings recently managed to win two games in a row this season. Winning games is not the only concern created by Zach's drop off, though. The Kings are currently trying to trade him, and a decrease in numbers definitely makes that harder.
Considering LaVine is the highest-paid player on the roster, that contract already makes him difficult to move. If he's also shooting cold, his most marketable skill in the NBA by far, there are going to be even fewer potential trade partners. No one wants an expensive shooter who can't shoot.
Reportedly, the Bucks are interested in putting LaVine on the front lines with Giannis Antetokounmpo in the hopes of taking some pressure off the former MVP. Perhaps a change in scenery will help Zach find his rhythm again. As it stands right now, no one else seems to be asking about him at this price.