Zach LaVine has opted into his $49 million player option for the 2026-27 season, effectively ending trade rumors surrounding the veteran guard and keeping him with the Sacramento Kings for at least another year.
The decision provides LaVine with financial security and commits him to the franchise despite a season marked by trade speculation and team struggles.
LaVine's future with the Kings had been a subject of discussion for much of the past year. Reports indicated that Sacramento had explored trade possibilities involving both LaVine and All-Star big man Domantas Sabonis before the trade deadline, but no deals materialized. Prior to his player option deadline, the Kings also granted LaVine and his representatives permission to explore potential sign-and-trade scenarios, though no suitable destination was found.
This move places the Kings in a challenging financial position. According to reports, the team is now projected to be approximately $16 million over the luxury tax line, exceeding the first apron by more than $13 million and nearing the league's restrictive second apron. The organization may consider cost-cutting measures, such as utilizing the stretch provision on DeMar DeRozan's contract, to gain financial flexibility.
From a basketball perspective, LaVine's performance last season was impacted by injuries. The 31-year-old guard appeared in only 39 games before undergoing season-ending surgery for a tendon injury in his right hand. He averaged 19.2 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.3 assists, marking his lowest scoring average since the 2017-18 season and career lows in rebounds and assists.
Sacramento acquired LaVine from the Chicago Bulls at the 2025 trade deadline as part of a three-team deal. The team had hoped he would help revitalize the franchise, but injuries and a disappointing 22-60 season resulted in the Kings finishing with one of the worst records in the Western Conference.
While LaVine's decision ensures his presence on the roster for training camp, it does not necessarily halt all trade speculation. His expiring contract could become a more attractive asset if he returns to his All-Star form from his time with the Bulls, where he earned back-to-back selections in 2021 and 2022. For now, however, LaVine remains with the Kings, offering both parties an opportunity to improve their partnership.