The Sacramento Kings appear set to retain Zach LaVine for at least one more season.
According to Sam Amick, LaVine will exercise his $49 million player option for the 2026-27 season rather than test the free-agent market.
“Zach LaVine and his agency are not leaving that money on the table. So, he’s not opting out,” Amick said during an appearance on Sactown 1140.
The decision comes as little surprise given the size of the contract and the uncertainty surrounding the NBA’s current free-agent landscape. By opting in, LaVine secures nearly $49 million in guaranteed salary while positioning himself to enter unrestricted free agency in the summer of 2027.
LaVine joined Sacramento as part of the blockbuster trade that reshaped the Kings’ roster and gave the franchise another proven scoring option alongside its core players. Known for his explosive athleticism and three-level scoring ability, LaVine remains one of the league’s most dynamic offensive talents when healthy.
For the Kings, LaVine’s decision provides clarity heading into a pivotal offseason. While Sacramento now knows the veteran guard will remain under contract for the upcoming campaign, questions still linger regarding the franchise’s long-term plans. An expiring contract worth nearly $49 million could become a valuable trade asset should the Kings choose to explore roster changes.
Keeping LaVine would allow Sacramento to maintain offensive firepower and continuity as the organization looks to reestablish itself as a contender in the Western Conference. Trading him, however, could provide flexibility and potentially reshape the roster around a different vision.
Regardless of the direction Sacramento chooses, LaVine’s expected decision to opt in removes one major question from the Kings’ offseason checklist.
Now the attention shifts to what comes next for both player and franchise as they prepare for the 2026-27 season.
