This is one outlet's own report from Yahoo Sports — the article as it was filed.
AIPROPX ReportYahoo Sports · 1h ago
Could Kings, LaVine Continue Partnership Past 2026-27?
Zach LaVine's future with the Sacramento Kings became a hotly discussed topic this offseason, with many conversations focusing on his next team, but rarely discussing whether he'll stay past this season.
Kevin Gleason, host of "The Drive Guys" show with Allen Stiles on Sactown Sports 1140, explored the possibility of the three-time All-Star remaining in Sacramento. It's based on LaVine's fond impression of rookie guard Darius Acuff Jr. and his good relationship with the front office.
ESPN's Vincent Goodwill said LaVine was impressed with Acuff and believes he can play alongside him. Gleason mentioned how the front office loves the 12-year veteran.
"If it works this year, I can see how -- maybe -- he might say, 'All right,' depending on what they're willing to give him," Gleason said. "I could see how he might end up staying here for much less money."
The 31-year-old will make $49 million next season after picking up his player option . As the highest-paid player on a team that is aiming to shed salary for financial flexibility, his name has headlined trade rumors often this offseason.
Sacramento entered this offseason committing $200 million to next season's roster. The team made multiple moves to get under the luxury tax, and LaVine is one of the biggest dominoes to fall.
He was limited to 39 games last season after undergoing season-ending surgery on his right pinky in February. It added to his extensive list of injuries that have plagued his career in the past several seasons.
The market for LaVine is limited, as few teams have the necessary salaries to acquire his services. The Detroit Pistons could have become a suitor, seeing as their 22-year-old center Jalen Duren wants a maximum extension and met with the Kings for a sign-and-trade opportunity .
Any trade scenario with Duren would involve LaVine's contract, but multiple reports signal Detroit is unwilling to part with its first-time All-Star.
Trade partners are likely dwindling, pointing to starting the season in Sacramento. According to ClutchPoints NBA reporter Brett Siegel, Sacramento isn't in a hurry to part with him at a discounted price to clear his large salary.
As the options for the 12-year veteran decrease, extending his tenure doesn't sound unrealistic. The Kings can go over the cap to sign LaVine to a much more team-friendly deal with his bird rights.
General manager Scott Perry can't afford to lose a 19-point scorer for nothing if his contract comes off the books. A future deal could look like $30 million annually because he's still a valuable contributor, averaging nearly 20 points on 40% from three.
LaVine would continue to mentor Acuff. His contract becomes easier to move, as interested teams would have players earning $20 million or more.
Ending the season in Sacramento isn't the worst-case scenario. Gleason's scenario could become a reality if both parties find a middle ground on LaVine's extension next offseason.
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