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By Matt Audilet
Contributing Sports Writer
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Zach LaVine is opting into his $49 million player option with the Sacramento Kings, according to multiple reports on Monday.
With this move, LaVine avoids unrestricted free agency. However, he's reportedly expected to remain the topic of trade discussions leading up to the final year of his current contract with the Kings.
LaVine landed in Sacramento as part of a blockbuster trade with the Chicago Bulls midway through the 2024-25 season. The 31-year-old guard appeared in just 39 games for the Kings in 2025-26 after undergoing season-ending hand surgery in February — averaging 19.2 points per game during his time on the court.
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For now, LaVine is slated to be the starting shooting guard alongside recently-acquired No. 7 overall draft pick Darius Acuff Jr.
The Kings have an expensive roster heading into the 2026-27 season, despite finishing last year with a disappointing 22-60 record. 36-year-old veteran DeMar DeRozan is currently slated to earn $25.7 million, while Domantas Sabonis will rake in $45.4 million this coming season.
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Sabonis underwent season-ending surgery on the same day as LaVine. The Kings explored trade options for both of these players, but were unable to secure a deal before the deadline.
Sacramento could reportedly waive DeRozan if they're unable to find a trade partner before the 2026-27 NBA season.
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