Sacramento faces a high-stakes standoff with their highest-paid star, weighing a potential roster-clearing buyout against the offensive firepower needed to survive a brutal Western Conference race.
The Zach LaVine offseason saga is entering dangerous territory, as James Ham reported that the Sacramento Kings did not promise him a role and that he could be bought out before next season.
Sacramento is making a business decision after LaVine opted into his $49 million player option. His salary has played a significant role in a quiet free agency, as the team can only offer the veteran's minimum.
"They've been honest with [Zach LaVine] and said, 'Look, all bets are off if you opt in,'" Ham said on Thursday's episode of "Locked On Kings." "We, as a franchise, have to make a business decision in regards to you."
Buying out the 12-year veteran opens a roster spot, and most importantly, gets his contract off the books sooner rather than later. Ham argues the buyout should happen before the season starts; if the situation drags out, it becomes a disadvantage to both parties.
That would be a very bold move, as it would signify that the organization is truly done with the 31-year-old.
Trading their highest-paid player may be out of the question, too. Few teams have one salary or multiple to reach LaVine's number and acquire his services. ClutchPoints NBA reporter Brett Siegel also said they aren't in a hurry to move him at a discounted price.
Sactown Sports' "The Drive Guys" host Carmichael Dave believes LaVine could stay with the team. He said the front office loves him in Tuesday's live show, in which he explored a scenario that extended their partnership into the 2027-28 season.
Former Kings coach Jerry Reynolds called into Friday's live show and said he wants the team not to diminish a future asset. He argued the 2014 first-round pick earned his five-year, $215 million contract with the Chicago Bulls because he's a big-time scorer.
LaVine has averaged 20.7 points his entire career. He averaged 19.2 points despite missing 43 games, and opened the season with five straight 30-point games.
Sacramento needs his scoring to have a chance at winning games, especially with the new "3-2-1" lottery reform going into effect soon. His 42-point performance against the Miami Heat on Dec. 6 helped pick up the sixth win of the season.
Many paths lead to the 19-point scorer starting the season with the Kings. ESPN's Vincent Goodwill reported LaVine has been impressed with Darius Acuff Jr., which is a small encouraging sign.
Multiple reports about LaVine are conflicting throughout the offseason. One thing is certain: General manager Scott Perry must carefully handle this saga during a pivotal rebuild.
The 12-year veteran could join the growing list of former Kings this offseason. DeMar DeRozan was waived, Devin Carter was traded to the Atlanta Hawks and Russell Westbrook is unlikely to return.
