Kings shut down LaVine buyout talk ahead of final contract year

Sacramento Kings have no plans to pursue a buyout with Zach LaVine, reaffirming their stance amid fresh offseason rumors. According to The Sacramento Bee, the franchise fully expects LaVine to report for the 2026‑27 season and complete the final year of his five‑year, $215.2 million contract, barring an unlikely trade. The clarification follows comments from insider James Ham that some interpreted as a hint toward a buyout, though league sources insist Sacramento sees no incentive to negotiate a salary settlement or use the stretch provision.

LaVine exercised his $48.9 million player option earlier in the summer, securing his return after a difficult 22‑60 campaign. Despite injuries limiting him to 39 games, he averaged 19.2 points on efficient shooting splits, remaining one of the team’s most reliable scorers when healthy. Trade scenarios remain improbable due to his contract, making an unrestricted free‑agency exit next summer the most realistic outcome as Sacramento continues reshaping its roster.