Zach LaVine will stay with the Sacramento Kings for the 2026-27 season after opting into his $49 million player option, after an injury-hit year limited him to 39 games.
When the Sacramento Kings tried to change the shape of their roster ahead of the February trade deadline, Zach LaVine didn’t move—there simply weren’t takers. And now, with free agency looming as the next big test of his value, the decision is already made.
LaVine will be back in Sacramento after he opted into his $49 million player option for the 2026-27 season, choosing not to become an unrestricted free agent. The move was reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania on Monday, citing Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul.
The 2024-25 season came with real physical friction for LaVine. He was hampered by an ankle injury and a finger injury, and the result was a limited run of 39 games. His production dipped in multiple areas: he averaged 19.2 points. the lowest mark since his fourth year. with career lows of 2.8 rebounds and 2.3 assists.
It’s the combination that matters—LaVine’s free-agent interest was expected to be strong. but the Kings couldn’t find a trade partner earlier in the process. By opting in. he removes uncertainty for at least one more season. while the numbers from an injury-affected year point to how difficult the path has been just to stay fully available.
More details were promised following the announcement.
Sacramento Kings Zach LaVine NBA news player option $49 million 2026-27 season ankle injury finger injury free agency