Marc Stein explains why Zach LaVine could become a target
The NBA trade market is already heating up barely a month into the new season, and Sacramento Kings star Zach LaVine is at the center of the story. With the Kings off to a 5-16 start, rival teams are watching closely to see how the franchise handles the situation, especially regarding LaVine’s future.
Insider Marc Stein recently shared some insight into why LaVine could become one of the season’s favorites the most intriguing trade candidates.
According to Stein, the All-Star guard has a player option for the 2026-27 season worth nearly $50 million.
The provision created a unique dynamic: If LaVine were willing to decline that option and instead agree to a long-term deal at a lower annual salary, multiple teams could emerge as potential suitors.
Stein emphasized that this is more than just a financial calculation.
“There’s kind of rumblings if he’s willing to decline that option and take a longer-term extension at a lower number, I think there would be some trade interest for Zach LaVine,” he noted.
Zach LaVine drops a transition shot 💪 pic.twitter.com/ViPGnR5eg2
— The Kings on NBCS (@NBCSKings) December 1, 2025
basically, flexibility on LaVine’s part could make him a very attractive target for teams looking to add proven scoring and experience while balancing their salary cap space.
The discussion also extended to DeMar DeRozan, whose contract for next season is only partially guaranteed.
Stein hinted that if the market opens up, DeRozan could also become a potential trade asset, though the current focus remains on LaVine.
Sacramento’s struggles this season have only fueled the speculation.
The team’s front office is under pressure to turn things around, and moving a high-profile player like LaVine could free up cap space or net worth assets.
However, any potential trade would likely depend on careful negotiations Lavin’s talent and status as the centerpiece of the team.
The LaVine trade saga is still in its early stages, but with his player option and potential contract flexibility, he could easily become one of the NBA’s most talked-about trade pieces as teams try to make contending moves.
2025-12-01 16:43:00
