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Kings Exclude Zach LaVine, Push Trade or Buyout

7/31/2026

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Story summary
  • Zach LaVine exercised his $49 million option, which the Kings said excludes him from their 2026-27 plans.
  • Officials warned he may see limited minutes and could be moved by game 20.
  • His injury history and $49 million salary make him nearly untradable, so a trade or buyout must happen now.
  • After only one playoff appearance since 2006-07, the Kings will develop Darius Acuff Jr., Alex Karaban and other young players to build chemistry.