LaVine spoke candidly at the end-of-season press conference, emphasizing a desire to win and continue improving, despite Sacramento’s 22-60 record and 14th-place finish in the Western Conference. He noted that this season’s struggles were driven by injuries that sidelined key players for extended periods, including LaVine himself, Domantas Sabonis, and Keegan Murray.
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The season’s tough outings followed a midseason move that brought LaVine to the Kings in a three-team trade that reshaped the roster and altered the team’s short- and long-term plans. In 39 games this season with Sacramento, LaVine averaged 19.2 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.3 assists, a downturn from his earlier production due to limited playing time and post-surgical recovery.
LaVine’s injury in February—tendon surgery on his right hand—also contributed to his reduced impact and the team’s inability to sustain momentum. With a potential extension on the table and teams weighing options in a constrained free-agent market, the 2026-27 decision will hinge on LaVine’s assessment of his fit, role, and the Kings’ ability to build a healthier, more competitive roster around him.
As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on whether LaVine opts into the nearly $49 million salary for next season or pursues other avenues. The decision will shape Sacramento’s cap strategy and the team’s plans to compete in a crowded Western Conference, with expectations for a stronger footing next season contingent on both player health and organizational improvements.
