<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en">    <head>        <script>   (function(i, s, o, g, r, a, m) {     i["GoogleAnalyticsObject"] = r;     i[r] = i[r] || function() {       (i[r].q = i[r].q || []).push(arguments)     }, i[r].l = 1 * new Date();     a = s.createElement(o),       m = s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];     a.async = 1;     a.src = g;     m.parentNode.insertBefore(a, m)   })(window, document, "script", "https://www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js", "ga");   ga('create', 'UA-66147751-16', {     'storage': 'none',     'clientId': localStorage.getItem('ga:clientId')   });   ga(function(tracker) {     localStorage.setItem('ga:clientId', tracker.get('clientId'));   });   ga('set', 'checkProtocolTask', null);      ga('set', 'page', '/nba/sacramento-kings/kings-news-zach-lavine-status-update-lakers');   ga('set', 'title', 'Zach LaVine’s major status update for Lakers clash');   ga('send', 'pageview');</script>        <style type="text/css" media="all">            body {    background: transparent;    margin: 0px;}h1, h2, h3 {    color: #DDDDDD;    font-family: "SFUIText-Semibold";    margin: 30px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 21px;    line-height: 125%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}header {    margin: 0px;    height: 0px;    display: none;}p {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 15px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}p > img {    margin-left: -15px;    width: calc(100% + 30px);}a {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;    text-decoration: underline;}ul {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 3px 10px 3px 10px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}ol {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}img {    margin: 0px;    width: 100%;    height: auto;}blockquote {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Medium";    margin: 30px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 19px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}blockquote p {    margin: 0px;}.op-tracker, .op-ad {    display: none;    height: 0px;}article > figure {    margin: 0px;}figcaption {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 10px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 13px;}iframe {    width: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;    margin: 0px;    border: 0;}.vine-embed {    height: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;}.twitter-tweet, .instagram-media {    margin-left: 15px !important;    margin-right: 15px !important;    width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;}.clutchpoints-widget {    /*margin: 10px 15px 10px 15px !important;*/    /*margin-top: 1px !important;*/    padding-top: 10px;    /*margin-left: 15px !important;*/    /*margin-right: 15px !important;*/    /*width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;*/}        </style>        <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8" />    </head>    <body>        <article id="mvp-content-main"><header><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/IMG_0249.jpeg"><figcaption>Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images</figcaption></figure><h1>Zach LaVine’s major status update for Lakers clash</h1><time class="op-published" datetime="2025-10-25T18:59:43-07:00">October 25th, 6:59pm</time><time class="op-modified" datetime="2025-10-25T18:59:43-07:00">October 25th, 6:59pm</time><address><a>David Yapkowitz</a>David Yapkowitz is an NBA Associate Editor at ClutchPoints. He is a credentialed reporter based in Los Angeles who covers the NBA/WNBA, NCAA/NCAAW and boys/girls high school basketball.</address><h3 class="op-kicker">NBA</h3><figure class="op-ad"></figure></header><p>The Sacramento Kings are coming off a thrilling 105-104 win against the Utah Jazz on Friday courtesy of a <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/sacramento-kings/kings-news-domantas-sabonis-splashes-game-winner-take-down-jazz">Domantas Sabonis game-winner</a> after <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/sacramento-kings/kings-news-will-domantas-sabonis-make-season-debut-jazz">he made his season debut</a>. The Kings are looking to carry that momentum over to Sunday’s matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers. But the Kings might be a little short-handed. Zach LaVine appeared on the Kings’ injury report for their game against the Lakers with a major status update.</p><p>Zach LaVine is <a href="https://ak-static.cms.nba.com/referee/injury/Injury-Report_2025-10-25_08PM.pdf" rel="noopener">officially listed as questionable</a> due to illness, as per the NBA’s official injury report, putting his status against the Lakers in doubt, with a final update likely not coming until right before the game. The Lakers might be a little short-handed themselves as Luka Doncic was listed on the injury report as questionable due to a finger injury.</p><p>Doncic has been off to a scorching start to the season for the Lakers, and LaVine has been as well for the Kings. During the King’s season opener against the Phoenix Suns, LaVine finished with 30 points in 35 minutes on 13-of-24 (54.2 percent) shooting from the field. He followed that up by dropping 31 points in 37 minutes against the Jazz, while shooting 10-of-18 (55.6 percent) from the field, 4-of-9 (44.4 percent) from the three-point line and 7-of-7 from the free-throw line.</p><p>LaVine is coming off his first training camp and preseason with the Kings after they acquired him in a multi-trade involving the Chicago Bulls and San Antonio Spurs during last season’s deadline.</p><p>Following the trade, LaVine appeared in 32 games for the Kings at a little over 36 minutes per game. He averaged 22.4 points, 3.5 rebounds and 3.8 assists with splits of 51.1 percent shooting from the field, 44.6 percent shooting from the three-point line and 87.4 percent shooting from the free-throw line.</p><p>LaVine is entering his 12th season in the NBA after he was selected with the No. 13 overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves.</p><figure class="op-tracker"></figure></article>    </body></html>

Zach LaVine’s major status update for Lakers clash

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en">    <head>        <script>   (function(i, s, o, g, r, a, m) {     i["GoogleAnalyticsObject"] = r;     i[r] = i[r] || function() {       (i[r].q = i[r].q || []).push(arguments)     }, i[r].l = 1 * new Date();     a = s.createElement(o),       m = s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];     a.async = 1;     a.src = g;     m.parentNode.insertBefore(a, m)   })(window, document, "script", "https://www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js", "ga");   ga('create', 'UA-66147751-16', {     'storage': 'none',     'clientId': localStorage.getItem('ga:clientId')   });   ga(function(tracker) {     localStorage.setItem('ga:clientId', tracker.get('clientId'));   });   ga('set', 'checkProtocolTask', null);      ga('set', 'page', '/nba/chicago-bulls/one-player-bulls-kings-zach-lavine-trade');   ga('set', 'title', 'One player who will determine winner of Bulls-Kings Zach LaVine trade');   ga('send', 'pageview');</script>        <style type="text/css" media="all">            body {    background: transparent;    margin: 0px;}h1, h2, h3 {    color: #DDDDDD;    font-family: "SFUIText-Semibold";    margin: 30px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 21px;    line-height: 125%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}header {    margin: 0px;    height: 0px;    display: none;}p {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 15px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}p > img {    margin-left: -15px;    width: calc(100% + 30px);}a {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;    text-decoration: underline;}ul {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 3px 10px 3px 10px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}ol {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}img {    margin: 0px;    width: 100%;    height: auto;}blockquote {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Medium";    margin: 30px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 19px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}blockquote p {    margin: 0px;}.op-tracker, .op-ad {    display: none;    height: 0px;}article > figure {    margin: 0px;}figcaption {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 10px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 13px;}iframe {    width: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;    margin: 0px;    border: 0;}.vine-embed {    height: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;}.twitter-tweet, .instagram-media {    margin-left: 15px !important;    margin-right: 15px !important;    width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;}.clutchpoints-widget {    /*margin: 10px 15px 10px 15px !important;*/    /*margin-top: 1px !important;*/    padding-top: 10px;    /*margin-left: 15px !important;*/    /*margin-right: 15px !important;*/    /*width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;*/}        </style>        <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8" />    </head>    <body>        <article id="mvp-content-main"><header><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/One-player-who-will-determine-winner-of-Bulls-Kings-Zach-LaVine-trade.jpg"><figcaption>Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images</figcaption></figure><h1>One player who will determine winner of Bulls-Kings Zach LaVine trade</h1><time class="op-published" datetime="2025-10-14T16:54:37-07:00">October 14th, 4:54pm</time><time class="op-modified" datetime="2025-10-14T16:54:37-07:00">October 14th, 4:54pm</time><address><a>Zachary Draves</a>Zachary Draves is a sportswriter and broadcaster based in the Quad Cities of Illinois and Iowa. Zachary covers a variety of different sports as well as sports history, sport and society, and sport and culture. He is also a professor of sociology.</address><h3 class="op-kicker">Chicago Bulls</h3><figure class="op-ad"></figure></header><p>Back in February, the Chicago Bulls shocked the basketball world by announcing they were <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/chicago-bulls/bulls-trade-grade-for-zach-lavine-blockbuster">trading Zach LaVine to the Sacramento Kings</a>. As part of that three-way trade, the Bulls snatched up guard Tre Jones.</p><p>On the one hand, the Bulls gave up a highly effective offensive player. However, on the other hand, they are looking to rebuild with younger players. That is where Jones, 25, entered into the picture.</p><p>For the remainder of the 2024-2025 season, Jones put up some considerable figures. Over the course of 18 games, Jones averaged 11.5 points, 4.9 assists, and 3.2 rebounds, and shot 57.2% from the field. Obviously, Bulls saw enough to <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/chicago-bulls/grading-tre-jones-new-chicago-bulls-contract">sign Jones to a three-year $24 million contract</a> in July.</p><p>During the preseason, Jones has continued to elevate his game. So far, he is averaging 9.3 points, 5.0 assists, and 3.3 rebounds per game, while shooting 70% from the field. In both games against the Cleveland Cavaliers, Jones scored 10 points and shot 80% from the field.</p><p>Plus, in the second game on Oct.9, he had seven assists and five rebounds to cap off what was a complete game.</p><p>Altogether, Jones has <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/chicago-bulls/grading-tre-jones-new-chicago-bulls-contract" rel="noopener">proven himself</a> to be an effective playmaker with potential, per Maxwell Ogden of Pippen Ain’t Easy. Additionally, he could serve as a mediator between Coby White and Josh Giddey in the backcourt, relieving them of minutes as he comes off the bench.</p><p>Indeed, it is the regular season that matters more than the preseason. However, so far, there are signs that the Bulls were right to give Jones a break.</p><h2><b>The Bulls’ second unit is in good hands. </b></h2><p>Perhaps the biggest reason why the Bulls are fortunate to have Jones is because he has all the necessities to lead the bench. His playmaking, ball-handling, and defensive prowess are a tantalizing trifecta that Bulls need to ensure the starters can rest easy.</p><p>The latter point is something that Jones has that LaVine didn’t. Overall, <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/chicago-bulls/bulls-news-zach-lavine-is-tired-of-people-talking-st-about-his-defense">LaVine was chastised for his defensive struggles</a>. Over the last few seasons, his defensive ratings are between 114.3-114.7, which is higher than the league average.</p><p>Nevertheless, his inconsistency, subpar footwork, and lack of awareness have constantly overshadowed him.</p><p>Meanwhile, Jones is a very scrappy defender who has great awareness, quickness, and can particularly disrupt the passing lanes. During the 2023-2024 season with the Spurs, Jones finished fifth in the Defensive Player of the Year voting.</p><p>Plus, Coach Billy Donovan has <a href="https://heavy.com/sports/nba/chicago-bulls/bulls-billy-donovan-claims-recently-acquired-point-guard-has-it-factor/" rel="noopener">heaped praise</a> on Jones for being the “it factor” point guard who can fill the void left by Lonzo Ball after the Bulls <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/chicago-bulls/chicago-bulls-grade-lonzo-ball-isaac-okoro-trade">traded him to the Cavaliers</a> in exchange for Issac Okoro. In other words, a real playmaking point guard who is the jack of all trades.</p><p>Furthermore, Jones can be entrusted with keeping the ball in his hands. For instance, his assist to turnover ratio was 5.49 last season. Meaning, he doesn’t turn the ball over with such frequency.</p><p>That is a major plus, especially coming off the bench. Altogether, the Bulls got everything they could ask for in Tre Jones. Plus, their growing physicality and youthfulness is the perfect fit for him.</p><p>It turns out, sometimes “buying low” can take you higher.</p><figure class="op-tracker"></figure></article>    </body></html>

One player who will determine winner of Bulls-Kings Zach LaVine trade

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en">    <head>        <script>   (function(i, s, o, g, r, a, m) {     i["GoogleAnalyticsObject"] = r;     i[r] = i[r] || function() {       (i[r].q = i[r].q || []).push(arguments)     }, i[r].l = 1 * new Date();     a = s.createElement(o),       m = s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];     a.async = 1;     a.src = g;     m.parentNode.insertBefore(a, m)   })(window, document, "script", "https://www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js", "ga");   ga('create', 'UA-66147751-16', {     'storage': 'none',     'clientId': localStorage.getItem('ga:clientId')   });   ga(function(tracker) {     localStorage.setItem('ga:clientId', tracker.get('clientId'));   });   ga('set', 'checkProtocolTask', null);      ga('set', 'page', '/nba/sacramento-kings/kings-rumors-how-jonathan-kuminga-interest-speaks-vision-zach-lavine-question');   ga('set', 'title', 'Kings rumors: How Jonathan Kuminga interest ‘speaks to vision’ amid Zach LaVine question');   ga('send', 'pageview');</script>        <style type="text/css" media="all">            body {    background: transparent;    margin: 0px;}h1, h2, h3 {    color: #DDDDDD;    font-family: "SFUIText-Semibold";    margin: 30px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 21px;    line-height: 125%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}header {    margin: 0px;    height: 0px;    display: none;}p {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 15px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}p > img {    margin-left: -15px;    width: calc(100% + 30px);}a {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;    text-decoration: underline;}ul {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 3px 10px 3px 10px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}ol {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}img {    margin: 0px;    width: 100%;    height: auto;}blockquote {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Medium";    margin: 30px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 19px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}blockquote p {    margin: 0px;}.op-tracker, .op-ad {    display: none;    height: 0px;}article > figure {    margin: 0px;}figcaption {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 10px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 13px;}iframe {    width: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;    margin: 0px;    border: 0;}.vine-embed {    height: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;}.twitter-tweet, .instagram-media {    margin-left: 15px !important;    margin-right: 15px !important;    width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;}.clutchpoints-widget {    /*margin: 10px 15px 10px 15px !important;*/    /*margin-top: 1px !important;*/    padding-top: 10px;    /*margin-left: 15px !important;*/    /*margin-right: 15px !important;*/    /*width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;*/}        </style>        <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8" />    </head>    <body>        <article id="mvp-content-main"><header><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Zach-LaVine-and-Jonathan-Kuminga.jpg"><figcaption>D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images</figcaption></figure><h1>Kings rumors: How Jonathan Kuminga interest ‘speaks to vision’ amid Zach LaVine question</h1><time class="op-published" datetime="2025-06-26T06:53:49-07:00">June 26th, 6:53am</time><time class="op-modified" datetime="2025-06-26T06:53:49-07:00">June 26th, 6:53am</time><address><a>Malik Brown</a>Malik Brown is a multimedia reporter based in Atlanta who covers the Hawks and Dream for ClutchPoints. Malik has worked in entertainment and sports, and he specializes in the NBA and NFL.</address><h3 class="op-kicker">NBA</h3><figure class="op-ad"></figure></header><p>The Sacramento <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/sacramento-kings/kings-rumors-dennis-schroder-emerges-as-key-sacramento-pg-free-agency-target">Kings are looking to make some moves</a> this offseason, and general manager Scott Perry wants to shift this team. Last year, the team underperformed, and coming into this offseason, there will be changes to the roster, as well as some additions that should help them.</p><p>One thing to take note of is Zach LaVine and his future with the team, as he was traded to the Kings at last year’s deadline. The Kings may like him <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6452468/2025/06/26/sacramento-kings-offseason-nba-draft-2025/" rel="noopener">in their future plans</a>, but they have their eyes on someone else as well, according to The Athletic’s Sam Amick.</p><p>“While the 30-year-old, two-time All-Star is extension-eligible this summer, team and league sources say there are no plans for the Kings to prioritize a new deal for LaVine,” Amick said. “If they’re going to pay that sort of freight, it’s quite clear, it will be for a younger player who can be a long-term part of their picture.</p><p>“To that end, league sources say the Kings are among the teams that have interest in Golden State’s Jonathan Kuminga and will be monitoring his market when his restricted free agency begins. And while it appears unlikely that Kuminga will ultimately come their way, it speaks to the vision, and the range of possibilities here, that they’re even focusing on players of that ilk.”</p><p><a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/warriors-news-jonathan-kuminga-wants-to-know-more-about-the-trade-stuff">Kuminga’s market will be interesting</a>, as some reports have noted that there could be a reunion with him and the Warriors.</p><h2><b>Could the Kings look to acquire Jonathan Kuminga?</b></h2><p>If the Kings want to get younger, trying to acquire someone like Kuminga should definitely be on their list. Kuminga has upside, and on the Warriors, his role has changed a few times, so it may have been hard for him to find consistency. With the Kings, it’s hard to know how they might use him, but his role may be more clear than it’s ever been.</p><p>If Kuminga is brought in to the Kings, then the future of LaVine should be in question. They already have a load of wings on the roster, and no one knows what will happen with DeMar DeRozan as well. If Perry wants to go completely young, then there’s a good chance either LaVine or DeRozan is getting traded. That would leave space for Kuminga to have a big role with the team if they were to acquire him.</p><figure class="op-tracker"></figure></article>    </body></html>

Kings rumors: How Jonathan Kuminga interest ‘speaks to vision’ amid Zach LaVine question

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en">    <head>        <script>   (function(i, s, o, g, r, a, m) {     i["GoogleAnalyticsObject"] = r;     i[r] = i[r] || function() {       (i[r].q = i[r].q || []).push(arguments)     }, i[r].l = 1 * new Date();     a = s.createElement(o),       m = s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];     a.async = 1;     a.src = g;     m.parentNode.insertBefore(a, m)   })(window, document, "script", "https://www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js", "ga");   ga('create', 'UA-66147751-16', {     'storage': 'none',     'clientId': localStorage.getItem('ga:clientId')   });   ga(function(tracker) {     localStorage.setItem('ga:clientId', tracker.get('clientId'));   });   ga('set', 'checkProtocolTask', null);      ga('set', 'page', '/nba/sacramento-kings/kings-news-scott-perry-old-zach-lavine-quote-interesting-offseason');   ga('set', 'title', 'New Kings GM’s old Zach LaVine quote will make for interesting offseason');   ga('send', 'pageview');</script>        <style type="text/css" media="all">            body {    background: transparent;    margin: 0px;}h1, h2, h3 {    color: #DDDDDD;    font-family: "SFUIText-Semibold";    margin: 30px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 21px;    line-height: 125%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}header {    margin: 0px;    height: 0px;    display: none;}p {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 15px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}p > img {    margin-left: -15px;    width: calc(100% + 30px);}a {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;    text-decoration: underline;}ul {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 3px 10px 3px 10px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}ol {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}img {    margin: 0px;    width: 100%;    height: auto;}blockquote {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Medium";    margin: 30px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 19px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}blockquote p {    margin: 0px;}.op-tracker, .op-ad {    display: none;    height: 0px;}article > figure {    margin: 0px;}figcaption {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 10px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 13px;}iframe {    width: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;    margin: 0px;    border: 0;}.vine-embed {    height: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;}.twitter-tweet, .instagram-media {    margin-left: 15px !important;    margin-right: 15px !important;    width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;}.clutchpoints-widget {    /*margin: 10px 15px 10px 15px !important;*/    /*margin-top: 1px !important;*/    padding-top: 10px;    /*margin-left: 15px !important;*/    /*margin-right: 15px !important;*/    /*width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;*/}        </style>        <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8" />    </head>    <body>        <article id="mvp-content-main"><header><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Zach-Lavine-gets-harsh-take-from-Kings.jpg"><figcaption>© Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images</figcaption></figure><h1>New Kings GM’s old Zach LaVine quote will make for interesting offseason</h1><time class="op-published" datetime="2025-04-22T07:30:11-07:00">April 22nd, 7:30am</time><time class="op-modified" datetime="2025-04-22T07:30:11-07:00">April 22nd, 7:30am</time><address><a href="https://haydencilley.wixsite.com/hayden-cilley-s-port">Hayden Cilley</a>Hayden Cilley joined ClutchPoints in August 2024 as a Phoenix Suns and Mercury reporter, as well as an Associate Editor. Hayden graduated from the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism at Arizona State University. He recently covered the Phoenix Mercury for The Next Hoops and PHNX Sports.</address><h3 class="op-kicker">NBA</h3><figure class="op-ad"></figure></header><p>When the <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/sacramento-kings/kings-news-scott-perry-former-knicks-gm-after-firing-monte-mcnair">Sacramento Kings hired Scott Perry</a> as their general manager, it might not have pleased Zach LaVine. When Perry was hired, <a href="https://www.si.com/nba/kings/sacramento-kings-news/new-kings-gm-s-controversial-zach-lavine-statement-goes-viral-01jsb05rvfnp" rel="noopener">an old quote</a> from 2023 resurfaced regarding the shooting guard.</p><p>“No question that Zach LaVine can score the basketball…Does he impact winning?” Perry said on an episode of The Hoop Genius Podcast with BJ Armstrong.</p><p>“Zach LaVine has been to 1 playoff series in 9 years.”</p><p>The words are harsh, but he makes a valid point to some degree. LaVine can put the ball in the basket as well as anybody. However, his game hasn’t evolved as much as others would like.</p><p>For instance, his playmaking hasn’t taken a major leap. He’s never averaged more than five assists a game. Not to mention his defense. That’s been an area where people are surprised he hasn’t taken a step forward.</p><p>LaVine is one of the most athletic guys in the NBA. Usually, defensive fundamentals can be quickly taught if the athleticism is there. He has the athletic traits, but <a href="https://theswishtheory.com/nba/2024/06/zach-lavine-the-wages-of-perception/" rel="noopener">hasn’t excelled</a> in that regard.</p><h2><b>Will the Kings keep Zach LaVine with Scott Perry as GM?</b></h2><p>Considering that the <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/sacramento-kings/kings-news-deaaron-fox-trade-spurs-zach-lavine-kings">Kings traded for LaVine</a> during the trade deadline, they might be set on keeping him. After all, DeRozan and LaVine played together in Chicago and established a formidable one-two punch.</p><p>Still, they didn’t produce many wins with the duo on the court. However, a trio of Domantas Sabonis, DeRozan, and LaVine could be enticing.</p><p>No matter what, Perry will have his hands full. His comments about LaVine have resurfaced and might be a talking point in the offseason.</p><p>Even though the Kings traded for LaVine, the general manager might want to go a different route. He might want to get more depth and quality pieces around DeRozan and Sabonis.</p><p>At the end of the day, a play-in exit isn’t anything worth celebrating. Considering that the team fired Mike Brown in the middle of the season, the franchise might be in for an overhaul.</p><p>Whatever Perry decides to do is unknown, but one thing is clear: He might try to get LaVine out of Sacramento.</p><figure class="op-tracker"></figure></article>    </body></html>

New Kings GM’s old Zach LaVine quote will make for interesting offseason

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en">    <head>        <script>   (function(i, s, o, g, r, a, m) {     i["GoogleAnalyticsObject"] = r;     i[r] = i[r] || function() {       (i[r].q = i[r].q || []).push(arguments)     }, i[r].l = 1 * new Date();     a = s.createElement(o),       m = s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];     a.async = 1;     a.src = g;     m.parentNode.insertBefore(a, m)   })(window, document, "script", "https://www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js", "ga");   ga('create', 'UA-66147751-16', {     'storage': 'none',     'clientId': localStorage.getItem('ga:clientId')   });   ga(function(tracker) {     localStorage.setItem('ga:clientId', tracker.get('clientId'));   });   ga('set', 'checkProtocolTask', null);      ga('set', 'page', '/nba/sacramento-kings/ranking-best-zach-lavine-trade-destinations-if-kings-blow-it-up');   ga('set', 'title', 'Ranking 5 best Zach LaVine trade destinations if Kings blow it up');   ga('send', 'pageview');</script>        <style type="text/css" media="all">            body {    background: transparent;    margin: 0px;}h1, h2, h3 {    color: #DDDDDD;    font-family: "SFUIText-Semibold";    margin: 30px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 21px;    line-height: 125%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}header {    margin: 0px;    height: 0px;    display: none;}p {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 15px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}p > img {    margin-left: -15px;    width: calc(100% + 30px);}a {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;    text-decoration: underline;}ul {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 3px 10px 3px 10px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}ol {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}img {    margin: 0px;    width: 100%;    height: auto;}blockquote {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Medium";    margin: 30px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 19px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}blockquote p {    margin: 0px;}.op-tracker, .op-ad {    display: none;    height: 0px;}article > figure {    margin: 0px;}figcaption {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 10px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 13px;}iframe {    width: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;    margin: 0px;    border: 0;}.vine-embed {    height: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;}.twitter-tweet, .instagram-media {    margin-left: 15px !important;    margin-right: 15px !important;    width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;}.clutchpoints-widget {    /*margin: 10px 15px 10px 15px !important;*/    /*margin-top: 1px !important;*/    padding-top: 10px;    /*margin-left: 15px !important;*/    /*margin-right: 15px !important;*/    /*width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;*/}        </style>        <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8" />    </head>    <body>        <article id="mvp-content-main"><header><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Ranking-X-best-Zach-LaVine-trade-destinations-if-Kings-blow-it-up.jpg"><figcaption>ClutchPoints</figcaption></figure><h1>Ranking 5 best Zach LaVine trade destinations if Kings blow it up</h1><time class="op-published" datetime="2025-04-19T12:54:37-07:00">April 19th, 12:54pm</time><time class="op-modified" datetime="2025-04-19T13:39:01-07:00">April 19th, 1:39pm</time><address><a>Julian Ojeda</a>Julian Ojeda is an Orlando-based sports journalist with 3 years of professional writing under his belt, specializing in both NBA and NFL coverage. A devoted Orlando Magic fan, he deftly balances fervent fandom with insightful reporting, possessing a keen eye for compelling narratives.</address><h3 class="op-kicker">Denver Nuggets</h3><figure class="op-ad"></figure></header><p>The <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/sacramento-kings/ranking-best-domantas-sabonis-trade-destinations-if-kings-blow-it-up">Sacramento Kings face significant uncertainty</a> heading into this offseason. The <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/sacramento-kings/kings-news-monte-mcnair-fired-immediately-after-play-in-loss-mavericks">Kings made a bold move following their 120-106 Play-In loss to the Dallas Mavericks</a>, failing to qualify for the NBA playoffs for the second straight season, by parting ways with general manager Monte McNair.</p><p>The Kings quickly pivoted and <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/sacramento-kings/kings-news-scott-perry-former-knicks-gm-after-firing-monte-mcnair">replaced McNair with former New York Knicks executive Scott Perry</a>. However, there’s still uncertainty about the direction the Kings will take after finishing 40-42 as the ninth seed in a loaded Western Conference.</p><p>The firing of McNair has also brought uncertainty regarding the futures of DeMar DeRozan, Domantas Sabonis, Zach LaVine, and head coach Doug Christie.</p><p>If the Kings decide to go into a full rebuild under new general manager Perry, here are the five best trade destinations for Zach LaVine.</p><h2><b>5. Philadelphia 76ers</b></h2><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Paul-George-is-defended-by-Chicago-Bulls-guard-Zach-LaVine.jpg"><figcaption>© Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images</figcaption></figure><p>The Philadelphia 76ers have had one of the most disappointing seasons in 2024-25. The <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/philadelphia-76ers/76ers-news-philly-makes-paul-george-splash-free-agency">76ers were aggressive last offseason, signing Paul George</a> to a four-year, $212 million deal. However, the move didn’t pay off.</p><p>The 34-year-old forward played in only 41 games, averaging 16.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 1.8 steals per game on 43% shooting from the field and 35.8% from three — all of which were down from his career norms.</p><p>Injuries were a recurring theme for Philadelphia. Tyrese Maxey was limited to 52 games. Joel Embiid played only 19 games — his fewest since his rookie year — and rookie Jared McCain, who was an early frontrunner for Rookie of the Year, suffered a season-ending torn meniscus after just 23 games. As a result, the Sixers fell to a 24-58 record, finishing 13th in the Eastern Conference.</p><p>With George’s age and decline in production, the Sixers could consider moving him and taking a chance on LaVine. The 30-year-old Zach LaVine had one of the healthiest seasons of his career, playing 74 games split between the Chicago Bulls (42) and Kings (32).</p><p>He averaged 23.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 4.2 assists while shooting a career-best 51.1% from the field and 44.6% from three. LaVine is currently on a five-year, $215 million deal with a player option for the 2026-27 season worth $48.9 million.</p><p>A potential deal: Paul George (34), a 2028 first-round pick, a 2029 first-round pick (Los Angeles Clippers swap rights), and a 2028 second-round pick.</p><h2><b>4. Miami Heat</b></h2><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Zach-LaVine-shoots-the-basketball-over-basket-Miami-Heat-center-Bam-Adebayo.jpg"><figcaption>© Sam Navarro-Imagn Images</figcaption></figure><p>The Miami Heat had a rollercoaster season in 2024-25. The <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/golden-state-warriors/warriors-news-jimmy-butler-heat-trade">Jimmy Butler era came to an end as the team traded him to the Golden State Warriors</a> at the deadline in a multiteam deal that landed Miami Andrew Wiggins, Davion Mitchell, Kyle Anderson, and a 2025 first-round pick.</p><p>The Heat then endured a 10-game losing streak — their longest since 2008 — but managed to bounce back, finishing 37-45.</p><p><a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/miami-heat/heat-news-davion-mitchell-dagger-vs-hawks-seals-miami-playoff-berth">The Heat became the first 10th seed in NBA history to clinch a playoff berth</a>, defeating both the Chicago Bulls and the Atlanta Hawks in an overtime thriller during the Play-In Tournament. Miami will face the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first round Sunday night at 7:00 p.m. ET on TNT.</p><p>Miami is expected to be aggressive in the offseason. While <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/nba-stories/heat-trade-proposal-lands-kevin-durant-suns-offseason">they’ve been linked to Kevin Durant</a>, if those efforts fall short, they could pivot to Zach LaVine, who has been a rumored target in years past.</p><p>Offensively, the Heat ranked 24th in scoring (110.6 PPG) but were solid from beyond the arc — 12th in makes (13.7) and 12th in efficiency (36.7%). LaVine would enhance Miami’s offensive punch and create a dynamic backcourt with Tyler Herro while fitting in nicely alongside Bam Adebayo.</p><p>A possible trade package: Terry Rozier (31, expiring $26.6M), Duncan Robinson (30, $19.8M), a 2025 first-round pick (via Golden State), a 2029 first-round pick, and a 2027 second-round pick (Oklahoma City Thunder, New York Knicks, or San Antonio Spurs swap rights).</p><h2><b>3. Orlando Magic</b></h2><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Zach-LaVine-looks-on-during-the-first-quarter-against-the-Orlando-Magic.jpg"><figcaption>© Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images</figcaption></figure><p>The Orlando Magic could also emerge as a Zach LaVine suitor. After finishing 47-35 in 2023-24, the Magic were expected to take another step forward this season but were hampered by injuries.</p><p>Paolo Banchero missed 34 games. Franz Wagner missed 20 with a torn oblique. Jalen Suggs was limited to 35 games due to a season-ending injury, and Moritz Wagner played in just 30 games after suffering a torn ACL.</p><p>Despite the setbacks, the Magic clinched their second straight Southeast Division title and playoff appearance. They defeated the Atlanta Hawks in the Play-In Tournament to secure the seventh seed and <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/orlando-magic/magic-news-magic-celtics-playoff-series-hit-with-bold-magic-johnson-prediction">will face the defending champion Boston Celtics on Sunday</a> at 3:30 p.m. ET on ABC.</p><p>Offensive production remains Orlando’s Achilles heel. The Magic ranked 27th in <a href="https://www.nba.com/stats/teams/traditional?SeasonType=Regular%20Season&amp;dir=D&amp;sort=PTS" rel="noopener">points per game</a> (105.4), and dead last in both threes made (11.2) and three-point percentage (31.8%). LaVine would provide much-needed perimeter scoring and floor spacing.</p><p>A potential trade: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (32, $21.6M), Cole Anthony (24, $13.1M), Wendell Carter Jr. (26, $10.8M), Jett Howard (21, $5.5M), a 2027 first-round pick, a 2025 second-round pick, and a 2026 second-round pick.</p><p>The move could leave Orlando thin at center, but Goga Bitadze has shown promise in starting roles, and the Magic would retain Moritz Wagner and defensive specialist Jonathan Isaac.</p><h2><b>2. Detroit Pistons</b></h2><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Zach-LaVine-dribbles-defended-by-Detroit-Pistons-forward-Tim-Hardaway-Jr.jpg"><figcaption>© Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images</figcaption></figure><p>Detroit has taken a massive leap this season behind Cade Cunningham’s leadership and J.B. Bickerstaff’s coaching. The Pistons, who went 14-68 last year, ended the 2024-25 regular season at 44-38 and secured their first playoff berth since 2018-19.</p><p>Cunningham, 23, posted career-highs across the board: 26.1 points, 9.1 assists, 6.1 rebounds, and one steal per game while shooting 46.9% from the field and 35.6% from three in 70 games.</p><p>With a <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/detroit-pistons/pistons-3-biggest-advantages-to-exploit-for-knicks-playoff-upset">first-round series against the New York Knicks looming</a>, Detroit may look to build on this season’s success by targeting Zach LaVine. He brings scoring and playmaking that would complement Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren, and Jaden Ivey — who played just 30 games this season after breaking his left fibula.</p><p>Potential return: Tobias Harris (32, expiring $26.6M) and Isaiah Stewart (23, three years remaining on a $15M annual deal with a team option for 2027-28).</p><h2><b>1. Denver Nuggets</b></h2><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Zach-LaVine-battles-for-a-rebound-with-Denver-Nuggets-center-Nikola-Jokic-and-guard-Jamal-Murray.jpg"><figcaption>© Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images</figcaption></figure><p>The Denver Nuggets are in a precarious spot. Despite finishing with a 50-32 record and entering the playoffs as the fourth seed, they made headlines before the postseason by <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/denver-nuggets/nuggets-news-the-moment-led-denver-to-fire-michael-malone-calvin-booth">firing head coach Michael Malone and general manager Calvin Booth</a> — the duo responsible for the 2023 championship.</p><p>Three-time MVP Nikola Jokic continues to make history. He became just the third player in NBA history to average a triple-double over an entire season, joining Russell Westbrook and Oscar Robertson. Jokic put up 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, 10.2 assists, and 1.8 steals per game while shooting 57.6% from the field and 41.7% from three over 70 games.</p><p>However, Denver’s defense was a glaring weakness, finishing 25th in the league and allowing 116.9 points per game.</p><p>Should the Nuggets fall short of expectations again, the front office could opt to retool around Jokic. <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/denver-nuggets/nuggets-trade-proposal-lands-zach-lavine-3-team-deal-bulls">Denver reportedly expressed interest in LaVine earlier this season</a>. A trade could involve Jamal Murray (28, four years, $46.3M per season), Hunter Tyson (24, two years, $2.2M), and a lottery-protected 2031 first-round pick.</p><p>The <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/denver-nuggets/nuggets-rumors-why-michael-porter-jr-trade-isnt-on-the-table">Nuggets reportedly plan to exclude Michael Porter Jr. from any trade discussions</a> largely because of his personal connection with the Kroenke family — owners of the franchise — and their shared ties to the University of Missouri.</p><p>With his scoring, efficiency, and ability to operate off the ball, Zach LaVine could be the final piece to elevate Denver back into title contention alongside Nikola Jokic.</p><figure class="op-tracker"></figure></article>    </body></html>

Ranking 5 best Zach LaVine trade destinations if Kings blow it up

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en">    <head>        <script>   (function(i, s, o, g, r, a, m) {     i["GoogleAnalyticsObject"] = r;     i[r] = i[r] || function() {       (i[r].q = i[r].q || []).push(arguments)     }, i[r].l = 1 * new Date();     a = s.createElement(o),       m = s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];     a.async = 1;     a.src = g;     m.parentNode.insertBefore(a, m)   })(window, document, "script", "https://www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js", "ga");   ga('create', 'UA-66147751-16', {     'storage': 'none',     'clientId': localStorage.getItem('ga:clientId')   });   ga(function(tracker) {     localStorage.setItem('ga:clientId', tracker.get('clientId'));   });   ga('set', 'checkProtocolTask', null);      ga('set', 'page', '/nba/miami-heat/heat-offseason-trade-proposal-lands-zach-lavine-after-kings-eliminated-from-playoffs');   ga('set', 'title', 'Heat offseason trade proposal lands Zach LaVine after Kings eliminated from playoffs');   ga('send', 'pageview');</script>        <style type="text/css" media="all">            body {    background: transparent;    margin: 0px;}h1, h2, h3 {    color: #DDDDDD;    font-family: "SFUIText-Semibold";    margin: 30px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 21px;    line-height: 125%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}header {    margin: 0px;    height: 0px;    display: none;}p {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 15px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}p > img {    margin-left: -15px;    width: calc(100% + 30px);}a {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;    text-decoration: underline;}ul {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 3px 10px 3px 10px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}ol {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}img {    margin: 0px;    width: 100%;    height: auto;}blockquote {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Medium";    margin: 30px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 19px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}blockquote p {    margin: 0px;}.op-tracker, .op-ad {    display: none;    height: 0px;}article > figure {    margin: 0px;}figcaption {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 10px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 13px;}iframe {    width: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;    margin: 0px;    border: 0;}.vine-embed {    height: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;}.twitter-tweet, .instagram-media {    margin-left: 15px !important;    margin-right: 15px !important;    width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;}.clutchpoints-widget {    /*margin: 10px 15px 10px 15px !important;*/    /*margin-top: 1px !important;*/    padding-top: 10px;    /*margin-left: 15px !important;*/    /*margin-right: 15px !important;*/    /*width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;*/}        </style>        <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8" />    </head>    <body>        <article id="mvp-content-main"><header><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Heat-offseason-trade-proposal-lands-Zach-LaVine-after-Kings-eliminated-from-playoffs.jpg"></figure><h1>Heat offseason trade proposal lands Zach LaVine after Kings eliminated from playoffs</h1><time class="op-published" datetime="2025-04-17T11:12:38-07:00">April 17th, 11:12am</time><time class="op-modified" datetime="2025-04-17T11:12:38-07:00">April 17th, 11:12am</time><address><a>Bailey Bassett</a>Bailey Bassett is a sports writer from Denver, Colorado, covering major sports events and athlete backgrounds at ClutchPoints. He has experience covering and writing on high school, collegiate, and professional sports.</address><h3 class="op-kicker">Miami Heat</h3><figure class="op-ad"></figure></header><p>The Sacramento Kings lost in the Play-in Tournament, so their 2024-25 season is over. Immediately after the loss, they <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/sacramento-kings/kings-news-monte-mcnair-fired-immediately-after-play-in-loss-mavericks">moved on from general manager Monte McNair</a>. The team has been stuck in mediocrity for far too long now, and it is time for the franchise to change that. Drastic changes might have to come this offseason, as the <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/chicago-bulls/bulls-trade-grade-for-zach-lavine-blockbuster">NBA trade deadline deal for Zach LaVine</a> didn’t elevate the team.</p><p>In fact, trading LaVine, only months after originally acquiring him, might be the move that the Kings need to make. When the Kings traded De’Aaron Fox, they didn’t receive a haul of draft picks because they added a fringe All-Star guard replacement, but it has now been proven on two different teams that LaVine and DeMar DeRozan don’t have a championship-caliber ceiling. Perhaps the Kings can recoup some draft picks this upcoming offseason. <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/sacramento-kings/kings-news-scott-perry-former-knicks-gm-after-firing-monte-mcnair">A new front office regime</a> might be ready to make the moves necessary. If Sacramento does trade LaVine, then a deal with the Miami Heat could make sense.</p><h2><b>Heat trade proposal for Zach LaVine</b></h2><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Zach-LaVine-1.jpg"><figcaption>Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images</figcaption></figure><p><b>Heat receive:</b> Zach LaVine</p><p><b>Kings receive:</b> Andrew Wiggins, Duncan Robinson, 2025 first-round pick (via Warriors)</p><p>Zach LaVine did have somewhat of a resurgence of a season this year, as he averaged 23.3 points per game and shot a career high 51.1% from the field. Prior to the season, he was borderline untradeable because of a <a href="https://www.spotrac.com/nba/player/_/id/15365/zach-lavine" rel="noopener">bad contract</a> and injury issues, but he played well enough to revitalize his trade value. That led to him being shipped to the Kings.</p><p>However, the Kings don’t have a championship core, and they might be better off blowing things up and embracing a full rebuild. Because LaVine is under contract for three more years at $44 million-plus each season, he won’t demand a huge trade haul. That contract will scare some teams off, but the Heat should consider trading for him because he can be acquired for relatively cheap.</p><p>Miami is in the market for a third star because they were <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/golden-state-warriors/warriors-news-jimmy-butler-heat-trade">forced to trade Jimmy Butler.</a> LaVine would provide the missing scoring punch that the team needs. The UCLA product is both one of the best 3-point shooters and one of the best dunkers in the NBA. This proposed trade allows the Heat to get off of a bad contract in their own right, as Duncan Robinson is making much more money than he should be. His 3-point shooting would be missed, but LaVine is arguably more lethal from deep, and he provides way more elsewhere than Robinson does.</p><p>Andrew Wiggins is also dealt in this deal. Wiggins is a solid player, but his All-Star season was clearly a fluke, and LaVine is a massive upgrade over him. In this era, most superstars are traded for multiple draft picks, but the Heat only have to let go of one draft pick in this deal because there will likely be few takers for LaVine. LaVine hasn’t proven that he can contribute to winning basketball, but he could break out in the “Heat Culture.”</p><h2><b>What is wrong with the Kings’ core?</b></h2><p>LaVine has the same flaws as his star teammates – DeRozan and Domantas Sabonis – in Sacramento. None of the three play all that much defense, so it doesn’t really matter that the Kings had a top 10 offense this season. DeRozan can still get buckets in the mid-range, and Sabonis is a double-double machine.</p><p>Nobody in Sacramento can get stops when need be, though. Wiggins and Robinson wouldn’t necessarily help this problem, although Wiggins is a solid defender, but those two are more so used in this deal to make the money work. The Kings should consider trading all of LaVine, DeRozan and Sabonis, and they should accumulate as many draft picks as possible in the process.</p><p>The Kings only get one first-rounder in this deal, but it allows the team to move forward and start a new era without LaVine’s mega contract on the books. Plus, the first-round pick that they add is in the 2025 NBA Draft, meaning the team could select a building block piece in this draft despite the fact that they owe the Atlanta Hawks a pick this year.</p><p>Trading Fox wasn’t enough, and neither will trading LaVine. The Kings need to look for trades involving DeRozan and Sabonis as well.</p><figure class="op-tracker"></figure></article>    </body></html>

Heat offseason trade proposal lands Zach LaVine after Kings eliminated from playoffs

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en">    <head>        <script>   (function(i, s, o, g, r, a, m) {     i["GoogleAnalyticsObject"] = r;     i[r] = i[r] || function() {       (i[r].q = i[r].q || []).push(arguments)     }, i[r].l = 1 * new Date();     a = s.createElement(o),       m = s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];     a.async = 1;     a.src = g;     m.parentNode.insertBefore(a, m)   })(window, document, "script", "https://www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js", "ga");   ga('create', 'UA-66147751-16', {     'storage': 'none',     'clientId': localStorage.getItem('ga:clientId')   });   ga(function(tracker) {     localStorage.setItem('ga:clientId', tracker.get('clientId'));   });   ga('set', 'checkProtocolTask', null);      ga('set', 'page', '/nba/sacramento-kings/kings-rumors-fired-gm-didnt-want-to-can-mike-brown-or-acquire-demar-derozan-zach-lavine');   ga('set', 'title', 'Kings rumors: Now-fired GM didn’t want to can Mike Brown or acquire DeMar DeRozan, Zach LaVine');   ga('send', 'pageview');</script>        <style type="text/css" media="all">            body {    background: transparent;    margin: 0px;}h1, h2, h3 {    color: #DDDDDD;    font-family: "SFUIText-Semibold";    margin: 30px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 21px;    line-height: 125%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}header {    margin: 0px;    height: 0px;    display: none;}p {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 15px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}p > img {    margin-left: -15px;    width: calc(100% + 30px);}a {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;    text-decoration: underline;}ul {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 3px 10px 3px 10px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}ol {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}img {    margin: 0px;    width: 100%;    height: auto;}blockquote {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Medium";    margin: 30px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 19px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}blockquote p {    margin: 0px;}.op-tracker, .op-ad {    display: none;    height: 0px;}article > figure {    margin: 0px;}figcaption {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 10px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 13px;}iframe {    width: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;    margin: 0px;    border: 0;}.vine-embed {    height: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;}.twitter-tweet, .instagram-media {    margin-left: 15px !important;    margin-right: 15px !important;    width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;}.clutchpoints-widget {    /*margin: 10px 15px 10px 15px !important;*/    /*margin-top: 1px !important;*/    padding-top: 10px;    /*margin-left: 15px !important;*/    /*margin-right: 15px !important;*/    /*width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;*/}        </style>        <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8" />    </head>    <body>        <article id="mvp-content-main"><header><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kings-owner-Vivek-Ranadive-L-and-general-manager-Monte-McNair-R-talk-during-warm-ups.jpg"><figcaption>© Bill Streicher-Imagn Images</figcaption></figure><h1>Kings rumors: Now-fired GM didn’t want to can Mike Brown or acquire DeMar DeRozan, Zach LaVine</h1><time class="op-published" datetime="2025-04-17T08:21:04-07:00">April 17th, 8:21am</time><time class="op-modified" datetime="2025-04-17T08:21:04-07:00">April 17th, 8:21am</time><address><a>Julian Ojeda</a>Julian Ojeda is an Orlando-based sports journalist with 3 years of professional writing under his belt, specializing in both NBA and NFL coverage. A devoted Orlando Magic fan, he deftly balances fervent fandom with insightful reporting, possessing a keen eye for compelling narratives.</address><h3 class="op-kicker">NBA</h3><figure class="op-ad"></figure></header><p>The <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/sacramento-kings/kings-news-monte-mcnair-fired-immediately-after-play-in-loss-mavericks">Sacramento Kings announced the dismissal of general manager Monte McNair</a> following a <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/sacramento-kings/kings-news-demar-derozan-admission-play-in-loss-mavericks">120-106 loss to the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA Play-In Tournament</a> on Wednesday night. The move comes amid growing internal tension regarding recent personnel decisions and the team’s direction.</p><p>According to a report by Sam Amick and Anthony Slater of The Athletic, McNair did not support firing head coach Mike Brown and had <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6286283/2025/04/17/kings-general-manager-monte-mcnair-fired/" rel="noopener">reservations</a> about the franchise’s pursuit of All-Star wings DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine.</p><p>“McNair didn’t want to fire Brown, league sources said, and there are internal questions about whether he really wanted to sign DeRozan or trade for LaVine,” the report stated.</p><p>DeRozan was signed last offseason to a three-year, $73.8 million deal in free agency. LaVine was acquired as part of a multi-team trade centered around the <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/sacramento-kings/kings-news-deaaron-fox-trade-spurs-zach-lavine-kings">Kings’ decision to send De’Aaron Fox to the San Antonio Spurs</a> prior to this year’s trade deadline.</p><h2><b>Tensions with ownership, loss of power led to Monte McNair’s exit after Play-In loss to Mavericks</b></h2><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Zach-LaVine-8-reacts-after-scoring-a-basket-during-the-second-quarter-against-the-Dallas-Mavericks.jpg"><figcaption>© Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images</figcaption></figure><p>The piece also described a growing rift between McNair and the Kings’ ownership group, particularly over the role of interim head coach Doug Christie. Majority owner Vivek Ranadivé is reportedly a strong supporter of Christie, further complicating McNair’s standing within the organization.</p><p>McNair, who joined the Kings in September 2020 after 13 years with the Houston Rockets, oversaw a breakthrough campaign in 2022-23 that ended the Kings’ 17-year playoff drought. That performance earned him NBA Executive of the Year honors. However, the Kings failed to make the playoffs in the two seasons that followed, despite splashy roster moves and the trade of their franchise cornerstone.</p><p>The report added that McNair had gradually lost his “decision-making power” in recent months, a dynamic that contributed to his departure from the franchise. It was described as a mutual parting, though multiple signs point to diminishing authority within Sacramento’s front office structure.</p><h2><b>Kings face pivotal offseason with GM search and coaching decision looming</b></h2><p>With McNair out, the Kings are expected to begin the search for a new general manager who will have input on the team’s next head coach. While no official decision has been made, Christie is reportedly in a strong position to retain the job on a permanent basis.</p><p>“Team sources said Christie is well-positioned to keep the job,” the report noted, though Christie himself acknowledged he has received no formal commitment.</p><p>Christie led Sacramento to a 27-24 record after taking over from Brown midseason. The team ended the year at 40-42, following a 13-18 start that included a five-game losing streak in late December.</p><p>Looking ahead, McNair may not be out of the NBA for long. He has longstanding ties with both the Houston Rockets and Philadelphia 76ers, and could be a candidate for front office roles with either organization. McNair previously worked alongside Rockets general manager Rafael Stone and maintains a close relationship with Sixers executive Daryl Morey, under whom he worked in Houston.</p><p>McNair’s departure marks another significant shift for a Kings franchise still searching for long-term stability after decades of front office turnover and playoff frustration.</p><figure class="op-tracker"></figure></article>    </body></html>

Kings rumors: Now-fired GM didn’t want to can Mike Brown or acquire DeMar DeRozan, Zach LaVine

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en">    <head>        <script>   (function(i, s, o, g, r, a, m) {     i["GoogleAnalyticsObject"] = r;     i[r] = i[r] || function() {       (i[r].q = i[r].q || []).push(arguments)     }, i[r].l = 1 * new Date();     a = s.createElement(o),       m = s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];     a.async = 1;     a.src = g;     m.parentNode.insertBefore(a, m)   })(window, document, "script", "https://www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js", "ga");   ga('create', 'UA-66147751-16', {     'storage': 'none',     'clientId': localStorage.getItem('ga:clientId')   });   ga(function(tracker) {     localStorage.setItem('ga:clientId', tracker.get('clientId'));   });   ga('set', 'checkProtocolTask', null);      ga('set', 'page', '/nba/cleveland-cavaliers/cavs-news-referee-admits-mistake-on-zach-lavine-shot-in-loss-vs-kings');   ga('set', 'title', 'Referee admits mistake on Zach Lavine shot in Cavs loss vs. Kings');   ga('send', 'pageview');</script>        <style type="text/css" media="all">            body {    background: transparent;    margin: 0px;}h1, h2, h3 {    color: #DDDDDD;    font-family: "SFUIText-Semibold";    margin: 30px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 21px;    line-height: 125%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}header {    margin: 0px;    height: 0px;    display: none;}p {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 15px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}p > img {    margin-left: -15px;    width: calc(100% + 30px);}a {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;    text-decoration: underline;}ul {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 3px 10px 3px 10px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}ol {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}img {    margin: 0px;    width: 100%;    height: auto;}blockquote {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Medium";    margin: 30px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 19px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}blockquote p {    margin: 0px;}.op-tracker, .op-ad {    display: none;    height: 0px;}article > figure {    margin: 0px;}figcaption {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 10px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 13px;}iframe {    width: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;    margin: 0px;    border: 0;}.vine-embed {    height: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;}.twitter-tweet, .instagram-media {    margin-left: 15px !important;    margin-right: 15px !important;    width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;}.clutchpoints-widget {    /*margin: 10px 15px 10px 15px !important;*/    /*margin-top: 1px !important;*/    padding-top: 10px;    /*margin-left: 15px !important;*/    /*margin-right: 15px !important;*/    /*width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;*/}        </style>        <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8" />    </head>    <body>        <article id="mvp-content-main"><header><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kings-guard-Zach-LaVine-dribbles.jpg"><figcaption>© Ken Blaze-Imagn Images</figcaption></figure><h1>Referee admits mistake on Zach Lavine shot in Cavs loss vs. Kings</h1><time class="op-published" datetime="2025-04-06T20:17:48-07:00">April 6th, 8:17pm</time><time class="op-modified" datetime="2025-04-06T20:17:48-07:00">April 6th, 8:17pm</time><address><a href="https://letterboxd.com/splooshpuhrty/films/by/your-rating/">Jedd Pagaduan</a>Jedd Pagaduan is a certified Clippers and Gunners fan, which means he's a very sports-traumatized individual. He now writes about sports instead as a form of therapy.</address><h3 class="op-kicker">Cleveland Cavaliers</h3><figure class="op-ad"></figure></header><p>On Sunday night, the <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/cleveland-cavaliers/cavs-chase-redemption-and-the-no-1-seed-in-high-stakes-showdown-vs-kings">Cleveland Cavaliers faced a desperate Sacramento Kings team</a> that needs a bit more cushion to book their place in the play-in tournament. And the Kings played with so much desperation that they managed to sweep the season series against the East-leading Cavs with a 120-113 win on Sunday. However, this victory did not come without its fair share of controversy.</p><p>In the fourth quarter, with the Kings leading by five, 116-111, with around 50 seconds left in the game, the Cavs were playing excellent defense, forcing Sacramento to hold the ball late in the shot clock.<a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/sacramento-kings/kings-news-zach-lavine-stunning-franchise-history-cavs-upset"> Zach LaVine, however, found a way to get into the paint</a> with the shot clock dwindling and made a layup to push the lead to seven. It did look as though LaVine failed to beat the shot clock buzzer, and a closer review of the play confirms that the Kings guard’s basket should not have stood.</p><p>On the floor, however, the referees thought otherwise, and didn’t even stop play to review the legality of LaVine’s basket. After the Cavs’ loss, the officials then owned up to their mistake, saying that they should have stopped play immediately after LaVine’s basket to <a href="https://x.com/nbaofficial/status/1909052670385824043?s=46&amp;t=vnLDgTn4yNZudl1UzUUjJA" rel="noopener">review the basket</a> and whether or not it should have stood. Suffice to say, it shouldn’t have.</p><p>“Well, we made a mistake. During live action we thought that LaVine released the ball prior to the expiration of the shot clock.  If we were going to review, we would have had to review it before the ball was legally touched on the floor during the throw in, right after the made basket,” referee crew chief Courtney Kirkland admitted during the Pool Report, via NBA.com.</p><p>While it is helpful to see referees admit their mistakes, this is all a moot point anyway, as nothing they can say can change the outcome of the game.</p><h2><b>Cavs have off night in loss to the Kings</b></h2><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Sacramento-Kings-guard-Zach-LaVine-8-drives-to-the-basket.jpg"><figcaption>Ken Blaze-Imagn Images</figcaption></figure><p>Even the best teams in the NBA have their off nights, and on Sunday night, the Cavs simply couldn’t get anything going, particularly on defense. They allowed the Kings to shoot 53.7 percent from the field and 42.4 percent from beyond the arc — with Zach LaVine finishing with 37 points on the night.</p><p>The firepower the Kings had simply could not be matched by the Cavs amid a poor shooting night from Darius Garland, who finished with nine points on 4-13 shooting from the field. Cleveland will be looking to get back on track when they face a hot Chicago Bulls team on Tuesday night.</p><figure class="op-tracker"></figure></article>    </body></html>

Referee admits mistake on Zach Lavine shot in Cavs loss vs. Kings

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en">    <head>        <script>   (function(i, s, o, g, r, a, m) {     i["GoogleAnalyticsObject"] = r;     i[r] = i[r] || function() {       (i[r].q = i[r].q || []).push(arguments)     }, i[r].l = 1 * new Date();     a = s.createElement(o),       m = s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];     a.async = 1;     a.src = g;     m.parentNode.insertBefore(a, m)   })(window, document, "script", "https://www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js", "ga");   ga('create', 'UA-66147751-16', {     'storage': 'none',     'clientId': localStorage.getItem('ga:clientId')   });   ga(function(tracker) {     localStorage.setItem('ga:clientId', tracker.get('clientId'));   });   ga('set', 'checkProtocolTask', null);      ga('set', 'page', '/nba/chicago-bulls/nba-news-the-revenge-game-bulls-vs-kings-didnt-belong-to-zach-lavine-demar-derozan');   ga('set', 'title', 'NBA news: The revenge game in Bulls vs. Kings didn’t belong to Zach LaVine or DeMar DeRozan');   ga('send', 'pageview');</script>        <style type="text/css" media="all">            body {    background: transparent;    margin: 0px;}h1, h2, h3 {    color: #DDDDDD;    font-family: "SFUIText-Semibold";    margin: 30px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 21px;    line-height: 125%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}header {    margin: 0px;    height: 0px;    display: none;}p {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 15px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}p > img {    margin-left: -15px;    width: calc(100% + 30px);}a {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;    text-decoration: underline;}ul {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 3px 10px 3px 10px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}ol {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}img {    margin: 0px;    width: 100%;    height: auto;}blockquote {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Medium";    margin: 30px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 19px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}blockquote p {    margin: 0px;}.op-tracker, .op-ad {    display: none;    height: 0px;}article > figure {    margin: 0px;}figcaption {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 10px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 13px;}iframe {    width: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;    margin: 0px;    border: 0;}.vine-embed {    height: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;}.twitter-tweet, .instagram-media {    margin-left: 15px !important;    margin-right: 15px !important;    width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;}.clutchpoints-widget {    /*margin: 10px 15px 10px 15px !important;*/    /*margin-top: 1px !important;*/    padding-top: 10px;    /*margin-left: 15px !important;*/    /*margin-right: 15px !important;*/    /*width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;*/}        </style>        <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8" />    </head>    <body>        <article id="mvp-content-main"><header><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/NBA-news-The-revenge-game-in-Bulls-vs.-Kings-didnt-belong-to-Zach-LaVine-or-DeMar-DeRozan.jpg"><figcaption>ClutchPoints</figcaption></figure><h1>NBA news: The revenge game in Bulls vs. Kings didn’t belong to Zach LaVine or DeMar DeRozan</h1><time class="op-published" datetime="2025-03-21T10:57:39-07:00">March 21st, 10:57am</time><time class="op-modified" datetime="2025-03-21T10:57:39-07:00">March 21st, 10:57am</time><address><a>Julian Ojeda</a>Julian Ojeda is an Orlando-based sports journalist with 3 years of professional writing under his belt, specializing in both NBA and NFL coverage. A devoted Orlando Magic fan, he deftly balances fervent fandom with insightful reporting, possessing a keen eye for compelling narratives.</address><h3 class="op-kicker">Chicago Bulls</h3><figure class="op-ad"></figure></header><p>The <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/sacramento-kings/kings-news-zach-lavine-shares-special-message-with-bulls-after-blockbuster-trade">Chicago Bulls handed the Sacramento Kings a 128-116 loss</a> Thursday night, but the headline didn’t belong to former Bulls stars Zach LaVine or DeMar DeRozan. Instead, it was Kevin Huerter, now with Chicago, who delivered a statement performance against his former team.</p><p>Traded from Sacramento to Chicago as part of the <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/sacramento-kings/zach-lavine-bold-predictions-bombshell-kings-trade">February multi-team deal that sent LaVine to the Kings and De’Aaron Fox to the San Antonio Spurs</a>, Huerter faced his old team for the first time since the deal. He responded with a season-high 25 points, seven assists, five rebounds, four steals, and a block while shooting 10-of-16 from the field and five-of-nine from three.</p><p>“100% a revenge game, 100% so it felt good – came out here with a dub,” Huerter <a href="https://x.com/MattGeorgeSAC/status/1902950393883107405" rel="noopener">told</a> ABC10 Sports following the win.</p><h2><b>Kevin Huerter finds closure in standout performance against former team</b></h2><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Kevin-Huerter-13-reacts-after-making-a-three-point-shot-during-the-fourth-quarter.jpg"><figcaption>© Ed Szczepanski-Imagn Images</figcaption></figure><p>When asked about the chip on his shoulder, he said, “We won’t get into details… just an old team, obviously getting moved mid-season, getting a good opportunity over here and came back and played well in a game that I wanted to play well.”</p><p>Huerter added that the performance offered a sense of closure.</p><p>“Yeah, no, that’ll feel good. I mean, this time will most likely change as all teams do in the NBA year-to-year, coaching staffs will change,” he said. “So, this one being against a team that I just came from and having a game like that definitely feels good. Obviously, it’s fresh on the mind, it happened a month ago so I’ll be excited to continue to come back and play here but I don’t think any of them will feel as sweet as this one did tonight.”</p><figure class="op-interactive"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p dir="ltr" lang="en">Kevin Huerter didn’t even try to pretend tonight wasn’t about revenge against the Sacramento Kings. 👇 <a href="https://t.co/uS7tSFjmB7">pic.twitter.com/uS7tSFjmB7</a></p><p>— Matt George (@MattGeorgeSAC) <a href="https://twitter.com/MattGeorgeSAC/status/1902950393883107405?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2025</a></p></blockquote><p><script async="" src="https://instagram.com/embed.js"></script></p></figure><p>While Huerter turned in a standout effort, it was Coby White who led all scorers. The Bulls guard posted 35 points, five assists, and a rebound on the night as Chicago opened its five-game road trip with a statement win.</p><h2><b>Bulls outpace DeMar DeRozan, Zach LaVine as Kings remain stuck in West playoff logjam</b></h2><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/DeMar-DeRozan-10-talks-with-guard-Zach-LaVine-8-during-a-timeout.jpg"><figcaption>© Erik Williams-Imagn Images</figcaption></figure><p>On the Kings’ side, DeRozan led Sacramento with 22 points, five assists, three rebounds, and a steal. LaVine struggled in his first matchup against his former team, finishing with eight points, five assists, a rebound, and a steal while shooting 2-for-9 from the field and 1-for-6 from three-point range.</p><p>Sacramento fell to 35-34 with the loss and continues to fight for playoff positioning in the tightly contested Western Conference. The Kings will remain home for the fifth game of their seven-game homestand when they host the Milwaukee Bucks (39-30) on Saturday night.</p><p>Chicago improved to 30-40 on the season with the win. The Bulls remain in the Play-In Tournament picture in the East and will next face the Los Angeles Lakers (43-26) at Crypto.com Arena on Saturday.</p><figure class="op-tracker"></figure></article>    </body></html>

NBA news: The revenge game in Bulls vs. Kings didn’t belong to Zach LaVine or DeMar DeRozan

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en">    <head>        <script>   (function(i, s, o, g, r, a, m) {     i["GoogleAnalyticsObject"] = r;     i[r] = i[r] || function() {       (i[r].q = i[r].q || []).push(arguments)     }, i[r].l = 1 * new Date();     a = s.createElement(o),       m = s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];     a.async = 1;     a.src = g;     m.parentNode.insertBefore(a, m)   })(window, document, "script", "https://www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js", "ga");   ga('create', 'UA-66147751-16', {     'storage': 'none',     'clientId': localStorage.getItem('ga:clientId')   });   ga(function(tracker) {     localStorage.setItem('ga:clientId', tracker.get('clientId'));   });   ga('set', 'checkProtocolTask', null);      ga('set', 'page', '/nba/sacramento-kings/kings-news-zach-lavine-shares-special-message-with-bulls-after-blockbuster-trade');   ga('set', 'title', 'Kings’ Zach LaVine shares ‘special’ message with Bulls after blockbuster trade');   ga('send', 'pageview');</script>        <style type="text/css" media="all">            body {    background: transparent;    margin: 0px;}h1, h2, h3 {    color: #DDDDDD;    font-family: "SFUIText-Semibold";    margin: 30px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 21px;    line-height: 125%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}header {    margin: 0px;    height: 0px;    display: none;}p {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 15px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}p > img {    margin-left: -15px;    width: calc(100% + 30px);}a {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;    text-decoration: underline;}ul {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 3px 10px 3px 10px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}ol {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}img {    margin: 0px;    width: 100%;    height: auto;}blockquote {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Medium";    margin: 30px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 19px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}blockquote p {    margin: 0px;}.op-tracker, .op-ad {    display: none;    height: 0px;}article > figure {    margin: 0px;}figcaption {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 10px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 13px;}iframe {    width: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;    margin: 0px;    border: 0;}.vine-embed {    height: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;}.twitter-tweet, .instagram-media {    margin-left: 15px !important;    margin-right: 15px !important;    width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;}.clutchpoints-widget {    /*margin: 10px 15px 10px 15px !important;*/    /*margin-top: 1px !important;*/    padding-top: 10px;    /*margin-left: 15px !important;*/    /*margin-right: 15px !important;*/    /*width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;*/}        </style>        <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8" />    </head>    <body>        <article id="mvp-content-main"><header><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Kings-news-Zach-LaVine-shares-special-message-with-Bulls-after-blockbuster-trade.jpg"></figure><h1>Kings’ Zach LaVine shares ‘special’ message with Bulls after blockbuster trade</h1><time class="op-published" datetime="2025-03-21T09:31:58-07:00">March 21st, 9:31am</time><time class="op-modified" datetime="2025-03-21T09:31:58-07:00">March 21st, 9:31am</time><address><a>Zachary Weinberger</a>Zachary Weinberger joined ClutchPoints in October 2023 as a Miami Heat reporter as well as an Associate Editor. He graduated from Florida Atlantic University in 2022 after covering the school's athletic programs since his freshman year at the FAU University Press, where he was a Sports Editor and Editor-in-Chief. He then covered FAU Sports for The Palm Beach Post.</address><h3 class="op-kicker">Chicago Bulls</h3><figure class="op-ad"></figure></header><p>It was no doubt a surprise when <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/sacramento-kings/kings-news-deaaron-fox-trade-spurs-zach-lavine-kings">Zach LaVine was traded to the Sacramento Kings</a> from the Chicago Bulls before the deadline as now he faced his former team Thursday night. Though the <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/sacramento-kings/sacramento-kings-fatal-flaw-must-fixed-2025-nba-all-star-break">Kings are working to fix their flaws this season</a>, the team would drop the game to the Bulls, 128-116, as LaVine spoke about facing his previous team.</p><p>LaVine spoke before the game about how much the city of Chicago meant to him and acknowledged that even though “there was drama,” the time there will be a<a href="https://www.nba.com/bulls/news/zach-lavine-ahead-of-bulls-kings-game-chicagos-always-going-to-be-a-special-place-in-my-heart" rel="noopener"> “special place”</a> in his heart according to NBA.com.</p><p>“I loved Chicago,” LaVine was saying after a recent Kings game before the Bulls play in Sacramento Thursday. “As much as there was drama, and I understand how big of a market it is… the status you have as a player with a contract like I had and being the “quote” face or pillar of the franchise when I came, a lot goes with it. But I tried to take that on my shoulders regardless of good or bad. Chicago’s always going to be a special place in my heart, and I hope the fan base, the organization know how much I deeply care for them.</p><p>“I grew up there,” LaVine continued. “I became a man there, I raised a family. We weren’t the most successful team in my time, but during those times of tribulations and the ups and downs you really find yourself and find who wants to win for the city and who cares for the team. It’s easy when you are winning; it’s hard when you are losing. But the guys stuck with it, the coaching staff all those times in the gym late, talking with teammates, meeting with coaches; that’s what never leaves you.”</p><h2><b>Kings’ Zach LaVine on once again playing with DeMar DeRozan</b></h2><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Zach-LaVine-on-March-20-2025.jpg"><figcaption>Ed Szczepanski-Imagn Images</figcaption></figure><p>As <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/sacramento-kings/kings-news-zach-lavine-earns-major-honor-84-point-week">LaVine has already had some great moments with the Kings</a>, he would finish the game Thursday just with eight points on two for nine shooting from the field, one of six from deep, to go with five assists. One of LaVine’s teammates in Sacramento is DeMar DeRozan who was also a teammate in Chicago as he also spoke about the greatness of him adjusting with him in a new location.</p><p>“Each of us have to be ourselves,” LaVine said. “There are going to be points in the game where either one of us can take over the offense and the other one needs to space and create, but we’ve said, ‘Be ourselves and do what we do best.’ I think I learned that with obviously playing with him. I don’t have to do anything outside myself. He’s incredible. DeMar’s a Hall of Fame player when it’s all said and done. In the fourth quarter when it slows down, he’s a guy you can give it to and know he’ll get a good shot every time and then vice versa with me; I can also be explosive.”</p><p>At any rate, the Kings are 35-34 which put them ninth in the Western Conference before they take on the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday.</p><figure class="op-tracker"></figure></article>    </body></html>

Kings’ Zach LaVine shares ‘special’ message with Bulls after blockbuster trade

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en">    <head>        <script>   (function(i, s, o, g, r, a, m) {     i["GoogleAnalyticsObject"] = r;     i[r] = i[r] || function() {       (i[r].q = i[r].q || []).push(arguments)     }, i[r].l = 1 * new Date();     a = s.createElement(o),       m = s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];     a.async = 1;     a.src = g;     m.parentNode.insertBefore(a, m)   })(window, document, "script", "https://www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js", "ga");   ga('create', 'UA-66147751-16', {     'storage': 'none',     'clientId': localStorage.getItem('ga:clientId')   });   ga(function(tracker) {     localStorage.setItem('ga:clientId', tracker.get('clientId'));   });   ga('set', 'checkProtocolTask', null);      ga('set', 'page', '/nba/sacramento-kings/is-zach-lavine-playing-tonight-kings-bulls-injury-report');   ga('set', 'title', 'Is Zach LaVine playing tonight? Kings vs. Bulls injury report');   ga('send', 'pageview');</script>        <style type="text/css" media="all">            body {    background: transparent;    margin: 0px;}h1, h2, h3 {    color: #DDDDDD;    font-family: "SFUIText-Semibold";    margin: 30px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 21px;    line-height: 125%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}header {    margin: 0px;    height: 0px;    display: none;}p {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 15px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}p > img {    margin-left: -15px;    width: calc(100% + 30px);}a {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;    text-decoration: underline;}ul {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 3px 10px 3px 10px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}ol {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}img {    margin: 0px;    width: 100%;    height: auto;}blockquote {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Medium";    margin: 30px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 19px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}blockquote p {    margin: 0px;}.op-tracker, .op-ad {    display: none;    height: 0px;}article > figure {    margin: 0px;}figcaption {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 10px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 13px;}iframe {    width: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;    margin: 0px;    border: 0;}.vine-embed {    height: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;}.twitter-tweet, .instagram-media {    margin-left: 15px !important;    margin-right: 15px !important;    width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;}.clutchpoints-widget {    /*margin: 10px 15px 10px 15px !important;*/    /*margin-top: 1px !important;*/    padding-top: 10px;    /*margin-left: 15px !important;*/    /*margin-right: 15px !important;*/    /*width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;*/}        </style>        <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8" />    </head>    <body>        <article id="mvp-content-main"><header><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Is-Zach-LaVine-playing-tonightKings-vs.-Bulls-injury-report.jpg"></figure><h1>Is Zach LaVine playing tonight? Kings vs. Bulls injury report</h1><time class="op-published" datetime="2025-03-20T13:58:11-07:00">March 20th, 1:58pm</time><time class="op-modified" datetime="2025-03-20T18:04:03-07:00">March 20th, 6:04pm</time><address><a>Malik Brown</a>Malik Brown is a multimedia reporter based in Atlanta who covers the Hawks and Dream for ClutchPoints. Malik has worked in entertainment and sports, and he specializes in the NBA and NFL.</address><h3 class="op-kicker">NBA</h3><figure class="op-ad"></figure></header><p>The Sacramento Kings will be facing the Chicago Bulls, and it looks like it will be <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/kings-news-zach-lavine-reacts-lighting-first-beam-after-bulls-trade">a reunion for Zach LaVine</a> as he goes up against his former team. LaVine missed the Kings’ last game for personal reasons, but they were still able to get the win against the Cleveland Cavaliers.</p><p>It’s not certain what those personal reasons were for LaVine, and if he wants to make it public he will, but the big question is will he be available to play against the Bulls. The Kings are in an important part of their season where they’re trying to stay within the Play-In, and it looks like they have a good chance to stay in the ninth seed.</p><p>Health and availability will be key for them down the stretch, and hopefully, LaVine will be able to come back and face his former team.</p><h2><b>Zach LaVine’s injury status vs. Bulls</b></h2><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Zach-LaVine.jpg"><figcaption>Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images</figcaption></figure><p>LaVine <a href="https://x.com/KCJHoop/status/1902806283469853041" rel="noopener">will be available</a> against the Bulls, according to reporter K.C. Johnson, which should be good news for the Kings.</p><p>“Zach LaVine isn’t on injury report and is scheduled to play after missing the Kings’ Wednesday victory for personal reasons,” Johnson wrote on X, formerly Twitter.</p><p>In 18 games with the Kings, LaVine is averaging 22.7 points and has helped the team stay afloat as they try to make a playoff run. It’s been an up-and-down season for the Kings, especially during the time when Mike Brown was fired and De’Aaron Fox was traded. Nobody expected those two things to happen coming into the season, but since then things have been going well for them. Being able to get LaVine in return for Fox was big, and it was obvious that they were still trying to compete with the move.</p><p>Doug Christie has come in as the interim coach and has done an exceptional job, and there’s a good chance that they could look at him as the permanent head coach during the offseason.</p><p>The one thing that the Kings have to hope is that they can stay healthy, and<a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/sacramento-kings/kings-news-domantas-sabonis-gets-injury-timeline-after-suffering-ankle-sprain"> it’s been rough for Domantas Sabonis</a> as he’s set to miss the next couple of days for the team with an ankle sprain. Sabonis is arguably the Kings’ best player and does everything on the floor for them, so not having him out there is tough, but they’ve shown that they can still win games.</p><p>With LaVine back, they should be able to take care of business against the Bulls, another team that is looking to sneak into the Play-In.</p><figure class="op-tracker"></figure></article>    </body></html>

Is Zach LaVine playing tonight? Kings vs. Bulls injury report

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en">    <head>        <script>   (function(i, s, o, g, r, a, m) {     i["GoogleAnalyticsObject"] = r;     i[r] = i[r] || function() {       (i[r].q = i[r].q || []).push(arguments)     }, i[r].l = 1 * new Date();     a = s.createElement(o),       m = s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];     a.async = 1;     a.src = g;     m.parentNode.insertBefore(a, m)   })(window, document, "script", "https://www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js", "ga");   ga('create', 'UA-66147751-16', {     'storage': 'none',     'clientId': localStorage.getItem('ga:clientId')   });   ga(function(tracker) {     localStorage.setItem('ga:clientId', tracker.get('clientId'));   });   ga('set', 'checkProtocolTask', null);      ga('set', 'page', '/nba/sacramento-kings/kings-news-zach-lavine-earns-major-honor-84-point-week');   ga('set', 'title', 'Kings star Zach LaVine earns major honor after 84 point week');   ga('send', 'pageview');</script>        <style type="text/css" media="all">            body {    background: transparent;    margin: 0px;}h1, h2, h3 {    color: #DDDDDD;    font-family: "SFUIText-Semibold";    margin: 30px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 21px;    line-height: 125%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}header {    margin: 0px;    height: 0px;    display: none;}p {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 15px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}p > img {    margin-left: -15px;    width: calc(100% + 30px);}a {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;    text-decoration: underline;}ul {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 3px 10px 3px 10px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}ol {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}img {    margin: 0px;    width: 100%;    height: auto;}blockquote {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Medium";    margin: 30px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 19px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}blockquote p {    margin: 0px;}.op-tracker, .op-ad {    display: none;    height: 0px;}article > figure {    margin: 0px;}figcaption {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 10px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 13px;}iframe {    width: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;    margin: 0px;    border: 0;}.vine-embed {    height: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;}.twitter-tweet, .instagram-media {    margin-left: 15px !important;    margin-right: 15px !important;    width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;}.clutchpoints-widget {    /*margin: 10px 15px 10px 15px !important;*/    /*margin-top: 1px !important;*/    padding-top: 10px;    /*margin-left: 15px !important;*/    /*margin-right: 15px !important;*/    /*width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;*/}        </style>        <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8" />    </head>    <body>        <article id="mvp-content-main"><header><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Kings-news-Zach-LaVine-earns-major-honors-after-84-point-week.jpg"></figure><h1>Kings star Zach LaVine earns major honor after 84 point week</h1><time class="op-published" datetime="2025-03-03T15:23:04-08:00">March 3rd, 3:23pm</time><time class="op-modified" datetime="2025-03-03T15:23:04-08:00">March 3rd, 3:23pm</time><address><a href="https://medium.com/bingeable">Sonny Giuliano</a>Sonny Giuliano is an experienced sports writer for ClutchPoints who has been covering the NFL, NCAA Football, NBA, and NCAA Basketball for well over a decade. Originally from the small town of Elba, New York, Sonny received his degree from Florida Gulf Coast University and currently resides in Cleveland, Ohio.</address><h3 class="op-kicker">NBA</h3><figure class="op-ad"></figure></header><p>It’s only been one month since the <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/kings-news-deaaron-fox-trade-spurs-zach-lavine-kings">Sacramento Kings made a potentially franchise altering trade for veteran swingman Zach LaVine</a>, and LaVine’s already accomplished something that he never was able to while playing for the Minnesota Timberwolves or Chicago Bulls. After a week in which the Kings went 3-0 with wins over Charlotte, Utah and Houston, LaVine is being rewarded for his contributions, having been named the <a href="https://x.com/NBAPR/status/1896660268710809646" rel="noopener">Western Conference Player of the Week</a> for Week 19 of the 2024-25 NBA season.</p><figure class="op-interactive"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sacramento Kings guard Zach LaVine and New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson have been named the NBA Western and Eastern Conference Players of the Week, respectively, for Week 19 of the 2024-25 season (Feb. 24 – March 2). <a href="https://t.co/zG3zQOyVWu">pic.twitter.com/zG3zQOyVWu</a></p><p>— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBAPR/status/1896660268710809646?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2025</a></p></blockquote><p><script async="" src="https://instagram.com/embed.js"></script></p></figure><p>LaVine started the week off with what was not just his best performance as a member of the Kings, but arguably the best performance of his 11-year NBA career. Against the Hornets, LaVine went 16-for-19 from the field and 8-for-9 from three-point range,<a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/kings-news-zach-lavine-nba-history-42-points"> scoring 42 points in a 130-88 win in front of the Kings home crowd</a>. From there, the Kings went on the road and came away with two crucial wins against the Jazz and the Rockets, helping Sacramento keep pace in the crowded Western Conference Playoff picture.</p><p>There are plenty of mouths to feed in Sacramento — including LaVine’s — but if this group can figure out how to play with each other, there’s certainly enough talent that more beams should be lit and the Kings should continue winning games. Where LaVine ultimately falls in the pecking order within a team that also features DeMar DeRozan, Domantas Sabonis and Malik Monk remains to be seen, but for interim head coach Doug Christie, it’s a nice luxury to have a guy like LaVine who could so quickly find his footing with the rest of his ball-dominant teammates.</p><figure class="op-tracker"></figure></article>    </body></html>

Kings star Zach LaVine earns major honor after 84 point week

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en">    <head>        <script>   (function(i, s, o, g, r, a, m) {     i["GoogleAnalyticsObject"] = r;     i[r] = i[r] || function() {       (i[r].q = i[r].q || []).push(arguments)     }, i[r].l = 1 * new Date();     a = s.createElement(o),       m = s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];     a.async = 1;     a.src = g;     m.parentNode.insertBefore(a, m)   })(window, document, "script", "https://www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js", "ga");   ga('create', 'UA-66147751-16', {     'storage': 'none',     'clientId': localStorage.getItem('ga:clientId')   });   ga(function(tracker) {     localStorage.setItem('ga:clientId', tracker.get('clientId'));   });   ga('set', 'checkProtocolTask', null);      ga('set', 'page', '/nba/sacramento-kings/kings-news-zach-lavine-nba-history-42-points');   ga('set', 'title', 'Zach LaVine makes NBA history with ridiculous 42-point game');   ga('send', 'pageview');</script>        <style type="text/css" media="all">            body {    background: transparent;    margin: 0px;}h1, h2, h3 {    color: #DDDDDD;    font-family: "SFUIText-Semibold";    margin: 30px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 21px;    line-height: 125%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}header {    margin: 0px;    height: 0px;    display: none;}p {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 15px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}p > img {    margin-left: -15px;    width: calc(100% + 30px);}a {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;    text-decoration: underline;}ul {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 3px 10px 3px 10px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}ol {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}img {    margin: 0px;    width: 100%;    height: auto;}blockquote {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Medium";    margin: 30px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 19px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}blockquote p {    margin: 0px;}.op-tracker, .op-ad {    display: none;    height: 0px;}article > figure {    margin: 0px;}figcaption {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 10px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 13px;}iframe {    width: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;    margin: 0px;    border: 0;}.vine-embed {    height: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;}.twitter-tweet, .instagram-media {    margin-left: 15px !important;    margin-right: 15px !important;    width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;}.clutchpoints-widget {    /*margin: 10px 15px 10px 15px !important;*/    /*margin-top: 1px !important;*/    padding-top: 10px;    /*margin-left: 15px !important;*/    /*margin-right: 15px !important;*/    /*width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;*/}        </style>        <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8" />    </head>    <body>        <article id="mvp-content-main"><header><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/IMG_1316.jpeg"></figure><h1>Zach LaVine makes NBA history with ridiculous 42-point game</h1><time class="op-published" datetime="2025-02-25T10:33:14-08:00">February 25th, 10:33am</time><time class="op-modified" datetime="2025-02-25T10:33:14-08:00">February 25th, 10:33am</time><address><a>David Yapkowitz</a>David Yapkowitz is an NBA Associate Editor at ClutchPoints. He is a credentialed reporter based in Los Angeles who covers the NBA/WNBA, NCAA/NCAAW and boys/girls high school basketball.</address><h3 class="op-kicker">NBA</h3><figure class="op-ad"></figure></header><p>The Sacramento Kings had a busy NBA trade deadline, <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/kings-news-zach-lavine-reacts-lighting-first-beam-after-bulls-trade">trading for Zach LaVine from the Chicago Bulls</a> while trading De’Aaron Fox to the San Antonio Spurs in a three-team trade. The Kings have gone 4-4 since acquiring LaVine, but had their best win of that stretch on Monday against the Charlotte Hornets. Zach LaVine made NBA history against the Hornets after dropping a season-high 42 points.</p><p>With his 42-point game, Zach LaVine <a href="https://x.com/StatMamba/status/1894257900341567895?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet" rel="noopener">became the first player</a> in NBA history to drop multiple 40-point games while have a 100 percent true shooting percentage, as per StatMamba. True shooting percentage is an advanced metric that encompasses field goal percentage, three-point percentage and free-throw percentage into one.</p><p>LaVine’s actual shooting percentage against the Hornets was 84.2 percent (16-of-19 from the field). He shot 8-of-9 (88.9 percent) from the three-point line and 2-of-3 (66.7 percent) from the free-throw line.</p><p>This was LaVine’s best game since joining the Kings. He also finished with seven rebounds, three assists and one steal. When the Kings traded for <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba/kings-news-zach-lavine-demar-derozan-reunion-moment-perfect">LaVine, they paired him up again with DeMar DeRozan</a> whom he played with on the Bulls. Both players have Southern California ties as well with LaVine having gone to UCLA and DeRozan going to rival USC.</p><h2><b>Zach LaVine joins Kings</b></h2><p>In recent seasons, LaVine has been one player who has seen his name on the trading block seemingly each deadline. And now, the Bulls finally decided to pull the trigger. After DeRozan left via a sign-and-trade in the offseason, and LaVine now gone, it would appear that the best move forward for the Bulls is a rebuild.</p><p>LaVine will now try and help the Kings reach the postseason after missing the playoffs last year. The Kings are currently 29-28 and 10th place in the Western Conference standings. That would be a spot in the play-in, but they’re only two games ahead of the Phoenix Suns.</p><p>A two-time All-Star, LaVine has appeared in eight games for the Kings so far, at just about 36 minutes per game. He’s been averaging 23.0 points, 3.3 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 1.0 steals with splits of 48.9 percent shooting from the field, 35.5 percent shooting from the three-point line and 91.4 percent shooting from the free-throw line.</p><p>Earlier this season, LaVine had been playing some of his best basketball, statistically, with the Bulls. He was shooting a career-high 51.1 percent from the field and a career-high 44.6 percent from the three-point line.</p><p>LaVine has only reached the playoffs once in his career, the 2021-22 season.</p><figure class="op-tracker"></figure></article>    </body></html>

Zach LaVine makes NBA history with ridiculous 42-point game

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en">    <head>        <script>   (function(i, s, o, g, r, a, m) {     i["GoogleAnalyticsObject"] = r;     i[r] = i[r] || function() {       (i[r].q = i[r].q || []).push(arguments)     }, i[r].l = 1 * new Date();     a = s.createElement(o),       m = s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];     a.async = 1;     a.src = g;     m.parentNode.insertBefore(a, m)   })(window, document, "script", "https://www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js", "ga");   ga('create', 'UA-66147751-16', {     'storage': 'none',     'clientId': localStorage.getItem('ga:clientId')   });   ga(function(tracker) {     localStorage.setItem('ga:clientId', tracker.get('clientId'));   });   ga('set', 'checkProtocolTask', null);      ga('set', 'page', '/kings-news-zach-lavine-teases-dunk-contest-return-ja-morant-call-to-arms');   ga('set', 'title', 'Kings’ Zach LaVine teases Dunk Contest return after Ja Morant’s call to arms');   ga('send', 'pageview');</script>        <style type="text/css" media="all">            body {    background: transparent;    margin: 0px;}h1, h2, h3 {    color: #DDDDDD;    font-family: "SFUIText-Semibold";    margin: 30px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 21px;    line-height: 125%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}header {    margin: 0px;    height: 0px;    display: none;}p {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 15px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}p > img {    margin-left: -15px;    width: calc(100% + 30px);}a {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;    text-decoration: underline;}ul {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 3px 10px 3px 10px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}ol {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}img {    margin: 0px;    width: 100%;    height: auto;}blockquote {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Medium";    margin: 30px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 19px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}blockquote p {    margin: 0px;}.op-tracker, .op-ad {    display: none;    height: 0px;}article > figure {    margin: 0px;}figcaption {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 10px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 13px;}iframe {    width: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;    margin: 0px;    border: 0;}.vine-embed {    height: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;}.twitter-tweet, .instagram-media {    margin-left: 15px !important;    margin-right: 15px !important;    width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;}.clutchpoints-widget {    /*margin: 10px 15px 10px 15px !important;*/    /*margin-top: 1px !important;*/    padding-top: 10px;    /*margin-left: 15px !important;*/    /*margin-right: 15px !important;*/    /*width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;*/}        </style>        <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8" />    </head>    <body>        <article id="mvp-content-main"><header><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Zach-LaVine-teases-Dunk-Contest-return-after-Ja-Morants-call-to-arms.jpg"></figure><h1>Kings’ Zach LaVine teases Dunk Contest return after Ja Morant’s call to arms</h1><time class="op-published" datetime="2025-02-16T12:12:08-08:00">February 16th, 12:12pm</time><time class="op-modified" datetime="2025-02-16T12:12:08-08:00">February 16th, 12:12pm</time><address><a>Malik Brown</a>Malik Brown is a multimedia reporter based in Atlanta who covers the Hawks and Dream for ClutchPoints. Malik has worked in entertainment and sports, and he specializes in the NBA and NFL.</address><h3 class="op-kicker">NBA</h3><figure class="op-ad"></figure></header><p>The NBA Slam Dunk Contest was again worth watching due to <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/magic-news-mac-mcclung-nba-history-after-winning-2025-all-star-dunk-contest">Mac McClung putting on a show</a>. After the contest, <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/nba-news-ja-morant-giannis-antetokounmpo-slam-dunk-contest-mac-mcclung">Ja Morant went on social media</a> and showed interest in participating next year while also lobbying for Zach LaVine and Aaron Gordon to join him. The Sacramento Kings guard heard the call, and he <a href="https://x.com/ZachLaVine/status/1891206088038502645" rel="noopener">had a response</a> to Morant that may get people excited.</p><p>“Thinking I might have too again,” LaVine wrote on X, formerly Twitter.</p><p>LaVine is a two-time NBA Slam Dunk contest winner, and he went on to defeat Gordon in both of those matchups. Some would say that was the last time the dunk contest was actually interesting and full of excitement. The last few years haven’t been the best, but McClung saved the day this year after dunking over a car.</p><p>Not only did LaVine and Morant show interest in competing next year, but Giannis Antetokounmpo also said that he would join if Morant did. It sounds like it may be up to Morant if any of the stars participate, but it’s hard to take them at their words right now. Nonetheless, McClung thinks that it would make for good competition, but he also hasn’t committed to participating again next season.</p><p>“I’m flattered. I think those guys are so fun to watch,” McClung said via The Athletic’s Joe Vardon. “I think people want to see bigger stars in it and I would love to see that. But I think it’s important for the people in it to want to do it.</p><p>“I was probably thinking about hanging it up after this one, but I never want to say never.”</p><p>It would be a treat to see some of the biggest stars compete in the dunk contest so All-Star Weekend can get back to the competitive nature that it once had.</p><figure class="op-tracker"></figure></article>    </body></html>

Kings’ Zach LaVine teases Dunk Contest return after Ja Morant’s call to arms

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en">    <head>        <script>   (function(i, s, o, g, r, a, m) {     i["GoogleAnalyticsObject"] = r;     i[r] = i[r] || function() {       (i[r].q = i[r].q || []).push(arguments)     }, i[r].l = 1 * new Date();     a = s.createElement(o),       m = s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];     a.async = 1;     a.src = g;     m.parentNode.insertBefore(a, m)   })(window, document, "script", "https://www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js", "ga");   ga('create', 'UA-66147751-16', {     'storage': 'none',     'clientId': localStorage.getItem('ga:clientId')   });   ga(function(tracker) {     localStorage.setItem('ga:clientId', tracker.get('clientId'));   });   ga('set', 'checkProtocolTask', null);      ga('set', 'page', '/sacramento-kings-nba-trade-deadline-grade-deaaron-fox-zach-lavine');   ga('set', 'title', 'Kings 2025 NBA trade deadline grade after De’Aaron Fox-Zach LaVine deal');   ga('send', 'pageview');</script>        <style type="text/css" media="all">            body {    background: transparent;    margin: 0px;}h1, h2, h3 {    color: #DDDDDD;    font-family: "SFUIText-Semibold";    margin: 30px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 21px;    line-height: 125%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}header {    margin: 0px;    height: 0px;    display: none;}p {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 15px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}p > img {    margin-left: -15px;    width: calc(100% + 30px);}a {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;    text-decoration: underline;}ul {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 3px 10px 3px 10px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}ol {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}img {    margin: 0px;    width: 100%;    height: auto;}blockquote {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Medium";    margin: 30px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 19px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}blockquote p {    margin: 0px;}.op-tracker, .op-ad {    display: none;    height: 0px;}article > figure {    margin: 0px;}figcaption {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 10px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 13px;}iframe {    width: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;    margin: 0px;    border: 0;}.vine-embed {    height: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;}.twitter-tweet, .instagram-media {    margin-left: 15px !important;    margin-right: 15px !important;    width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;}.clutchpoints-widget {    /*margin: 10px 15px 10px 15px !important;*/    /*margin-top: 1px !important;*/    padding-top: 10px;    /*margin-left: 15px !important;*/    /*margin-right: 15px !important;*/    /*width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;*/}        </style>        <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8" />    </head>    <body>        <article id="mvp-content-main"><header><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Sacramento-Kings-2025-NBA-trade-deadline-grade-after-De-Aaron-Fox-Zach-LaVine-deal.jpg"></figure><h1>Kings 2025 NBA trade deadline grade after De’Aaron Fox-Zach LaVine deal</h1><time class="op-published" datetime="2025-02-14T17:49:18-08:00">February 14th, 5:49pm</time><time class="op-modified" datetime="2025-02-14T17:49:18-08:00">February 14th, 5:49pm</time><address><a>Troy Finnegan</a>Troy Finnegan is an Associate Editor at ClutchPoints. He graduated from the University of Colorado Boulder in 2023 with a degree in journalism and minors in communications and sports media, as well as a critical sports studies certificate. He has had a passion for sports his entire life, and enjoys covering and writing about all sports.</address><h3 class="op-kicker">Mini-Editorials</h3><figure class="op-ad"></figure></header><p>The Sacramento Kings’ hands were tied at the trade deadline after star point guard De’Aaron Fox expressed his desire to be moved, which left the Kings without many options. In the end, the <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/kings-news-gm-gives-blunt-reason-for-deaaron-fox-trade">Kings traded Fox to the San Antonio Spurs</a> in a three-team deal with the Chicago Bulls, receiving Zach LaVine, Sidy Cissoko and three first-round picks and three second-round picks in the process.</p><p>The Kings were able to flip that return for more help in the middle, trading Cissoko and two of those second-rounders <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/kings-news-wizards-trade-jonas-valanciunas">to the Washington Wizards for center Jonas Valanciunas</a>. The Kings also acquired young wing Jake LaRavia from the Memphis Grizzlies to help out with their perimeter shooting.</p><p>The Fox trade left the Kings without a true point guard, and Malik Monk has had to handle a lot of the ball handling duties along with LaVine and DeMar DeRozan while they try to find a solution. After the deadline passed, the Kings attempted to fill that hole when they <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/kings-news-markelle-fultz-agrees-sacramento-contract">agreed to a deal with free agent guard Markelle Fultz</a>. Fultz is a former No. 1 overall pick who flamed out with the Philadelphia 76ers before having somewhat of a career resurgence with the Orlando Magic. He isn’t an elite scorer, but he should be able to impact the game in multiple ways for the Kings.</p><p>After all of those moves, the Kings have a much different roster than they did heading into the month of February. Did they come out better, worse, or about the same? Let’s dive into what the new-look roster looks like and how it fits together.</p><h2><b>Kings treading water after blockbuster trade</b></h2><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Zach-LaVine.jpg"><figcaption>Jerome Miron-Imagn Images</figcaption></figure><p>The <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/pelicans-news-cj-mccollum-makes-franchise-history-thrilling-ot-win-vs-kings">Kings are just 3-3 since swapping De’Aaron Fox for Zach LaVine</a>, and things have looked pretty similar to what they looked like with Fox in the lineup. LaVine is able to handle some of the point guard duties that Fox did while also providing off-ball value, but the end result has been the same for Sacramento. They are roughly a .500 team that plays a lot of high-scoring games with a very good offense and a pretty bad defense.</p><p>The offense hasn’t suffered even without a point guard, as LaVine is able to create shots for himself and still provides a ton of value on that end of the floor. The former Bulls star doesn’t help the Sacramento defense, which is still pretty poor. Even though some of the high point totals can be attributed to the fast pace that the Kings play at, their individual defenders are still not very good as a whole.</p><p>Those issues on defense aren’t helped much by the additions of LaRavia and Valanciunas, neither of whom would be considered elite on that end of the floor. While LaVine and LaRavia help out with Sacramento’s spacing after losing Kevin Huerter in the LaVine trade, but the defense is still a problem. In the six games that LaVine has played in, the Kings have allowed more than 125 points three times.</p><p>Heading into the All-Star break, the Kings are currently in a tie for 9th place in the Western Conference at 28-27. They are just 3.5 games out of sixth, so the chance is there for them to make a push. If Fultz can come in and get things a little bit more organized offensively, the Kings should have a more balanced roster <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/wizards-trade-grade-jonas-valanciunas-deal">with the addition of Valanciunas</a> in the middle and the extra shooting on the wing. However, the defense is going to remain a problem all season, and that caps the ceiling for this team.</p><p>The fact is that these could have been a bunch of deadline moves that didn’t really change this Kings team’s trajectory. However, Sacramento still did well to recoup another star and still make some sound moves on the fringes at the deadline where their leverage was severely hampered by Fox wanting out. LaVine is under contract through next season and has a player option for 2026-27, so the Kings will have the opportunity to build something with this core in the coming years.</p><p><b>Grade: B</b></p><figure class="op-tracker"></figure></article>    </body></html>

2025-26 SEASON STATS
PTS	REB	AST	BLK	STL
31.0	2.7	0.7	0.3	-

2025-26 SEASON STATS
PTS	REB	AST	BLK	STL
31.0	2.7	0.7	0.3	-

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