NBA Rumors: The team going after Zach LaVine following the elimination of the Sacramento Kings in the Play-In

The Sacramento Kings' season ended prematurely with a loss in the Play-In, leading the franchise to part ways with general manager Monte McNair. After years of mediocre results, they may need to make bold moves this offseason to break out of the stagnation.

The mid-season acquisition of Zach LaVine didn't push them to the top, and now, trading him just months after acquiring him might be the necessary reset. When Sacramento traded De'Aaron Fox, they didn't secure a key draft pick in return because they prioritized an All-Star caliber replacement like LaVine. However, history has shown that pairing LaVine with DeMar DeRozan does not translate to championship success.

If the new front office of the Kings decides to pivot, acquiring draft assets by trading LaVine could be the best way forward. A potential partner? The Miami Heat. The Florida franchise would receive the shooting guard, while Sacramento would land Andrew Wiggins, Duncan Robinson, and a first-round pick for this year's 2025 Draft (via the Golden State Warriors).

LaVine has boosted his value this season, averaging 23.3 points per game with a 51.1% field goal percentage, the best of his career. After being considered nearly untouchable due to injuries and a hefty contract, his strong play made him a viable trade piece, leading to his move to Sacramento.

The reason the trade is possible

But with the Kings far from title contention, a complete rebuild could be the smartest approach. LaVine's contract (three years, over 44 million dollars annually) limits his return, but Miami could be the ideal destination. The Heat, now without Jimmy Butler, need a third star, and LaVine's elite scoring - both from the perimeter and driving to the hoop - would fill a significant void.

This deal would also help Miami shed Duncan Robinson's overvalued contract. While Robinson's shooting would be missed, LaVine is just as dangerous from beyond the arc and brings much more versatility. For the Kings, acquiring Wiggins, Robinson, and a future first-round pick could kick off a much-needed rebuilding process.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Rumores NBA: El equipo que va a por Zach LaVine tras la eliminación de los Sacramento Kings en el Play-In