SACRAMENTO, Calif. — As Zach LaVine gets ready to make his debut with the Sacramento Kings against the Orlando Magic, he has conveyed an important message to the fans. LaVine is filled with enthusiasm about this new chapter and recognizes the significance of the opportunity presented to him. He expressed his commitment to giving his all to the team and the city, acknowledging the investment of time and money fans dedicate to supporting their team. “I’m going to be right there with them and do everything I can for the city,” LaVine shared during his introductory press conference following his trade from the Chicago Bulls.
LaVine, who was selected 13th overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 2014 NBA Draft, has a deep appreciation for his new team. His ties to Sacramento run deep, as he had a workout with the Kings before entering the league, and has familial connections to California, where he also owns a home in Newport Beach. Notably, in 2018, he signed a four-year, $78 million offer sheet with Sacramento, but the Bulls matched the offer at that time.
Additionally, both LaVine and Kings interim coach Doug Christie hail from Seattle, creating another layer of familiarity. LaVine acknowledged his long-standing admiration for the Kings franchise, stating, “I’ve been a fan of (the Sacramento Kings) for a long time. I thought I was going to sign here six years ago.” He further emphasized his good relationships with former players from the team and his understanding of the regional culture due to his West Coast roots.
LaVine, a two-time NBA All-Star, was acquired by Sacramento in a three-team trade involving the Bulls and the San Antonio Spurs. As part of the transaction, the Kings (currently holding a record of 25-24) sent Kevin Huerter to Chicago, while Zach Collins joined the Bulls from the Spurs. The trade also involved other players, including Jordan McLaughlin moving to the Spurs and Sidy Cissoko going from the Spurs to the Kings. Furthermore, Sacramento secured six future draft picks—three first-round and three second-round picks.
Kings general manager Monte McNair praised LaVine as an “incredible talent” and highlighted his ability as a shot-maker, indicating that he brings a unique presence to the court. LaVine is currently averaging 24 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.5 assists over 34.1 minutes in 42 games this season. He ranks fifth in the league for 3-point shooting percentage and boasts the highest field-goal percentage from outside the arc among players with at least 100 successful 3-pointers this season.
In his new chapter with the Kings, LaVine will be reuniting with DeMar DeRozan, who played alongside him for three seasons with the Bulls. They are both eager to combine their skills in the Western Conference. DeRozan remarked, “It just shows you how crazy this business works and how it comes around full circle.” He expressed anticipation for the synergy between LaVine and his new teammates, as well as the excitement of having fans witness his talents on the court.
