Sacramento Kings Face Major Setback as Sabonis and LaVine Undergo Season-Ending Surgeries
The Sacramento Kings have confirmed that they will be without their two highest-paid players for the remainder of the season, as Domantas Sabonis and Zach LaVine each underwent season-ending surgeries. Domantas Sabonis had surgery to address a lingering meniscus injury in his left knee, while Zach LaVine underwent surgery to repair a tendon tear in his finger. As of now, the Kings hold the NBA's worst record at 12-44, shifting their focus towards future planning amid a competitive tank race for lottery odds. Key Points: Sabonis averaged 15.8 points and 11.4 rebounds per game but managed only 19 appearances this season after trying to play through his injury. His name frequently surfaced in trade rumors, particularly involving the Toronto Raptors and Washington Wizards, but he ultimately stayed in Sacramento. LaVine, the team's leading scorer with 19.2 points per game, played in 39 games before suffering his finger injury in early February. He faces a crucial decision this summer regarding his future, as he can either pursue a new long-term deal or opt for his $48.9 million player option. The Kings had not anticipated being part of the tank race this season, having made significant moves last summer, including signing Dennis Schröder to a three-year, $45 million deal. However, their veteran-heavy roster failed to gel, leading to the early termination of the Schröder deal as they sunk to the bottom of the standings.
Source: CBS Sports - 2026-02-18