Sacramento Kings star Zach LaVine will undergo season-ending surgery on his right hand following the NBA All-Star break, effectively ending his 2025-26 campaign.
The procedure comes after LaVine missed the last three games with a right fifth finger tendon injury.
This development adds another significant blow to a Kings team already struggling with injuries and a lengthy losing streak. With this injury, it could very well mark the end of LaVine’s time in Sacramento as well.
Key Points
Zach LaVine to undergo season-ending surgery on his right hand.
The procedure will take place after the All-Star break.
LaVine has missed the last three games due to a tendon injury.
His season averages were 19.2 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.3 assists.
The Kings currently hold the NBA’s worst record and are on a 14-game losing streak.
LaVine holds a $48.9 million player option for the upcoming season.
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Zach LaVine’s Time on the Sacramento Kings is Coming to An End
NBA insider Chris Haynes reported that LaVine’s right hand injury necessitates surgery, sidelining him for the remainder of the season. The injury was initially described as right pinky soreness but was later clarified as a tendon issue.
This marks a premature end to a season that has seen LaVine average 19.2 points per game, his lowest scoring output since the 2017-18 season. His assist and rebound numbers are also at career lows.
The Kings have been plagued by injuries throughout the 2025-26 season, struggling to maintain a consistent lineup. The team is currently tied for its longest losing streak in franchise history, having lost 14 consecutive games heading into the All-Star break. With a 12-44 record, they hold the worst standing in the league. The absence of LaVine further complicates their already challenging situation.
LaVine, a two-time All-Star, is in the fourth year of a significant contract and holds a $48.9 million player option for the next season. The team acquired LaVine last season in a trade that sent De’Aaron Fox to the San Antonio Spurs. While LaVine has a player option, it seems unlikely he will want to fully stick around on a rebuilding Sacramento team, and will likely look to try and land on a contender for 2026.
Given the team’s struggles and LaVine’s injury, trade rumors are likely to resurface in the offseason. The Kings may look to shift their focus towards developing younger talent for the remainder of the season.
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