The Milwaukee Bucks have reportedly conducted recent due diligence on Kings guard Zach LaVine, sources told Sam Amick of The Athletic, continuing the team’s interest in bolstering their backcourt.
LaVine, 30, is averaging 20.6 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists over 22 games this season for Sacramento, with a player option of $48.9 million for 2026-27, making his salary a significant hurdle in any potential trade.
Amick noted that while LaVine could help several contending teams, his $47.4 million contract this season means the Kings would likely require draft assets or additional compensation to facilitate a deal.
Milwaukee, 11–15 in 2025-26, is seeking offensive firepower to support Giannis Antetokounmpo, who leads the Bucks with 28.9 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game despite missing stretches due to injury.
LaVine’s scoring and perimeter creation could address Milwaukee’s need for consistent outside shooting and secondary playmaking, complementing Kevin Porter Jr. and Kyle Kuzma in the rotation.
Sacramento, 6–19 this season, is in the midst of a rebuilding phase under first-year GM Scott Perry, who would need to weigh short-term value against long-term flexibility before moving a core veteran.
The Kings’ star guard has been a reliable scoring option, but his high salary complicates trade scenarios, forcing the Bucks or any suitor to balance immediate impact with the cost of moving assets and matching contracts.
While LaVine’s offensive production remains valuable, league sources suggest that any transaction would require careful structuring, including potential draft picks or young players to offset the financial burden.
With the trade deadline approaching, Milwaukee’s front office continues to explore ways to maximize its championship window while managing long-term roster construction, keeping LaVine on the radar but far from a certainty.
