Kings Star Zach LaVine Out for Season After Surgery

The 30-year-old guard will miss the rest of the 2025-26 regular season.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Sacramento Kings guard Zach LaVine will undergo surgery on his right hand and miss the remainder of the 2025-26 NBA regular season, according to NBA insider Chris Haynes. LaVine, the Kings' leading scorer, was acquired from the Chicago Bulls just over a year ago in a three-team trade.

Why it matters

LaVine's injury is a significant blow to the Kings, who were hoping to build on their success this season and make a playoff push. The loss of their top scorer will make it more challenging for the team to maintain their position in the Western Conference standings.

The details

LaVine, 30, was averaging 19.2 points per game on 47.9% shooting in 31.4 minutes per game for the Kings this season. He was acquired from the Chicago Bulls in a three-team trade that sent De'Aaron Fox to the Spurs and Kevin Huerter, Zach Collins, Tre Jones, and draft picks to the Bulls. LaVine will be a free agent after next season, but could opt for free agency this summer.

  • On February 14, 2026, NBA insider Chris Haynes reported that LaVine will undergo surgery and miss the rest of the 2025-26 regular season.

The players

Zach LaVine

A 30-year-old guard for the Sacramento Kings who was acquired from the Chicago Bulls in a trade just over a year ago. He was the Kings' leading scorer this season, averaging 19.2 points per game.

Chris Haynes

An NBA insider who reported the news of LaVine's injury and upcoming surgery.

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What they’re saying

“The Sacramento Kings will lose one of their star players for the rest of the regular season, adding to the list of misfortunes this year.”

— Chris Haynes, NBA Insider (USA TODAY)

What’s next

The Kings will need to adjust their lineup and rotations to account for LaVine's absence for the remainder of the regular season. The team's playoff hopes may hinge on how they respond to this significant injury.

The takeaway

Zach LaVine's season-ending injury is a major setback for the Sacramento Kings, who were counting on the veteran guard to help lead them to the playoffs. The team will need to find ways to overcome this loss and continue their push for a postseason berth.