As the Sacramento Kings struggle to find a market for Zach LaVine, the Golden State Warriors’ decision to pivot to Jimmy Butler at last season’s trade deadline continues to look like one of the front office’s most astute moves in recent memory.
SAN FRANCISCO – In the high-stakes world of NBA transactions, the deals you don’t make often prove as consequential as the ones you do. For the Golden State Warriors, their decision to bypass Zach LaVine in favor of Jimmy Butler is emerging as a textbook case of shrewd roster construction.
Golden State Warriors v Phoenix Suns
Last season, LaVine’s name frequently surfaced in trade rumors with the Warriors and Kings as the only serious suitors. However, according to NBA insider Jake Fischer, the market for the former Bulls star has now “collapsed,” leaving Sacramento with the daunting task of moving a player owed $47 million this season and $48 million next season.
While LaVine’s scoring credentials are undeniable – averaging 21.4 points on 39.8% three-point shooting this season – his massive contract and limited defensive impact have made him virtually untradeable without significant concessions.
“*There could potentially be a market for LaVine if he was willing to waive his player option for the 2026-27 season,*” Fischer reported via The Stein Line. “However, no matter what, Sacramento will have an exceedingly difficult time moving his contract.“
The contrast with Butler’s situation in Golden State could not be more striking. Though Butler is set to earn $110 million over the next two seasons, he has delivered transformative two-way impact that aligns perfectly with the Warriors’ championship aspirations.
Where LaVine represents an expensive, one-dimensional scorer, Butler has elevated Golden State on both ends of the court. His leadership, defensive versatility, and clutch performance have proven invaluable for a Warriors team that currently sits at 11-4 and looks every bit the championship contender.
The Warriors’ front office, led by Mike Dunleavy Jr., demonstrated critical discipline in recognizing that while LaVine’s scoring might have provided a temporary offensive boost, Butler’s all-around game and championship pedigree offered the sustainable value necessary for long-term success.
As the Kings face the consequences of their acquisition, the Warriors can reflect on a decision that may have preserved their financial flexibility while securing the perfect complementary star to their core of Stephen Curry and Draymond Green.
