The Sacramento Kings' acquisition of Zach LaVine is still a mystery for some NBA fans. Before the NBA trade deadline kicked off, rumors that De'Aaron Fox might be traded were already spreading, but everyone was shocked when LaVine was involved in the deal. For Kevin Garnett, this was a win-win for the struggling Kings.

In an aggressive attempt to remain competitive, Sacramento traded for a two-time All-Star from the Chicago Bulls. The Kings now expect LaVine to be the puzzle piece that complements their postseason push.

Zach LaVine's Impact on the Kings' Offense

Kevin Garnett Believes Sacramento Kings Could Be a Legit Playoff Kevin Garnett Believes Sacramento Kings Could Be a Legit Playoff
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Prior to the trade, LaVine was producing quality numbers for the Bulls, scoring 24.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game while shooting 51.1% from the field, 44.6% from beyond three, and 79.7% from the free-throw line. After a subpar 2023-24 season, according to Sports Illustrated, LaVine returned strong this year and seeks to find his All-Star self again.

LaVine is reunited with former Bulls teammate DeMar DeRozan in a revamped dynamic duo with Domantas Sabonis and Malik Monk. The Kings had high hopes going into the season, but their up-and-down play has them ninth in the Western Conference with a 28-27 record as of the All-Star break. They are currently tied with the Golden State Warriors.

NBA Legend Kevin Garnett Weighs in on Kings' Potential

Despite their developing chemistry, some think Sacramento can turn it around. NBA icon and 15-time All-Star Kevin Garnett recently weighed in on the Kings' signing of LaVine, making a bold prediction regarding their playoff potential.

"Zach LaVine trade ain't nobody talk about," Garnett told Paul Piece in a KG Certified interview. "That's going to help Sac. Zach LaVine can come in and get buckets. Sac can make the playoffs. You see how Sac playing?"

Early Struggles But Playoff Potential

Since Zach LaVine became a member of the team, the Kings have played 3-3. Though his statistics are still good—averaging 21.5 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 5.0 assists—his three-point percentage has slid to 26.1%.

As he continues to become adjusted to Sacramento's system, LaVine is sure to be an even more menacing scoring threat. That's not going to be easy, for sure.

The Kings' most pressing issue has been their rotation on defense, especially when Monk, LaVine, and DeRozan are on the court together. But the firepower on offense can't be questioned, and if they can step up on that side of the ball, Sacramento might be an unstoppable opponent during the playoffs.

Interim Head Coach Doug Christie's Influence

Since taking over as interim head coach, Doug Christie has proven that he can guide the Kings to the playoffs. With a star-studded core of LaVine, DeRozan, Sabonis, and Monk, complemented by key role players such as Keegan Murray, Keon Ellis, Jonas Valanciunas, Trey Lyles, and newly-signed Markelle Fultz, Sacramento possesses the pieces to make a legitimate playoff run.

Kenny "The Jet" Smith believes that the Kings should reward Christie with a title change, per NBC Sports.

Will the Kings Prove Garnett Right?

Kevin Garnett's optimism with the Kings should also bring optimism to fans that the team can make some noise in the Western Conference. If LaVine can step his game up and Sacramento shores up on defense, they might not only gain a playoff spot but become the dark-horse contender.