Heat lose opportunity to acquire Zach LaVine as Kings retain him

The Miami Heat's pursuit of Zach LaVine has ended after the Sacramento Kings decided against a buyout of his contract. LaVine, a two-time All-Star, opted into his $48.9 million player option and will remain a significant part of the Kings' lineup. Previously mentioned as a potential option for Miami, his retention means the Heat must seek other scoring alternatives following the departures of Tyler Herro and Norman Powell. Miami acquired Giannis Antetokounmpo from Milwaukee but lost pivotal backcourt production along with Herro and Powell. The Heat are now exploring interest in DeMar DeRozan and Bradley Beal, who remain unrestricted free agents but come with varied fit and injury concerns.

• 8:24 PMYahoo Sports — Heat Get Bad News on Potential 2-Time All-Star Scoring Option