On a day he could have re-energized his frustrated fan base with a strong show of leadership, Karnišovas essentially ceded control with one big, “We’ll see what happens.”

It was arguably the best performance in a Kings uniform thus far for Zach LaVine, who was acquired from the Chicago Bulls shortly before last week's trade deadline. LaVine finished the game with 22 points and helped “light the beam” after the game, alongside new teammates Jake LaRavia and Jonas Valaciunas.

CHICAGO — The team charter landed back in Chicago following the Bulls’ road loss against the Detroit Pistons when news spread that Zach LaVine had been traded to Sacramento.

“Karnišovas clarifies this: Says he won’t stand in way of young players making playoff run, said that’s sign of development and growth,” K.C. Johnson said in a post. “Understands if they don’t make playoffs, their draft pick can be better.”