Two popular buyout ideas appear to be going nowhere.
Marc Stein reported that the Portland Trail Blazers have no current plans to buy out Jrue Holiday, despite speculation that such a move could send him back into the market. Stein also reported that the same applies to Zach LaVine in Sacramento, with one source close to the process saying “no buyout” is being discussed.
The Holiday part matters because Portland has been messaging for some time that it wants to keep him. That stance has apparently held even after the Blazers traded for Ja Morant and with Damian Lillard positioned for a comeback after missing a full season because of an Achilles tear.
It also shuts down a convenient rumor route for contenders. Holiday would immediately become one of the most chased guards on the market if he were released, especially for teams looking for playoff defense, ball pressure and veteran handling without building a trade package.
LaVine's situation is different, but the message is similar. According to Stein, the Kings are operating under the premise that LaVine will start the season in Sacramento. That does not eliminate future trade conversations, but it pushes back against the idea that a quick buyout exit is already forming.
Stein also noted that Portland is not currently pursuing free agent wing DeMar DeRozan, despite reports to the contrary. Taken together, the update is less about a completed move and more about closing doors. Holiday, LaVine and DeRozan have all been pulled into offseason speculation, but this report leaves Portland and Sacramento on a much slower timetable.
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