Kings' LaVine scores 20 in loss to Bucks after 9-game absence
Sacramento Kings guard Zach LaVine came off the bench during Sunday's 115-98 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks.
The two-time All-Star tallied 20 points in 36 minutes after missing nine games due to a left ankle injury.
LaVine hadn't played since he landed awkwardly on a drive into the lane during a 117-103 defeat by the Minnesota Timberwolves on Dec. 14.
LaVine returned to face a team he's been linked to ahead of the Feb. 5 trade deadline. The Bucks are still reportedly looking to recruit offensive firepower in support of two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo.
The 30-year-old LaVine is averaging 20.2 points on 48.7% shooting in 23 games this season.
The Kings went 2-7 in his absence and sit 14th in the Western Conference with an 8-28 record after Sunday's visit from the Bucks.
Domantis Sabonis remained out for the Kings with a partial meniscus tear in his left knee. The three-time All-Star has missed the last 22 games.