A new report claims that both the Chicago Bulls and star guard Zach LaVine are ready to move on from each other and a trade could be made soon.
Over the last seven seasons, Zach LaVine has developed into a legitimate All-Star level two guard for the Chicago Bulls. He has averaged over 20 points a game for the last six years and peaked at 27.4 per game in 2020-21. However, despite being a key part of the franchise’s resurgence two years ago, things have soured for LaVine in Chi-Town.
After the organization decided to give him a massive five-year, $215 million contract two summers ago in free agency, a schism developed between the team and player last season. However, the trade deadline came and went earlier this year, as well as the offseason, and the two-time All-Star remained in Chicago. Yet, he may not be wearing white and red for much longer.
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On Tuesday, Stadium NBA insider Shams Charania reported that both sides of the situation are now “open to exploring” a potential trade, and the Bulls management could speak with rival general managers today since many executives are in Chicago at the 2023 State Farm Champions Classic.
The Bulls have never been the same since losing Lonzo Ball two years and after a poor showing last season, and the team being off to a 4-7 start in 2023-24, it looks like Chicago is done with the Zach LaVine-DeMar DeRozan experiment.
If the organization were to move him in the next few weeks, here are five teams that could pursue the 28-year-old star.
5 potential destinations for Zach LaVine in a rare November blockbuster trade
Los Angeles Lakers
There have been rumblings since last season of the Los Angeles Lakers interest in LaVine. With the team off to a sluggish start and the strategy of depth over adding another star not being as successful this season, now could be the time to pull the trigger on a deal. The question is does LA have enough assets to make a trade worth it for Chicago?
- Zach LaVine stats (2023): 21.9 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 3.0 APG, 0.8 SPG, 31% 3PT
Indiana Pacers
The Indiana Pacers have been one of the surprise teams in the league this season and could be a star away from being an actual title contender. Behind All-Star Tyrese Haliburton the Pacers are deep and young, but they lack a second elite scorer and Zach LaVine could be a perfect fit.
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Miami Heat
The Miami Heat failed to make a trade for Damian Lillard this summer and still needs a proven All-Star to team up with Jimmy Butler. While Tyler Herro has played very well this season, that is more likely a hot start than evidence of a new star on the rise. LaVine as the primary scorer with Butler being the finisher could be a dynamite combo in South Beach.
Oklahoma City Thunder
The Oklahoma City Thunder are a talented young team on the rise as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander evolves into one of the new faces of the league. However, like the Pacers, they need another veteran scorer who can force the defense to loosen up their focus on SGA. Plus, they have the money to bring on his deal without having to send out much money in return.
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Orlando Magic
The Orlando Magic are a less successful version of OKC as a talented young squad that is on the rise. Paulo Banchero is a nice developing star, but it is unclear if he can be a true number one. While that is decided LaVine could serve as the top scorer to make life easier for Banchero and fellow prospect Franz Wagner.