According to NBA insider K.C. Johnson of NBC Sports Chicago, the Chicago Bulls are still seeking a strong return in a Zach LaVine trade.
The Bulls will not trade LaVine just to get rid of him if they don’t get the return they are looking for.
“To this point, a source said, the Bulls haven’t moved off their stance of seeking a strong return for LaVine,” Johnson wrote. “In other words, at least as of recently, the Bulls aren’t looking to move LaVine simply as a cost-saving move or in ‘addition by subtraction’ thinking.”
According to NBA insider James L. Edwards III of The Athletic, the Bulls and Detroit Pistons have discussed a LaVine trade. LaVine is expected to miss at least two weeks with a right ankle sprain. He sprained his ankle against the Toronto Raptors on January 18.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zach LaVine, Chicago Bulls Updates
A two-time All-Star, LaVine is averaging 19.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 0.8 steals and 0.3 blocks this season while shooting 45.2% from the field, 34.9% from 3 and 85.4% from the free-throw line. He’s making $40.1 million.
LaVine signed a five-year, $215 million contract with the Bulls in July 2022. He will make $43 million next season and $45 million in 2025-26.
LaVine has a plus-minus of -92 this season. Since the Bulls have played better without the Washington native in the lineup, LaVine’s trade value is practically non-existent.
The Los Angeles Lakers don’t plan to trade for LaVine, sources told NBA Analysis Network, even though LeBron James and Anthony Davis have the same agent (Rich Paul of Klutch Sports Group). The New York Knicks are also not interested in pursuing a LaVine trade.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zach LaVine, Chicago Bulls Updates
LaVine has career averages of 20.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 0.9 steals and 0.3 blocks with the Minnesota Timberwolves and Bulls. Most people around the NBA believe Chicago will not be able to trade LaVine this season.
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