Zach LaVine has been one of the most consistent offensive performers to start the 2025 calendar year, scoring 30 or more points in all five of the Bulls’ games. Despite his stellar play, trade interest for the 29-year-old All-Star appears to have stagnated.

Joe Cowley of the Chicago Sun-Times reported that while a trade to the Denver Nuggets has been discussed, talks have stalled. The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly no longer in the picture after trading D’Angelo Russell to the Brooklyn Nets as part of the Dorian Finney-Smith deal.

Per Cowley, other teams may be hesitant to pursue LaVine until there is clarity regarding the Miami Heat’s Jimmy Butler and the New Orleans Pelicans’ uncertain season trajectory.

Zach LaVine’s Recent Surge

LaVine is putting up some of the best numbers of his career, averaging 32.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 1.0 steals per game on 68.7% true shooting in January. He’s shooting a career-high 44.4% from deep and thriving in a less ball-dominant role, with 51% of his made shots assisted, per Cleaning the Glass.

This production is even more impressive, considering LaVine underwent season-ending foot surgery last February. However, the Bulls’ 18-20 record and 10th-place standing in the East cast doubt on their ability to contend, fueling trade speculation.

Trade Market Complexities

LaVine is earning $43 million this season, with his contract escalating to $46 million next year and a $49 million player option for 2026-27. The NBA’s new collective bargaining agreement has made it difficult for teams to take on large, long-term salaries, further complicating trade negotiations.

LaVine’s skill set remains highly coveted, but potential suitors may not be eager to commit to his contract under current financial restrictions.

Outlook

If LaVine finishes the season in Chicago, it will likely reflect the challenges of the trade market rather than his value as a player. For now, LaVine continues to deliver elite performances, even as uncertainty looms about his future.