A week after two-time All-Star guard Zach LaVine shared a recovery update from his foot surgery on Instagram, a new report has shed light on his future with the Chicago Bulls. Speculation about the Bulls’ intentions for LaVine began two trade deadlines ago and has persisted.
This morning, K.C. Johnson from NBC Chicago reported that Arturas Karnisovas and his team have proposed 15 trades involving the 29-year-old guard. The question remains: Can Chicago finally trade their overpaid star, and what could they receive in return?
Multiple Trade Offers Across the League
Johnson’s report indicates that Chicago has made 15 trade offers for LaVine, targeting more than half of the teams in the league. Despite likely making multiple offers to some teams, this number suggests that the Bulls have been eager to move LaVine for some time. Their closest attempt came just before LaVine’s right foot surgery, shortly before this season’s trade deadline, when a deal with the Detroit Pistons nearly happened before LaVine opted for season-ending surgery, halting the trade talks.
Impact on Chicago’s Roster
Losing LaVine might not significantly affect Chicago’s roster but could instead allow Coby White to emerge as a full-time threat. The Bulls struggled with LaVine on the court during the 2023-24 season, recording a 10-15 record in his 25 games. Without him, they went 29-28, with White and Ayo Dosunmu showing significant growth. Some argue that the Bulls have been more cohesive without their highest-paid player over the past few seasons.
Potential Return for LaVine
With a LaVine trade likely this summer, what can the Bulls expect in return? His value is subjective; just a few seasons ago, he was a back-to-back All-Star, averaging nearly 25 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists over three seasons. However, since becoming a top-15 paid player in 2022, questions about his versatility and overall abilities have arisen. He has struggled in crucial moments, is known for his poor defense, and his playmaking and effort have been criticized. The key question is whether any teams believe they can restore LaVine to his pre-contract extension form and what they are willing to offer.
If the Bulls are willing to absorb some of LaVine’s hefty contract, more teams might be interested. As the only top-15 paid player without an All-NBA nod or more than one playoff victory, criticism falls on Karnisovas’s front office for awarding such a contract to an unproven player.
Draft Prospects and Trade Scenarios
Houston, Detroit, and San Antonio each have top-ten picks in the upcoming draft, and reports suggest Chicago is looking to move up. Detroit nearly acquired LaVine recently, and the Spurs have expressed interest in adding a veteran wing player. Can Karnisovas redeem himself with the fanbase by securing a top-five draft pick and offloading what is considered the worst contract in recent Bulls history?
Leave a Reply