Blockbuster Bulls-Magic trade proposal sends Zach LaVine to Orlando

LaVine played in just 25 games this season. He underwent season-ending right foot surgery in February. The two-time All-Star averaged 19.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 0.8 steals and 0.3 blocks while shooting 45.2% from the field, 34.9% from three and 85.4% from the free-throw line.

LaVine signed a five-year, $215 million contract with the Bulls in July 2022. He’ll make $43 million next season and $45 million in 2025-26.

According to NBA insider K.C. Johnson of NBC Sports Chicago, the Bulls will look to trade LaVine again this summer. Chicago tried to trade LaVine this season, but no teams were seriously interested in acquiring the UCLA product.

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.

“Orlando’s third-ranked defense fueled its ascension this season, but its growth potential will be capped until its 22nd-ranked offense gets upgraded,” Buckley wrote. “A healthy LaVine would provide that lift, as he can create for himself or his teammates, shred nets from distance or attack off the bounce. He’d pull heat away from Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner and ideally help bring out their best.

“If the Magic, who have the league’s fourth-youngest roster, don’t want to empty their asset collection just yet, this could be their chance to add a potential difference-maker at a discount. Even LaVine’s overpriced pact wouldn’t do too much damage with Banchero, Wagner and Jalen Suggs still having time left on their rookie deals.”

LaVine will be ready to go once the 2024-25 season starts. It will be fascinating to see if he’s on the Bulls or another team.