The Chicago Bulls’ desire to trade All-Star guard Zach LaVine this season was probably the NBA’s worst-kept secret. However, the team’s front office had talks with the Detroit Pistons, and they ultimately couldn’t find a suitable trade partner. LaVine’s foot injury and subsequent surgery then made it impossible to make anything happen this season.
With LaVine reportedly ahead of schedule regarding his recovery and rehabilitation, a report insists the Bulls must forge ahead and find a way to unload LaVine, even if it means receiving pennies on the dollar.
Get some draft picks for LaVine
Chicago had difficulty trading LaVine this season for several reasons, the biggest of which is his enormous salary. In addition to his recent injury history, finding a willing trade partner has become even more challenging. However, with the emergence of Coby White and Ayo Dosunmu in LaVine’s absence, it may be time for the Bulls to cut their losses and move on from the high-priced guard.
Greg Swartz wrote, “Chicago isn't going to get a massive haul, especially with LaVine playing just 25 games this season and with three years and $138 million remaining on his contract.”
“The best the Bulls can hope for is a pair of first-round picks from some contender and some salary relief as well.”
Bulls have thrived without LaVine
LaVine is a talented wingman who can easily score 30 points. His silky-looking jumper and nuclear athleticism allow him to regularly detonate thunderous dunks at the rim, making him a sight to behold when healthy.
But that’s been the issue for LaVine and the Bulls. This season, the former UCLA star played only 25 games. When he sat out at the end of November, Chicago had a miserable 5-14 record. However, when he finally returned at the start of 2024, the Bulls had made lots of ground. They went 15-5 in December, thanks to Coby White’s nightly scoring escapades.
That's not to say LaVine isn't an important player for the Bulls. On the contrary, he has shown flashes of being a true star in this league. However, with his iso-heavy style of play and lack of consistent availability, the team has proven that they can thrive without him.
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