Perpetual Bulls trade candidate again hitting rumor mill

Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

Perpetual Bulls trade candidate once more hitting the rumor mill

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 5/23/24

Zach LaVine could be back on the trade market this summer. The two-time All-Star was rumored to be available ahead of the Feb. 8 trade deadline. However, the Bulls struggled to find a willing trade partner for LaVine – who had been ruled out for the remainder of the season with a foot injury – and he remained with the franchise for the remainder of the season.

With the offseason fast approaching, LaVine could once again become available as the Chicago Bulls look to improve their rotation. According to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports, the Philadelphia 76ers could emerge as a potential suitor for the 29-year-old if they fail to land any of their primary wing targets.

“Striking out on a big-time wing," Fischer reported, "would also leave the door open for Philadelphia to consider taking back a player such as Zach LaVine, sources said, in the event Chicago or another team is willing to attach draft capital to move off salary."

The conference finals feature four teams loaded with All-Stars, and the Sixers, to no surprise, are chasing a premier two-way wing this summer, league sources told @YahooSports. Details on Paul George, OG Anunoby, the Clippers and more context here: https://t.co/xy9pNZJD3l
— Jake Fischer (@JakeLFischer) May 23, 2024

LaVine still has three years (the third of which is a $48.9 million player option for the 2026-27 season) remaining on his current $215 million deal. He will earn $43 million for the 2024-25 season and $45.9 million for the 2025-26 season. That overpriced contract is a significant reason the Bulls would look to trade their star guard and why they have been unable to find any willing trade partners. LaVine is being paid like a top-10 player, but his production is considerably off that pace.

The 76ers would likely be cautious about exploring a deal for LaVine. His arrival could put the team over the luxury tax and potentially into the second apron. He also doesn't project as the second star Daryl Morey is looking for and may have too much crossover with guard Tyrese Maxey, who has shone since stepping into a bigger role at the start of the season.

While it's unlikely that Philadelphia will turn to LaVine in their hunt for another star player, the latest rumor indicates what's to come regarding the former All-Star's market. The Bulls will likely test the waters. Teams will likely still be put off by his current deal. And a potential saga could develop.

Whether Chicago can find a willing suitor remains to be seen, but it would appear that LaVine's tenure with the Bulls remains precarious.

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