The Chicago Bulls are reportedly exploring the possibility of trading their longtime star, Zach LaVine. They are open to entertaining and considering trade offers from various teams around the league, including those contending for championships.
The 28-year-old is currently in his seventh season with the Bulls, where he has played and started eleven games this season.
The two-time NBA All-Star is currently averaging 21.9 points, 4.8 rebounds and 3.0 assists while shooting 40.9 percent from the field and 30.9 percent from three point distance in 35.1 minutes per contest.
League insider Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium reported that the Los Angeles Lakers are one of the teams interested in the dynamic guard. LaVine has history in Los Angeles, having played college basketball at UCLA.
The Lakers would also have a third bonafide star alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. With the NBA's all-time leading scorer James on his 21st season, it isn't far-fatched to say that he is already thinking about hanging up his sneakers.
LaVine is also locked in a long-term contract, giving the Lakers a surefire star to showcase at the Crypto.com Arena for the foreseeable future should they opt to trade for him.
However, it might not make sense for the purple and gold squad to acquire the 6-foot-5 player.
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3 reasons the Lakers should not pursue Zach LaVine:
1. LaVine's lackluster defense
LaVine is not widely recognized for his defensive prowess, and there are concerns that a potential trade involving him might draw parallels to the ill-fated acquisition of Russell Westbrook in 2021.
In that scenario, the Lakers acquired a hyper-athletic star on the decline in terms of injury history who exhibited streaky shooting performances at times.
2. Financial implications LaVine's massive max contract
LaVine is on the second year of a $215 million max contract, where he is set to earn more than $40 million per season until 2025-26 at the earliest, with a $48,967,380 player option for 2026-27.
The two-time NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion will make $40,064,220 in 2023-24. The Lakers already have their two main stars, LeBron James and Anthony Davis making more than $40 million annually.
The tradeoff of acquiring a third star might not be worth it from a financial perspective.
3. The Lakers will have to potentially give up valuable players
Other teams around the league who are in dire need of a star might put together their most enticing offers to Bulls, which means that the Lakers will have to put their best foot forward.
A potential deal for the purple and gold might include vital role players such as Rui Hachimura, D'Angelo Russell, Taurean Prince or even Austin Reaves.
This trade could compromise the Lakers' depth and defensive capabilities, potentially creating challenges for the team's overall performance despite the welcome addition of LaVine's firepower.
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