Chicago Bulls Open to Trading Zach LaVine in Search of Roster Shakeup
ICARO Media Group
In the aftermath of their elimination in the Play-In tournament and subsequent failure to make the playoffs, the Chicago Bulls are reportedly looking to shake up their roster this offseason. One player who has become the subject of numerous trade proposals is their star guard, Zach LaVine.
According to a report from Bulls insider K.C. Johnson of NBC Sports Chicago, Bulls executive vice president of basketball operations Arturas Karnisovas has floated around "as many as 15 proposals" involving LaVine as part of the package. These proposals have primarily been sent to the Sacramento Kings, Orlando Magic, and Philadelphia 76ers.
The main motivation behind potentially moving LaVine is the desire to free up salary cap space. LaVine is set to earn over $43 million next season, and unloading his contract would allow the Bulls to re-sign key players like DeMar DeRozan and Patrick Williams. Additionally, it would enable them to add a valuable first-round pick without exceeding the luxury tax threshold, which the team would prefer to avoid after falling short of expectations last season.
LaVine is currently under contract for the next two seasons, with salaries of $43 million and almost $46 million respectively. He also holds a player option for the 2026-27 season, which would earn him close to $49 million if exercised.
While the Bulls are keen on retaining DeRozan and Williams, it appears that parting ways with LaVine might be necessary to make it happen. However, the final outcome will depend on whether another team is willing to meet Chicago's asking price for the talented guard.
As the NBA draft approaches next week, the Bulls seem ready to explore all possibilities to reshape their team and bounce back from their recent disappointment. The future of Zach LaVine hangs in the balance, and the rumored trade proposals are sure to generate significant buzz within the NBA community.
It remains to be seen how the situation will unfold, but one thing is certain: the Chicago Bulls are determined to pursue a new direction and are willing to make significant changes to accomplish their goals.