James Harden’s future in Philadelphia remains uncertain. Harden showed up to the 76ers’ training camp even after having expressed a strong desire to be traded during the offseason. It’s still unclear whether he’ll stay in Philadelphia for the duration of his contract but recent rumors suggest a potential trade with the Bulls’ superstar, Zach LaVine.
The Chicago Bulls had high expectations for a strong presence in the Eastern Conference after they paired LaVine with Nikola Vucevic, Lonzo Ball, and DeMar DeRozan in 2021. However, they faced challenges such as Ball’s knee injury and missing out on the playoffs last season. LaVine’s growing frustration and desire for a championship ring might motivate him to explore opportunities with other teams.
How Sixers’ James Harden trade approach may lead to Bulls All-Star Zach LaVinehttps://t.co/IDvAbXGFH1
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) October 13, 2023
According to sources like K.C. Johnson from NBC Sports Chicago, there had been “preliminary conversations” between the Bulls and other teams regarding LaVine, including the 76ers. While no official discussions have taken place, it is evident that Philadelphia has shown interest in acquiring LaVine. With his playing style, offensive control ability, and potential chemistry with Joel Embiid, LaVine becomes a solid target for Philadelphia.
How the Sixers can trade James Harden for Zach LaVine?
Financial troubles play a major role when it comes to NBA trades. The Philadelphia 76ers are already above the tax threshold, which makes it challenging for them to bring LaVine on board. The issue arises from Lavine’s $40 million contract for the 2023 24 season because Harden’s $35.6 million contract doesn’t cover the difference.
To bridge this gap players like Furkan Korkmaz could be of help. Korkmaz is set to earn $5.3 million in the final year of his contract. And has previously expressed interest in a trade. This option seems like a solution for balancing out the team’s finances.
If You Want to Trade for Zach LaVine, You’ll Have to Overpayhttps://t.co/7rmScuMQgv pic.twitter.com/zbIVgnRmyE
— Bleacher Nation Bulls (@BN_Bulls) October 9, 2023
However, the main problem is not about James Harden and Philadelphia’s intentions, but it’s all about Chicago’s willingness to part with their All-Star LaVine, and what they would demand in return. The Bulls’ desire to be the Eastern Conference contenders means that they will not compromise in their competitive stance.
Recent contract renewals for LaVine and Vucevic and the possibility of a long-term extension for DeRozan, as indicated by executive VP of basketball operations Arturas Karnisovas, suggest that the Bulls believe in their core team. Hence, a package from the Clippers that includes draft picks and players like Norman Powell, Terance Mann, and Marcus Morris Sr. for Harden might not intrigue them.