There is a lot of talk going on about Zach LaVine potentially being traded this season as the Chicago Bulls continue to struggle. The Bulls haven’t been able to make ends meet with their All-Star trio. Having three All-Stars is more than enough to achieve a deep playoff run, which Chicago hasn’t done since the formation of the roster. Right now, rumors claim that they aim to rebuild without one of the league’s best isolation players.
#Bulls Zach LaVine has the WORST career winning percentage in the NBA among active players. Vucevic is 4th worst on the list.
LaVine has won just 36.8% of his games and Vucevic won just 40.1%
(minimum 500 games played) pic.twitter.com/v76ZgKdYiE
— Die-Hard Chicago Bulls Fans (@DieHardCBfans) November 29, 2023
This season, the Bulls have probably experienced their worst start yet. They currently rank 13th in the Eastern Conference with a record of 5 wins and 14 losses. Chicago is nowhere near the form they should be in. Unfortunately, Bulls players have also grown frustrated that there is barely any chemistry between themselves. Veteran center, Nikola Vucevic has been the most vocal about his desire to win more games and make it to the playoffs.
The Bulls are eyeing Rui Hachimura and Austin Reaves for Zach LaVine
Ever since the start of the season, Zach LaVine has been involved in a couple of trade rumors. But right now, the Bulls showing more interest in reconstructing their lineup. So far, the Los Angeles Lakers have been the biggest prospects to trade from the 2x All-Star. The Lakers have playoff potential, but they need a consistent player to help them solidify a post-season appearance. Zach happens to be just that person and someone who can have an immediate effect on the team’s performance as well.
The Chicago Bulls would want Rui Hachimura and Austin Reaves in a potential deal for Zach LaVine, per @AmicoHoops pic.twitter.com/VcRegsuaV7
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) November 30, 2023
LaVine has been averaging 21 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game on 44.3% shooting. This isn’t his best statline but can still be effective on the Lakers roster. When he’s in full form, Zach has proven that he’s capable of averaging between 24 to 27 points per game. According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, the Lakers are contemplating sending Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura to the Bulls for a third star in LaVine.
Will the Lakers covet Austin Reaves for Zach LaVine?
The possibilities are endless with the Lakers, especially since they have a roster filled with assets that can be used. However, the catch here is that Reaves is an emerging player with a massive amount of potential. Teams dealing with the Lakers in trade scenarios are automatically going to question Reaves’ availability. But at the same time, the Lakers are benefitting a lot from him. Reaves was coveted while the Lakers tried to pursue Kyrie Irving.
“I think the Lakers will be patient… I expect them to express interest in Zach LaVine… The Bulls, I’m sure, would covet Austin Reaves in any potential LaVine trade.”@ShamsCharania on whether LA will pursue a 3rd star 🗣
(via @RunItBackFDTV)pic.twitter.com/1bzwUAl5GU
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) November 28, 2023
Trading Reaves and Hachimura would help create a lot of financial impact to accommodate a $40 million paycheck for Zach LaVine. However, Hachimura’s contract prevents him from being traded until mid-January. The same goes with D’Angelo Russell’s contract, which could be used instead of Reaves. While Reaves is the only potential star that can traded for LaVine, the Lakers probably recognize what they’ll be losing as well.