LA Clippers, not Lakers, are a team to monitor despite lack of suitors for Zach LaVine: Reports
Zach LaVine's trade news has taken a backseat, with the Chicago Bulls struggling to find takers across both conferences. However, Bulls insider Joe Cowley believes the LA Clippers are a potential team to monitor, tweeting that there's still a market for the two-time NBA All-Star, according to league sources.
Cowley reported that the Clippers are one of the teams reportedly interested in his services. That comes after the team traded away a key piece in Paul George and rumors that the front office would part ways with veteran guard Russell Westbrook.
"NBA people still feel like if there's a place Zach LaVine could end up going to - either before the season or at the deadline - don't rule out the Clippers."
The Lakers were one of the teams named as possible suitors for LaVine — one that has lasted for a good couple of seasons.
He was linked with his hometown team after LeBron James reportedly greenlit the team's idea of pursuing the SG. So far, it has been a dull offseason for the Purple and Gold, as they have stood pat in free agency after missing out on the likes of Klay Thompson and DeMar DeRozan.
Now, the Clippers who have been looking at building a competitive roster around Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, are looked at as a likely destination for Zach LaVine.
Zach LaVine's hefty contract and injury history have been key factors behind lack of interest
A troubling knee injury forced Zach LaVine to be shut down after just 25 games last season. In his limited time on the floor, the 29-year-old averaged 19.5 points, 5.2 rebounds and 2.9 assists. In his 580-game career, he has propped up 20.5 points, 4.1 rebounds and 3.9 assists per contest, shooting 46.4% from the field and 38.2% from downtown.
His contract is still one of the major reasons behind teams not willing to take on the guard. Should he pick up his player option for the 2026-27 season, LaVine will still be owed nearly $140 million over the next three years, which has had teams giving him a hard pass.
With the Clippers, LaVine could fill the void George leaves, although his defense is a lot more questionable. George averaged 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds and 3.5 assists in 74 games last season, numbers LaVine could tally if he stays healthy. But with health and an expensive contract going against him, it remains to be seen if he becomes a Clipper.