Zach LaVine, Nikola Vucevic rumored to be back on trade market as Bulls look to shop star duo: Report
The Chicago Bulls are reportedly putting their superstar pair Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic in the trade market again. Rumor mills churned that the Windy City franchise is set to gauge the value for their two remaining big names with the NBA 2024-25 season well underway. Per ESPN's Jamal Collier, Chicago is expected to put LaVine and Vucevic on the trade block at some point this season after enduring a difficult 2023-24 run.
Both players have been trade block staples since the 2022-23 season, but have not found any takers across the league. NBA insider Marc Stein had earlier reported that there would be a deal that would roll out for Vucevic at some point for two reasons — a manageable contract and the lack of big men availability this season.
LaVine's situation isn't easy considering that the guard has battled injuries and missed extensive game time. To add, his five-year, $215 million contract with the Bulls. He still has two guaranteed years remaining on his deal including this season with salaries of $43 million and $46 million, along with a $48.97 million player option for the 2026-27 edition.
However, their recent run of form may see them find a new home by the end of the season. Both players have been linked to multiple franchises, most notably the LA Lakers — a side that was reported to have interest in the duo. Vucevic has begun his season well averaging 20.8 points per game. LaVine is propping up 22.7 points per game on 45.8% shooting and has shown what he's capable of when healthy. He did miss two games with a right adductor strain.
The rebuilding Bulls have leaned toward a younger core of Josh Giddey, Coby White, Ayo Dosunmu, and Matas Buzelis. If they find the right pieces that help them fill Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic's position, the new-look Bulls will then move to a full-fledged revamp.
Bulls insider believes the LA Clippers are a team to watch out for in potential Zach LaVine trade
Earlier, Bulls insider Joe Cowley reported that the LA Clippers, and not the Lakers are one of the teams to watch out for as Chicago looks to deal Zach LaVine. He believed the lack of suitors wouldn't necessarily batten down the 2x NBA All-Star while naming the Clippers as one of the parties that would trade for the wing.
"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."
Cowley's report came amid LA losing Russell Westbrook and Paul George earlier this summer, but the side has stood pat by not pushing for massive names so far. With two LA teams potentially looking at adding more firepower, it remains to be seen whether either of them will make a move for LaVine.