Top 5 trade targets for 2x All-Star Zach LaVine amid Chicago Bulls 2024 offseason
Zach LaVine suffered a right foot injury in January that turned out to be season-ending. When the pain and discomfort did not subside, the Chicago Bulls shooting guard eventually decided to undergo surgery the following month. He is reportedly “ahead of schedule” in his rehab.
“Flight 8” is likely ready for training camp in September but it remains to be seen if he will still be reporting to Chicago. Since last season, the Bulls have been rumored to be looking for a trade partner to move the high-flying but oft-injured guard. A few teams reportedly explored talks before this year’s trade deadline but another injury all but ended such conversations.
Without Zach LaVine, the Bulls have remained in contention for at least a play-in tournament spot. Behind the emergence of Coby White, LaVine’s former backup, DeMar DeRozan and Nikola Vucevic, Chicago is ninth in the East.
Chicago could be looking to offload him, with DeRozan and Vucevic to rebuild around White. A few more teams could come calling in the off-season when LaVine is ready to resume basketball activities.
5 teams who could be interested in trading for Zach LaVine
#5 Detroit Pistons
The Detroit Pistons were rumored to be interested in Zach LaVine but were reportedly put off by the Chicago Bulls’ high expectations of a return. Detroit was willing to give up one first-round pick but Chicago wanted more. The two teams may revisit their talks in the off-season.
The Bulls could accept the Pistons’ offer of Isaiah Stewart, Simon Fontecchio, Evan Fournier, Troy Brown Jr. and a future first-round pick. Stewart and Fontecchio can immediately come in to help Chicago’s frontline and wings. Evan Fournier has a $19 million team option next season, which the Bulls could decline to create more room. Brown is only partially guaranteed for $4 million giving Chicago even more cap flexibility.
For a team that sorely lacks a scoring punch, Zach LaVine will be a big boost. He will not instantly make the Pistons instant playoff contenders but he will be a big help around Cade Cunningham.
#4 Charlotte Hornets
Seth Curry and Bryce McGowens are the Charlotte Hornets’ shooting guards. They could use an upgrade by trading for Zach LaVine. The Hornets could offer Seth Curry, Davis Bertans, Cody Martin and a future first-round pick. A lineup featuring LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller and Zach LaVine will raise the excitement level of Hornets fans.
The Chicago Bulls could use Seth Curry and Cody Martin as they are on team-friendly deals. They could also waive Davis Bertans and his $17 million salary for more cap room. Charlotte’s first-round pick will help them in their rebuild.