The Chicago Bulls remain stuck in NBA limbo, but a blockbuster trade with the Los Angeles Lakers might be their way out.
While Chicago has made some moves towards a fresh start, they are still weighed down by Zach LaVine’s hefty contract, which has been difficult to offload.
However, with reports this summer indicating LaVine is in full health, the Bulls should persist in trying to trade the two-time All-Star. LaVine doesn’t fit with Chicago’s rebuilding plans, but he’s a highly talented player in his prime who could significantly benefit a contender.
That’s where the Los Angeles Lakers come in, as they could use another star to ease the burden on an aging LeBron James and the injury-prone Anthony Davis. If the Lakers can acquire LaVine without sacrificing Austin Reaves, it would be seen as a win.
Fortunately for the Lakers, such a trade is feasible. Sending D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, and Gabe Vincent to Chicago in exchange for LaVine would align financially for both teams.
For the Bulls, this deal would break LaVine’s large contract into three smaller, more manageable ones, with the longest lasting only two more seasons (while LaVine has three years left). Though Russell doesn’t quite fit Chicago’s guard-heavy roster, his expiring contract is valuable. Hachimura and Vincent would also add veteran leadership to aid the development of Chicago’s younger players.
From the Lakers’ perspective, a core lineup of James, Davis, Reaves, and LaVine could be formidable, provided they all stay healthy.
A LaVine-to-Lakers trade remains viable, and a deal like this could benefit both teams in achieving their respective goals.
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