Report reveals the Chicago Bulls are now more open to trading Zach LaVine

Could it be only a matter of time before Zach LaVine gets shipped somewhere else?

© David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

Could the firesale Chicago Bulls’ be finally starting? After starting the season 4-7, a report from The Athletic has indicated that numerous NBA teams are taking a close look at Zach LaVine after sources detailed that the Bulls’ front office is more open to trading the high-scoring and highly-paid guard.

Lakers, Heat, and 76ers are monitoring the situation

According to NBA insiders Shams Charania and Darnell Mayberry, lots of NBA general managers are in the Windy City to attend the Champions Classic, which opens the college basketball season. 

This may be where discussions about a potential trade for LaVine could take place. Furthermore, the Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat, and the Philadelphia 76ers are said to be among those monitoring the situation.

The Miami Heat, Los Angeles Lakers, and Philadelphia 76ers are expected to consider a trade for Zach LaVine, per @ShamsCharania

(Via @TheRally / h/t @ChiSportUpdates ) pic.twitter.com/1gpihK6ct1

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) November 14, 2023

The 28-year-old LaVine is one of the league’s most potent scorers. Although his numbers are down from last season, he’s still posting solid averages of 21.9 points, 3.0 assists, and 4.8 rebounds this season.

Losing situation

LaVine is the longest-tenured player on this roster. He’s been with the Bulls since 2017 and has averaged 24.5 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game in his seven seasons in Chicago. 

However, his numbers have not led to many wins for the Bulls. In fact, the team holds a 192-284 record since Zach arrived in 2017. Making the Bulls’ situation more tenuous is LaVine’s pricey contract—a five-year, $215-million pact he signed before the 2022-2023 season, which makes trading him tricky.

Scouts are eyeing potential trade targets in Chicago