The report cautions the Chicago Bulls against forcing a Zach LaVine trade

The Bulls must tread carefully through the trade talks.

As the Chicago Bulls continue to explore the trade market for All-Star guard Zach LaVine, an expert from Bleacher Report cautions the team’s front office not to make rash decisions. Whether it’s suddenly becoming buyers or receiving pennies on the dollar at the trade deadline, the Bulls have much to consider come the trade deadline on February 8.

Don’t let the improved play fool you

The Chicago Bulls have played better basketball for the last month and a half. However, their better performances shouldn’t dissuade the front office from what must be done. Any talk of buyers or pushing for the playoffs doesn’t make sense, as the Bulls’ ceiling with this core is still relatively low.

“Despite climbing back into the East play-in tournament, the Bulls shouldn't make the mistake of becoming buyers at the trade deadline. This is a core that simply isn't going anywhere together, even with Zach LaVine returning from a foot injury,” Greg Swartz wrote.

We got a race to the rim 👀@NBCSChicago | @DeMar_DeRozan pic.twitter.com/B2UFvX3LDt

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) January 6, 2024

Don’t rush into a trade

One of the NBA’s worst-kept secrets is the Bulls’ desire to trade LaVine, which has proven to be a tricky task, as evidenced by the lack of takers for the high-scoring guard’s services. As such, the Bulls must not bite the bullet and make a rash decision at the trade deadline. Instead, they should take time and carefully evaluate all potential trade offers.

“If Chicago doesn't get a quality pick or young player with All-Star upside, there's no reason to trade the 28-year-old now while his stock is low coming off an injury,” Swartz said.

“If DeRozan is moved and LaVine gets the ball more over the final few months of the season, we could see his scoring numbers pop once again.”

Zach got him with the pump 👀@NBCSChicago | @ZachLaVine pic.twitter.com/WDsSNS6mqh

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) January 11, 2024

According to an insider, Zach LaVine is still on the market, but the Bulls are unwilling to embark on a rebuild