Zach LaVine’s trade value has significantly increased following his impressive performances this season, particularly his standout 36-point game against the Boston Celtics. LaVine’s production has garnered renewed attention from teams across the league, sparking rumors of potential trades. According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, the mood surrounding LaVine has noticeably changed, with multiple teams paying closer attention to his situation in Chicago.
The Chicago Bulls star is currently averaging 22.3 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. He’s shooting a career-best 43.5 percent from beyond the arc and 50.5 percent from the field, leading the Bulls in scoring through 24 starts. These numbers, coupled with his consistent output over the past two weeks—which includes three 30-point performances in a four-game span—have shifted the perception around his value.
LaVine’s contract, however, remains a contentious point in trade discussions. He is earning $43 million this season and has a player option for 2026-27 that would push his total owed to nearly $95 million over the next two seasons.
Just a few months ago, reports suggested that LaVine’s contract made him difficult to move, with some claiming the Bulls might need to attach draft assets to facilitate a trade. Now, his improved performances have sparked interest from teams willing to consider taking on his lucrative deal.
One such team is the Denver Nuggets, who are actively seeking a secondary scorer to complement reigning MVP Nikola Jokic. The Athletic’s Tony Jones and Sam Amick have reported that LaVine has become a focal point in the Nuggets’ discussions for offensive reinforcements.
A potential trade would likely involve Michael Porter Jr., who is younger and less costly than LaVine but has not matched LaVine’s level of production this season. Such a move would provide the Nuggets with an elite scorer behind Jokic while giving the Bulls a younger asset to help retool their roster.
LaVine’s strong performances come at a crucial time for Chicago. After a disappointing start to the season, the Bulls are evaluating their long-term direction. Moving LaVine could signal a shift toward rebuilding, allowing the team to gain flexibility and assets. For LaVine, a trade to a playoff contender like Denver could offer an opportunity to elevate his career and compete for a championship.
Despite the speculation, no deals are imminent, and the Bulls will likely weigh their options carefully. Teams like Denver will need to consider the financial implications of acquiring LaVine while ensuring he fits seamlessly into their system. Nevertheless, LaVine’s recent resurgence has turned what once seemed like an unmovable contract into a valuable trade piece. As interest in the 28-year-old guard grows, the Bulls may find themselves in a stronger bargaining position than anticipated.
Ultimately, LaVine’s elevated trade value reflects his ability to rise to the occasion and perform at an elite level. Whether he remains in Chicago or finds a new home, his recent stretch of strong play has solidified his status as a desirable asset in the NBA.
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