The Los Angeles Lakers have been solid but unspectacular so far this season. They are at the spot where many felt they would be, having a 6-6 record and not proving to be elite in any category. Los Angeles ranks 17th in offense (112.8 points per game) and 22nd in defense (115.9 points per game), meaning they are constantly getting scored on but do not have the elite shooting required to succeed in the modern NBA.
The Lakers are shooting 34.3% from three as a team, which is the eighth lowest in the NBA right now. The issue is that they aren’t scoring from mid-range or at the rim well either because other than LeBron James (24.6 PPG) and Anthony Davis (22.1 PPG), no player can consistently deliver at least 20 points per game. Without proper scoring and an inconsistent defense, which we have come to expect since the 2021 season, the Lakers need to find a third All-Star player to change their fortunes around and push for another Western Conference Finals appearance.
Meanwhile, the Chicago Bulls are on the other end of the spectrum in terms of not being a title contender but also having two All-Star players who simply don’t belong on the roster anymore. The Bulls have a poor 4-8 record and rank 20th in defensive rating while also having a net rating of -3.8 which ranks 22nd in the league. They can’t defend and also can’t score enough to make up for their deficiencies. Zach LaVine is the star of the team but is currently involved in trade rumors and looks to be unsettled right now, while DeMar DeRozan is the veteran All-Star of the team who is not having an impact.
With the Bulls possibly looking to blow up their roster as soon as possible, there could be three deals on the table right now as the Lakers can jump in and create blockbuster trade packages for at least one of the All-Star players. Since the Lakers want to win right away while the Bulls want to win, here are the three blockbuster trade scenarios between the two teams that can happen right now.
A Hefty Deal For All-Star Shooting Guard Zach LaVine
The first deal involves the Lakers offering a massive package to the Bulls in order to bring All-Star Zach LaVine to the team. The Bulls want to rebuild and will ask for a mix of young players and picks, so if the Lakers get desperate, they can offer a massive trade package for the 28-year-old LaVine.
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Zach LaVine, Alex Caruso
Chicago Bulls Receive: Austin Reaves, D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL), 2025 Second-Round Pick (LAL), 2027 Second-Round Pick (LAL)
This proposed trade involving the Lakers and Bulls centers around the acquisition of All-Star shooting guard Zach LaVine by the Lakers, signifying a significant move to bolster their backcourt firepower. On the surface, the deal appears to heavily favor the Lakers, who are willing to part with a mix of young talent and future draft assets to secure LaVine’s services.
From the Bulls’ perspective, the package they receive in return addresses various needs. Austin Reaves, a promising young player, adds depth to their roster. D’Angelo Russell, a skilled guard, could potentially become a key contributor, especially if he can rediscover the form he showed before leaving the Lakers. Rui Hachimura, a forward with solid potential, provides versatility and youth to aid the Bulls’ rebuilding efforts. The inclusion of three draft picks, including a 2029 first-round pick, enhances Chicago’s ability to invest in and develop young talent for the future.
For the Lakers, acquiring Zach LaVine would undoubtedly elevate their offensive capabilities. LaVine’s scoring prowess (career 38.2% 3-PT FG), athleticism, and ability to create his own shot make him a valuable addition alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The inclusion of Alex Caruso in the deal may raise eyebrows among Lakers fans, as Caruso has become a fan favorite for his defensive tenacity and role-playing skills and played a pivotal role in the 2020 championship season.
However, the Lakers are making a win-now move by securing a proven All-Star in LaVine. The deal implies a willingness to sacrifice some depth and future assets for immediate championship contention. The success of this trade ultimately hinges on the Lakers’ ability to capitalize on their current window of competitiveness with the newly formed trio of LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Zach LaVine. If they secure a championship, the trade could be deemed successful, but if not, it may be scrutinized for its long-term implications on the Lakers’ roster and future drafts.
A Chance To Contend While Giving DeMar DeRozan A Chance To Win
Another scenario involves the Lakers focusing on 34-year-old DeMar DeRozan who might only have a few years left of his prime before decline starts setting in if it hasn’t already. DeRozan is averaging 21.2 points per game on 43.4% from the field so he isn’t playing at his best right now but has enough in the tank to be a third option. The deal involves some tongue players and a valuable first-round pick in exchange for the 2023 All-Star.
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: DeMar DeRozan
Chicago Bulls Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Taurean Prince, Jalen Hood-Schifino, Cam Reddish, 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL)
In this trade scenario, the Lakers aim to contend in the present by acquiring DeMar DeRozan, an experienced All-Star, to complement their existing star duo of LeBron James and Anthony Davis. DeRozan, despite being 34 years old, continues to be a reliable scorer, averaging over 21 points per game, showcasing his ability to contribute as a third option.
For the Lakers, the move is a win-now strategy, acknowledging the urgency of maximizing their championship window with LeBron James. DeRozan’s scoring ability, mid-range game, and playoff experience could provide the Lakers with an additional offensive weapon, particularly in crucial moments.
On the other hand, the Bulls receive a package centered around D’Angelo Russell, a talented guard who could potentially thrive in a more significant role. Taurean Prince adds depth on the wing, while Jalen Hood-Schifino and Cam Reddish, both young prospects, offer long-term potential. The 2029 first-round pick sweetens the deal for the Bulls, providing them with a valuable asset for future roster development.
While the Lakers prioritize immediate contention, the Bulls opt for a more future-oriented approach, acquiring young talent and draft assets to align with their rebuilding strategy. The success of this trade would depend on how well DeRozan integrates into the Lakers’ system and contributes to their championship aspirations, as well as the development and impact of the players and pick acquired by the Bulls in the long run. If the Lakers make this trade and DeRozan can’t mesh with James and Davis, it could end up being a bad deal, but the team cannot afford to not take gambles right now.
The Best Deal For The Lakers Right Now
The final deal is the best one that could be on the table for the Lakers right now as they acquire Zach LaVine without giving up too much of their roster and keeping key contributors such as Rui Hachimura and some first-round picks to keep their future flexibility. The Bulls end up with the two most valuable prospects from the Lakers but might take this deal if there isn’t a better one elsewhere.
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Zach LaVine
Chicago Bulls Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, Gabe Vincent
In this trade scenario, the Lakers pursue a win-now approach by acquiring All-Star shooting guard Zach LaVine while strategically maintaining their roster’s core contributors and future flexibility. Zach LaVine’s scoring ability and offensive prowess could significantly enhance the Lakers’ offensive firepower alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
For the Lakers, the deal only involves parting with D’Angelo Russell, who, while talented, is not a key contributor to the current Lakers’ core. Austin Reaves and Gabe Vincent, though valuable, are considered movable assets to secure a player of LaVine’s caliber. This allows the Lakers to strengthen their immediate championship contention without sacrificing too much depth.
On the other side, the Bulls receive D’Angelo Russell, a skilled guard who could potentially flourish in an expanded role. Austin Reaves and Gabe Vincent add young talent and depth to Chicago’s roster. While the Bulls would lose Zach LaVine’s scoring, this trade provides them with assets to aid in their rebuilding efforts.
This deal seems beneficial for both sides, addressing immediate needs for the Lakers while giving the Bulls valuable assets for the future. The success of this trade would hinge on how well Zach LaVine integrates into the Lakers’ system and contributes to their championship aspirations, as well as the development and impact of the players acquired by the Bulls in the long run. Overall, it appears to strike a balance between contending now and preserving future flexibility for the Lakers.
Which Trade Is The Best, Most Realistic, And Biggest Gamble?
The final blockbuster deal for Zach LaVine is the best for the Lakers as it minimizes the assets given up while creating a formidable Big Three. This aligns with a win-now mentality, prioritizing immediate championship contention without sacrificing too much of their existing core.
However, the first trade, involving a massive package for Zach LaVine, is deemed the most realistic. This assessment is grounded in the likelihood that the Bulls, in a rebuilding phase, would be inclined to demand a substantial return, particularly from young players and future draft assets, to part with an All-Star talent like LaVine.
Finally, the move for DeMar DeRozan as the biggest gamble due to his age and shooting limitations, which could pose uncertainties in fitting with LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Additionally, the Bulls might pass on acquiring Reaves and Hachimura, potentially affecting the long-term outlook of their rebuilding efforts and they might lose the chance to acquire them if they do trade DeRozan and not LaVine to Los Angeles.
It will be interesting to see how the Lakers operate in this trade market because their roster has a host of formalities holding them back right now including trade restrictions that will affect key targets D’Angelo Russell (December 15th), Rui Hachimura (January 15th), and Austin Reaves (January 15th). If Rob Pelinka can be at his best, he might be able to bring LaVine or DeRozan on board, but it also depends on whether the Bulls want to help the Lakers go for another NBA championship.
