Zach LaVine’s 2023-24 season has been a rollercoaster, marred by injuries and inconsistent play. The two-time All-Star averaged 19.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game before undergoing season-ending foot surgery. This abrupt end to his season has put the Bulls in a tricky spot as they enter the offseason. With LaVine sidelined and Chicago missing the playoffs, the Bulls are poised to explore trade options to maximize their assets and potentially kickstart a rebuild or make a significant push to strengthen their roster for the future.
LaVine’s injury woes and the Bulls’ lackluster performance have fueled speculations about his future with the team. Despite a down year, his scoring ability and athleticism make him a valuable trade piece. The Bulls are now faced with the decision of whether to build around their star guard or leverage his trade value to bring in new talent. As the offseason approaches, let’s dive into the top five potential trades the Bulls could consider for Zach LaVine.
A Los Angeles Lakers Blockbuster Trade
Chicago Bulls receive: D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, 2029 first-round pick
Los Angeles Lakers receive: Zach LaVine
In this potential blockbuster trade, the Chicago Bulls would receive D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and a 2029 first-round pick from the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Zach LaVine. This deal would involve a sign-and-trade for Russell, who is expected to decline his $18.6 million player option to seek a new contract.
D’Angelo Russell had a strong 2023-24 season, averaging 18.0 points, 6.3 assists, and 3.1 rebounds per game. He also shot an impressive 41.5% from three-point range, the best mark of his career. Austin Reaves contributed significantly as well, averaging 15.9 points, 5.5 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game.
The context for the Lakers post-playoffs is crucial in understanding this trade. After being eliminated in the first round by the Denver Nuggets, the Lakers are looking to address their depth and offensive versatility. Adding a dynamic scorer like Zach LaVine, despite his injury-plagued season, could provide the offensive boost the Lakers need to complement their core of LeBron James and Anthony Davis. LaVine’s scoring prowess and athleticism make him a valuable asset for a team aiming to make a deeper playoff run next season.
From the Bulls’ perspective, this trade offers several benefits. Firstly, acquiring D’Angelo Russell gives the Bulls a skilled playmaker who can both score and facilitate, helping to fill the void left by LaVine. Russell’s ability to shoot from long range adds a new dimension to the Bulls’ offense. Additionally, Austin Reaves is a promising young player who can contribute immediately with his all-around game and defensive tenacity. The inclusion of a future first-round pick provides the Bulls with a valuable asset for their rebuilding efforts or for future trades.
This trade could help the Bulls retool their roster with a mix of established talent and future potential, positioning them better for both short-term competitiveness and long-term growth.
The Miami Heat Get A Third Star Player
Chicago Bulls receive: Tyler Herro, Caleb Martin, 2029 first-round pick
Miami Heat receive: Zach LaVine
In this exciting trade scenario, the Chicago Bulls would acquire Tyler Herro, Caleb Martin, and a 2029 first-round pick from the Miami Heat in exchange for Zach LaVine. This trade is designed to meet the strategic needs of both teams as they aim to enhance their rosters.
Tyler Herro had a strong 2023-24 season, averaging 20.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game. He continued to be a reliable scorer and playmaker, showcasing his ability to create his own shot and facilitate for others. Caleb Martin added valuable depth for the Heat, contributing 10.0 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game, while also being a versatile defender and three-point shooter.
For the Miami Heat, acquiring Zach LaVine would provide a significant offensive boost. LaVine’s scoring ability and athleticism would complement Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo, giving the Heat a potent trio capable of competing with the top teams in the Eastern Conference. LaVine’s ability to score from all three levels and his knack for hitting clutch shots make him an ideal fit for a team looking to make a deep playoff run. Despite his injury issues this past season, LaVine remains one of the league’s premier scorers when healthy, averaging 19.5 points per game in 2023-24.
From the Bulls’ angle, this trade brings multiple benefits. Tyler Herro, a young and dynamic guard, can step into a primary scoring role for Chicago, providing them with a talented player to build around. Herro’s versatility as a scorer and playmaker would be a valuable asset for the Bulls’ offense. Caleb Martin would add depth and defensive prowess, making the Bulls more competitive on both ends of the floor. Additionally, the future first-round pick provides Chicago with a valuable asset for future rebuilding or trade opportunities.
Much Needed Help For The Pistons
Chicago Bulls receive: Evan Fournier, Ausar Thompson, Troy Brown Jr., 2026 first-round pick
Detroit Pistons receive: Zach LaVine
In this potential trade, the Chicago Bulls would receive Evan Fournier, Ausar Thompson, Troy Brown Jr., and a 2026 first-round pick from the Detroit Pistons in exchange for Zach LaVine. This deal capitalizes on the Pistons’ reported interest in LaVine from the previous regular season and aims to provide both teams with the assets they need for their respective goals.
Ausar Thompson, the standout rookie for the Pistons, has shown promise in his first NBA season. He averaged 8.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game over 63 games. Thompson has also demonstrated his defensive capabilities with averages of 1.1 steals and 0.9 blocks per game. His performance has highlighted his potential to develop into a versatile and impactful player.
For the Pistons, acquiring Zach LaVine would provide a significant boost to their offense. LaVine, despite his injury setbacks, remains one of the league’s premier scorers. His ability to create his own shot and score from all areas of the court would add much-needed firepower to the Pistons’ lineup, helping to accelerate their rebuild and improve their competitiveness in the Eastern Conference. Additionally, the Pistons reportedly showed interest in LaVine during the regular season, indicating a continued desire to add a star player to their roster.
Considering the Bulls’ needs, this deal offers both current benefits and future prospects. Ausar Thompson’s potential and defensive skills are crucial for the team’s development, while Evan Fournier and Troy Brown Jr. provide necessary depth. The inclusion of the 2026 first-round pick gives Chicago valuable leverage for future trades or draft strategies.
Bringing LaVine To The Other LA Team
Chicago Bulls receive: Terance Mann, Norman Powell, PJ Tucker
Los Angeles Clippers receive: Zach LaVine
The Chicago Bulls are looking to shake things up by trading Zach LaVine to the Los Angeles Clippers. In return, the Bulls would receive Terance Mann, Norman Powell, and PJ Tucker. This trade aims to provide both teams with the pieces they need to advance their respective goals.
Terance Mann had a productive 2023-24 season, averaging 8.8 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game over 75 games. Mann’s defensive capabilities and energy on the court make him a valuable addition to the Bulls. Norman Powell, who averaged 13.9 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.1 assists in 76 games, brings scoring depth and experience to Chicago. PJ Tucker, included mainly for salary matching, adds veteran presence and toughness.
For the Clippers, acquiring Zach LaVine means adding a dynamic scorer who can create his own shot and stretch the floor. LaVine’s offensive prowess would fit well alongside Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, potentially transforming the Clippers into a more formidable contender in the Western Conference. Despite his injury setbacks this season, LaVine’s ability to score at will makes him an attractive option for a team looking to make a deep playoff run.
From Chicago’s viewpoint, this trade brings both immediate impact and long-term potential. Terance Mann’s defensive prowess and versatility are invaluable, while Norman Powell provides scoring depth. The inclusion of PJ Tucker adds veteran presence, helping the Bulls balance present competitiveness with future growth.
A New Backcourt Teammate For Ja Morant
Chicago Bulls receive: Marcus Smart, Ziaire Williams, Santi Aldama, 2026 first-round pick
Memphis Grizzlies receive: Zach LaVine
In this major trade scenario, the Chicago Bulls would receive Marcus Smart, Ziaire Williams, Santi Aldama, and a 2026 first-round pick from the Memphis Grizzlies in exchange for Zach LaVine. This deal is crafted to benefit both teams as they aim to reshape their rosters for better performance.
Marcus Smart, despite being limited to 20 games this season due to injury, averaged 14.5 points, 4.3 assists, and 2.7 rebounds per game. His defensive prowess and leadership make him a valuable addition to the Bulls. Ziaire Williams contributed 8.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game over 51 games, showing his potential for growth. Santi Aldama also had a solid season, averaging 10.7 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.3 assists in 61 games, highlighting his versatility.
The Grizzlies faced significant challenges during the 2023-24 season, finishing with a disappointing 27-55 record. Key issues included the suspension of Ja Morant for the first 25 games, the season-long absence of center Steven Adams due to knee problems, and a lack of depth that left the team struggling to find consistent production beyond their top players. Despite strong individual performances from players like Jaren Jackson Jr. and Desmond Bane, the team couldn’t overcome these obstacles.
For the Grizzlies, acquiring Zach LaVine would provide a substantial offensive boost. LaVine’s scoring ability and athleticism would complement Ja Morant, creating a dynamic backcourt duo. This move would help alleviate some of the scoring burden on Morant and enhance the Grizzlies’ competitiveness in the Western Conference.
Looking at it from the Bulls’ side, this trade offers a blend of present impact and future potential. Marcus Smart brings defensive strength and leadership, while Ziaire Williams and Santi Aldama provide youthful energy and versatility. The 2026 first-round pick gives the Bulls extra options for future moves or rebuilding projects, helping them to balance short-term success with long-term development.
