The Toronto Raptors Consider Trade for Bulls’ Zach LaVine. The Bulls find themselves at a crossroads, and dealing with LaVine can play into their rebuilding plans. The franchise is eager to get rid of LaVine’s costly deal, which runs for three more years at $138 million.
The Bulls are at that awkward stage where they aren’t good enough to tank but aren’t good enough to truly compete. Moving LaVine’s deal would save them the headache and give them a chance to start fresh. They’ve moved on from significant contributors this summer, including DeMar DeRozan and Alex Caruso, and seem to be changing course.
Meanwhile, the Raptors are considering a trade for Bulls’ Zach LaVine. Colin Keane wrote, “The Toronto Raptors stand out as a team that could be interested in adding LaVine.” Assuming Scottie Barnes, Immanuel Quickley, and RJ Barrett are secured on long-term deals, the Raptors are highly wanting in pure scoring power. LaVine can certainly fill the void in their depth chart.
In return for LaVine, the Bulls could take on expiring contracts like Bruce Brown’s $23 million and Kelly Olynyk’s $12.8 million per season over two years. Keane says, “The Bulls would definitely take these expiring deals in exchange for LaVine.” While a deal involving LaVine to the Raptors has not been on the docket much in league circles, it would be one that makes sense for both sides.
LaVine’s contract size and injury history raise concerns, but his scoring ability is undeniable. LaVine has averaged 20.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 3.9 assists in 580 regular-season games. He has played for both the Bulls and the Minnesota Timberwolves. A two-time All-Star, his talent isn’t in question when he’s on the court.
LaVine would, of course, go a long way toward propelling the Raptors into relevance. However, his defensive shortcomings and injury history create some real fit questions within the context of the team. Trading LaVine is essential for the Bulls to rebuild effectively. In contrast, finding a suitable trade partner has been challenging.
The bottom line is that there is something for both teams to gain from this possible trade-off. The Raptors consolidate their scoring options, while the Bulls get cap space to free them up for a fresh start. Worth a gamble, for sure, as both franchises just might come out winners in the process.
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