According to NBA podcaster Jason Goff, members of the Chicago Bulls believe they are “better” without Zach LaVine.
LaVine and the Bulls are looking to part ways, but Chicago has struggled to find a trade partner due to his injury history and hefty contract.
What’s next for Zach LaVine if Chicago moves on from him? 🤔@VinceGoodwill | @Jason1Goff | #BallDontLie pic.twitter.com/8RYq7bJQcw
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) July 23, 2024
LaVine played only 25 games in the 2023-24 season, undergoing season-ending right foot surgery in February.
A two-time All-Star, LaVine averaged 19.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.3 blocks in 2023-24, shooting 45.2% from the field, 34.9% from three, and 85.4% from the free-throw line.
LaVine signed a five-year, $215 million contract with the Bulls in July 2022.
A UCLA product, LaVine has career averages of 20.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.3 blocks with the Minnesota Timberwolves and Bulls. He has a career record of 216-364.
A source told Hoops Wire that LaVine “would like” to be traded to the Los Angeles Lakers. LaVine, LeBron James, and Anthony Davis share the same agent (Rich Paul of Klutch Sports Group).
However, sources say the Lakers are not expected to pursue a LaVine trade. His trade value is low due to his recent surgery and the three years and $138 million left on his contract.
NBA reporter Joe Cowley of the Chicago Sun-Times notes that the relationship between LaVine and the Bulls is “filled with mistrust.”
“An NBA insider told the Sun-Times on Tuesday that the relationship between LaVine and the team’s top brass is completely shattered and ‘filled with mistrust.’ LaVine and his representation at Klutch Sports feel misled on possible trade destinations, and the Bulls thought LaVine ‘opting’ for season-ending right foot surgery when rehab was still an option was a low blow,” Cowley reported.
The Bulls acquired LaVine from the Timberwolves in 2017. They have made the postseason only once during LaVine’s tenure.
