The Chicago Bulls are signaling their rebuild by letting DeMar DeRozan leave in free agency and circulating Zach LaVine in trade rumors. LaVine, once one of the NBA’s top shooting guards, struggled with injuries during the 2023-24 season, playing in just 25 games and averaging 19.5 points on 34.9% shooting from three. However, at 28, LaVine still has the talent to help a team like the San Antonio Spurs, who are aiming to build a strong roster around rising star Victor Wembanyama.
A proposed mock trade could send LaVine to San Antonio, where he would join forces with Wembanyama, forming a potent duo. The trade details suggest the Spurs would receive LaVine, while the Bulls would get Keldon Johnson, Zach Collins, and Tre Jones in return. This move would provide LaVine with a fresh start, while the Bulls continue to focus on their young core.
For the Spurs, acquiring LaVine could significantly boost their playoff hopes. Despite his down season, LaVine remains a dangerous scorer, and his pairing with Wembanyama would offer San Antonio a dynamic inside-outside combination. His ability to score from all levels of the floor, combined with veteran leadership from Chris Paul, could elevate the Spurs’ offense and accelerate their competitive timeline.
Meanwhile, the Bulls would benefit from the infusion of young talent, with Johnson, Collins, and Jones providing versatility and potential. Johnson has shown flashes of brilliance, averaging 18.7 points over the past two seasons, while Collins and Jones add depth and stability to Chicago’s roster.
Ultimately, this trade could give Wembanyama the help he needs to thrive in the NBA, while the Bulls gain assets to fuel their rebuilding efforts. The Spurs’ decision to bring in a proven scorer like LaVine demonstrates their intent to shift from development to competition, aiming to create a winning culture around their new franchise cornerstone.
