The Chicago Bulls are in perpetual no man’s land. At least for the time being. Despite some fantastic early returns, their splurge in 2021 hasn’t paid off. Instead, a bloated roster with an underperforming record has been their story for three straight NBA seasons. But, it looks like the team has a vision and is actively working towards it.
This offseason has been exhibit A of their bid to rebuild. Trading away two veterans in their 30s, the returns weren’t ideal. But, they were a step in a younger direction for a rebuilding team.
Swapping out Alex Caruso for Josh Giddey was interesting. But, given his performance down in Paris, the optimism might be multifold from the fandom.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zach LaVine, Chicago Bulls Updates
Similarly, moving DeMar DeRozan for Chris Duarte and Trey Lyles was a move to inculcate youth on the roster. With MIP candidate Coby White and Patrick Williams still on the team, there is a foundation there for Chicago. But, their move-making days aren’t over just yet.
They have two pieces in Zach Lavine and Nikola Vucevic to get rid of.
The Market for Zach Lavine
Despite the moves already on the books, head of basketball operations Arturas Karnisovas is definitely looking to move off the two veterans. In Lavine’s case, that deal is yet to be done, despite rumors flying for over a year.
Despite his status as an All-Star and after bagging a 5-year, 215 million deal in 2022, Chicago and Zach remain far apart. Whether it is on-court production or general vibes, the outlook hasn’t been great in the Windy City.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zach LaVine, Chicago Bulls Updates
According to reports, most notably by Jamal Collier of ESPN, that has come into film sessions as well. “ LaVine has also felt singled out during film sessions and feels like he has taken too much blame for the team’s losing during his tenure – which has produced one playoff appearance in seven years – despite other loss to feelings, sources told ESPN.”
From that report, in particular, it doesn’t look like this bridge will mend either way. As a result, a trade remains the only likely option. However, the market for Zach is completely dry. While his intent to go to the Los Angeles Lakers was clear as day, interest from the other side hasn’t materialized. In his career, LaVine has never been part of “winning basketball.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zach LaVine, Chicago Bulls Updates
Further, with injuries limiting him to 25 games last season, questions about his productivity will go up. Additionally, he still has three years and $138 million left on his deal, making it impossible for teams to take a flyer on the high-flyer.
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