One NBA writer is proposing that the Orlando Magic acquire two-time All-Star Zach LaVine from the Chicago Bulls this summer.
Greg Swartz of Bleacher Report proposed that the Magic trade Jalen Suggs, Gary Harris, Jonathan Isaac, the 11th overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft and a 2025 first-round pick to the Bulls for LaVine.
“The Magic look ready to make the playoff leap next season with continued internal growth,” Swartz wrote. “Of course, a trade for a two-time All-Star like LaVine would speed things up as well. LaVine, 28, averaged 24.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists and shot 37.5 percent from three this season. Put him in a starting lineup with Markelle Fultz, Franz Wagner, Paolo Banchero and Wendell Carter Jr. and suddenly opponents would have a real fear of facing the Magic. If the Bulls decide to rebuild, flipping LaVine for young talent and draft picks is one of the first steps.
“Suggs, 21, was the No. 5 overall pick in 2021 and would immediately slide into LaVine’s old starting spot. Harris is a reliable 3-and-D wing and Isaac is still only 25 after missing most of the past three seasons with injuries,” Swartz explained. “Chicago gets its own first-round pick back this year (11th overall) and a future pick from Orlando as well.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zach LaVine, Orlando Magic & Chicago Bulls Updates
The Bulls and Magic made a trade back in March 2021. Chicago acquired Nikola Vucevic from Orlando for Wendell Carter Jr., Otto Porter, a 2021 first-round pick (Franz Wagner was later selected) and a 2023 first-round pick. The Magic also received a trade exception.
LaVine is one of the best scorers in the NBA. The two-time Slam Dunk champion averaged 24.8 points, 4.5 rebounds and 4.2 assists this season for the Bulls while shooting 48.5% from the field, 37.5% from beyond the arc and 84.8% from the free-throw line.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zach LaVine, Orlando Magic & Chicago Bulls Updates
The 28-year-old LaVine signed a five-year, $215.2 million contract with the Bulls in July 2022. He is represented by Rich Paul of Klutch Sports, arguably the most powerful agent in the NBA.
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