One NBA writer has proposed that the New York Knicks acquire Zach LaVine from the Chicago Bulls in a blockbuster trade.
Zach Buckley of Bleacher Report is proposing that the Knicks trade RJ Barrett, Evan Fournier and a 2024 first-round pick to the Bulls for LaVine.
“New York may no longer be willing to wait on Barrett, especially if it could essentially turn him and a single pick into LaVine, a two-time All-Star who’s pumped in 24-plus points each of the past four seasons,” Buckley wrote. “Maybe that’s optimistic—Chicago is asking for a ton—but maybe it isn’t. LaVine has knee injuries in his past and an incredible amount of money in his future.
“If this is enough to get LaVine—it all depends on the Bulls’ valuation of Barrett—the Knicks should think long and hard about it. LaVine is truly one of the league’s better offensive players, and his combination of scoring, creation and long-distance shooting could be exactly what New York’s attack needs to take the next step.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zach LaVine, New York Knicks & Chicago Bulls Updates
The Bulls have engaged several teams on LaVine trade opportunities since the 2022-23 season ended. The 28-year-old LaVine averaged 24.8 points, 4.5 rebounds and 4.2 assists for the Bulls in 2022-23. He will make $40 million next season. The UCLA product signed a five-year, $215.2 million contract in July 2022.
Chicago missed the playoffs this year after making it in 2022, which is why some NBA execs believe the franchise could rebuild this offseason. To that end, several execs are skeptical about the long-term marriage between LaVine and the Bulls.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zach LaVine, New York Knicks & Chicago Bulls Updates
LaVine would look good in a Knicks jersey. However, according to Stefan Bondy of the New York Daily News, LaVine doesn’t want to be traded to New York despite the organization possessing the necessary assets to pursue a deal. The guard doesn’t have a no-trade clause in his contract, though, so LaVine can’t veto a trade to the Knicks.
Want the latest NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here. Follow NBA Analysis Network on Twitter and Facebook.
