If the Los Angeles Clippers can’t acquire James Harden from the Philadelphia 76ers, they could try to trade for Chicago Bulls star Zach LaVine, according to a former NBA exec who spoke with NBA Analysis Network.
The Bulls have engaged several teams on LaVine trade opportunities since the 2022-23 season ended.
“The Clippers covet James Harden and are doing everything they can to get him,” the exec said. “However, if a deal can’t be reached, they do have a Plan B. Zach LaVine would become a very intriguing target for L.A.”
LaVine signed a five-year, $215.2 million deal with the Bulls in July 2022. He averaged 24.8 points, 4.5 rebounds and 4.2 assists last season while shooting 48.5% from the field, 37.5% from beyond the arc and 84.8% from the free-throw line. The two-time All-Star will make $40 million next season.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zach LaVine, Chicago Bulls & Los Angeles Clippers Updates
The Bulls want a young player with upside and multiple draft picks if they trade LaVine, who has career averages of 20.5 points, 4.0 rebounds and 3.9 assists with the Minnesota Timberwolves and Bulls. He’s one of the best scorers in the NBA, averaging 25.4 points over the last three seasons.
The Clippers could compete for a championship with LaVine in the fold next to Kawhi Leonard, Paul George and Russell Westbrook. Harden, who has requested a trade from the Sixers, wants to get traded to the Clippers, but Philadelphia doesn’t have to honor Harden’s trade request since the 10-time All-Star doesn’t have a no-trade clause in his contract.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zach LaVine, Chicago Bulls & Los Angeles Clippers Updates
LaVine is “not happy” his name keeps coming up in trade rumors, a league source told NBA Analysis Network, so his future in Chicago is certainly up in the air.
“Zach is not happy he keeps seeing his name pop up in trade rumors year after year,” the source said. “He’s represented the Bulls and the city of Chicago very well. He’s made two All-Star teams. He helped them get back to the playoffs. He’s played through several injuries. He hasn’t been a locker room cancer. For whatever reason, the Bulls keep dangling him in trade talks and it’s rubbing him the wrong way.”
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