Rival teams have checked in with the Chicago Bulls about Zach LaVine‘s availability, according to NBA insider Jamal Collier of ESPN. However, no team has been willing to meet Chicago’s reportedly large asking price for LaVine, who signed a five-year, $215.2 million contract in July 2022.
“My camp isn’t putting them out,” LaVine said. “I committed to the Bulls when I signed my five-year deal. So until I’m not, I’m committed to the Bulls. I’ve always brought professionalism and consistent play, and that’s what I’ll continue to do.
“I love Chicago; I’ve always wanted to be in a place that wanted me, and Chicago showed me that. But obviously, trade rumors are part of the business. Are they wanted? No. But I’m a grown man, I’ve been traded before. I know how to deal with them. You have to take it that way; it’s a business, so I don’t get too upset.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zach LaVine, Chicago Bulls Updates
LaVine has appeared in 348 games with the Bulls. He’s averaging 24.5 points with Chicago. However, the Bulls have won only one playoff game since acquiring LaVine from the Minnesota Timberwolves in the summer of 2017 in the blockbuster Jimmy Butler trade.
LaVine averaged 24.8 points, 4.5 rebounds and 4.2 assists last season. He will make $40 million this season. The two-time All-Star is “not happy” his name keeps coming up in trade rumors, a league source told NBA Analysis Network. The Bulls have engaged several teams on LaVine trade opportunities since the 2022-23 season ended.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zach LaVine, Chicago Bulls Updates
“Zach is not happy he keeps seeing his name pop up in trade rumors year after year,” the NBA 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.”
If the Bulls are not in the playoff picture near the 2024 trade deadline, don’t be surprised if LaVine is traded.
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