Zach LaVine could be traded by the Chicago Bulls if the team gets off to a slow start this season, according to NBA insider Sam Amico. The Bulls missed the playoffs last season after making it in 2022.
Rival teams have checked in with the Bulls about LaVine‘s availability, according to NBA insider Jamal Collier of ESPN. However, no team has been willing to meet Chicago’s extensive 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.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zach LaVine, Chicago Bulls Updates
“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.”
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.
“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.”
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.
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