The Brooklyn Nets are unlikely to pursue a trade for Chicago Bulls shooting guard Zach LaVine, according to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports.
Teams are probing the availability of LaVine and there’s been increased openness from the Bulls and LaVine about exploring a trade, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic.
LaVine signed a five-year, $215 million contract in the summer of 2022. The Bulls missed the playoffs last season and a 4-8 start to this season has accelerated the timeline for LaVine and the Bulls to part ways.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zach LaVine, Chicago Bulls, Brooklyn Nets Updates
The Nets have multiple draft picks at their disposal. They could make a strong offer for LaVine, who is averaging 21.7 points, 4.9 rebounds and 3.0 assists this season.
However, it appears the Nets are comfortable rolling with their current core of Mikal Bridges, Cam Thomas, Cameron Johnson and Nic Claxton.
The Nets believe other stars will want to play for Brooklyn because of Bridges.
“I’m friends with a lot of people. I think friendships help,” Bridges said. “Obviously, if I think it’s a good option, then yeah. … Not unless it makes sense. I’m just trying to win now and do what it takes. You can talk about all the ‘what ifs’ and ‘maybe this,’ but you can’t control that. Other than that just trying to win now. I’m more locked in on the guys here.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zach LaVine, Chicago Bulls, Brooklyn Nets Updates
It will be interesting to see where LaVine lands. As for the Nets, they are focused on building around Bridges.
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