In today’s NBA, offense comes first. Yes, getting stops is still important. Defense will always have a place in the game. Still, if you can’t score, you’re going to get outscored in today’s game.
That hasn’t been a problem for the Sacramento Kings. They’ve got one of the highest octane offenses in the NBA. With that said, they struggle to stop other teams from scoring.
So, the natural response would be to acquire some better defenders – wouldn’t it? Perhaps. With that said, the Kings could alternatively lean harder into offense.
If they were to acquire another elite scorer, who knows? They may be able to score their way deep into the playoffs.
How about Zach LaVine of the Chicago Bulls?
NBA Trade Proposal: Sacramento Kings Land Chicago Bulls’ Zach LaVine
Chicago Bulls Receive: F Harrison Barnes, G/F Kevin Huerter, F/C Trey Lyles, G Davion Mitchell, 2026 First-Round Pick (SAC), 2028 First-Round Pick (SAC)
Sacramento Kings Receive: G/F Zach LaVine
On the other hand, some regard has to be given to roster construction. A team can’t simply outscore opponents – the system has to work.
If you need an example, take a look at the Bulls. This team has plenty of offensive firepower. It simply doesn’t fit together. LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, and Nikola Vucevic operate heavily in the midrange.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zach LaVine, Chicago Bulls, Sacramento Kings Updates
There’s a lot of talent in Chicago, but thus far, it hasn’t fit together. It appears that the front office intends to give up on the trio. The Bulls are widely expected to blow up their roster this year.
Should they start by sending LaVine to the Kings?
Why The Chicago Bulls Do The Deal
This isn’t complicated on the Bulls’ end. They need to rebuild. The only question is what they ought to receive for LaVine. Is this a fair deal?
We think so. It’s possible that Chicago would hold out for Keegan Murray. If so, the Kings are likely to pass. It’s difficult to find a workable trade that doesn’t include Barnes’ contract, and Sacramento can’t afford to lose both Murray and Barnes.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zach LaVine, Chicago Bulls, Sacramento Kings Updates
This should still work for Chicago. Mitchell is a young player who can be part of their core moving forward. Moreover, two unprotected firsts ought to suffice for an offensively gifted, defensively limited LaVine in the midst of a down year.
Should the Kings even target him?
Why The Sacramento Kings Do The Deal
The Bulls’ offense just doesn’t work on paper. Sacramento’s does. Domantas Sabonis’ ability to operate as a dribble hand-off hub compliments De’Aaron Fox’s ability to get to the rim perfectly. Is there room for LaVine?
Absolutely. The Kings don’t have a midrange maestro in his mold. That can be a valuable quality in the playoffs. When a system breaks down, LaVine can create from scratch. He should make an elite offense even better.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zach LaVine, Chicago Bulls, Sacramento Kings Updates
Is he a perfect acquisition? Not necessarily. The Kings’ defense is likely to continue suffering. Still, outscoring teams will be easy – isn’t that the most important thing?
