One NBA writer is proposing that the Orlando Magic acquire Zach LaVine from the Chicago Bulls.
Sam Vecenie of The Athletic proposed the following trade idea between the Magic and Bulls:
The Trade: Zach LaVine for Jonathan Isaac, Gary Harris, Jett Howard, Chuma Okeke and a first-round pick
LaVine and the Bulls are open to parting ways. The Magic, who haven’t made the playoffs since 2020, could start Markelle Fultz, LaVine, Franz Wagner, Paolo Banchero and Wendell Carter Jr. if Orlando’s front office figured out a way to acquire LaVine from Chicago.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zach LaVine, Chicago Bulls, Orlando Magic Updates
LaVine is averaging 21.3 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.3 assists this season while shooting 43.1% from the field, 33.9% from beyond the arc and 87.2% from the free-throw line.
“Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner have been playing in a phone booth for large swaths of their young careers, with little space to operate and create shots. Banchero’s power and balance make him a force, and Wagner is a terrific 6-foot-9 forward with an immense amount of skill and strong shooting ability,” Vecenie wrote. “They’re missing shooting around them; Orlando is making just 32.9 percent of its 3s, and is 24th in the NBA in 3-point attempt rate. Enter LaVine, who is one of the best shooters in the NBA and a superb fit with the Magic’s two young forwards.”
LaVine scored a career-high 51 points against the Detroit Pistons in October. He’s the ideal scorer, shooter and slasher to pair alongside Wagner and Banchero.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zach LaVine, Chicago Bulls, Orlando Magic Updates
A two-time All-Star, LaVine is making $40.1 million this season. He signed a five-year, $215.2 million contract with the Bulls in July 2022. LaVine has career averages of 20.5 points, 4.0 rebounds and 3.9 assists with the Minnesota Timberwolves and Bulls.
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