Michael Scotto of HoopsHype spoke to an NBA executive who got brutally honest about the trade value of Chicago Bulls stars Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan.
Both LaVine and DeRozan are expected to be traded by the Bulls before the February trade deadline.
“I think Zach LaVine can get a first back, maybe another first-round pick if it’s in this draft since it’s so weak,” an NBA executive told HoopsHype. “DeMar DeRozan is worth a first in this draft in the 20s since it’s a weak draft, and he’s unrestricted at the end of the season. He can be a third scorer on a winning team. I think he’s got some gas left in the tank.”
LaVine is averaging 21.0 points, 4.9 rebounds and 3.4 assists on the season while shooting 44.3% from the field, 33.6% from beyond the arc and 86.6% from the free-throw line. The two-time All-Star signed a five-year, $215 million contract with the Bulls in July 2022. He’s making $40 million this season.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls Updates
Meanwhile, DeRozan is averaging 21.3 points, 3.2 rebounds and 4.6 assists while shooting 45.0% overall, 36.4% from 3 and 81.0% from the foul line. The six-time All-Star signed a three-year, $85 million contract with the Bulls in August 2021. He becomes an unrestricted free agent after this season.
The Los Angeles Lakers are interested in acquiring LaVine and DeRozan. They can’t acquire both players due to money.
LaVine, LeBron James and Anthony Davis have the same agent (Rich Paul of Klutch Sports Group), while DeRozan took part in meetings at LeBron’s house in the summer of 2021.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls Updates
It will be fascinating to see where LaVine and DeRozan are playing by the end of the season. Both stars won’t be in Chicago, that’s for certain.
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