Report: Trading Zach LaVine Is Bulls’ Offseason Focus

According to NBA insider K.C. Johnson of NBC Sports Chicago, trading Zach LaVine is the Chicago Bulls‘ offseason focus. 

The Bulls attempted to trade LaVine this season, but no teams were seriously interested in acquiring the UCLA product.

“Multiple outlets, including NBC Sports Chicago, reported previously that trading Zach LaVine remains an offseason focus,” Johnson wrote. 

LaVine played in just 25 games this season. He underwent season-ending right foot surgery in February.

A two-time All-Star, LaVine averaged 19.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 0.8 steals and 0.3 blocks for the Bulls this season while shooting 45.2% from the field, 34.9% from beyond the arc and 85.4% from the free-throw line.

LaVine signed a five-year, $215 million contract with the Bulls in July 2022. He’ll make $43 million next season and $45 million in 2025-26. LaVine is represented by Rich Paul of Klutch Sports Group. 

LaVine told NBA reporters in March he will be ready to go once training camp starts for the 2024-25 season. 

“I feel really good,” LaVine said. “I get the boot off soon. I’ve been able to be out here (in Los Angeles) rehabbing, getting everything right. There’s not a lot. I just have to wait obviously for the tendon to heal. And then it’s a straightaway rehab. My legs feel strong, body feels good.”

LaVine has career averages of 20.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 0.9 steals and 0.3 blocks with the Minnesota Timberwolves and Bulls. If he isn’t traded this summer, LaVine envisions no issues fitting back in with the Bulls.

“It’s not hard to fit back in, especially with the way I play the game and want to go out there and help,” LaVine said. “You never want to be hurt, but it’s not hard to see yourself back out there.”

LaVine has been linked to the Los Angeles Lakers, Orlando Magic, Atlanta Hawks and Detroit Pistons. The Bulls have won just one playoff game since acquiring LaVine from the Timberwolves in 2017.