Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine is averaging 22.1 points per game this season on 50.6% shooting from the field and 43.2% from 3-point range, setting career highs, and the UCLA product is in early discussion for NBA Comeback of the Year honors. players. However, teams still aren't lining up to trade the two-time All-Star.
Bulls trade rumors: Zach LaVine’s five-year deal worth $215.15 million this season and $89 million next season
A source close to the Bulls told ESPN's Brian Windhorst on Friday that “nothing has changed” about LaVine's status. LaVine's contract and his history with knee injuries could explain why the team made the clear move.
The 11-year veteran will earn $43 million this season, $46 million in the 2025-26 season, and has a $49 million player option in the 2026-27 season. His deal also includes a 15% trade bonus.
The NBA guard is currently averaging 22 points per game and shooting 50% from the field:
Zach LaVine
Kyrie Irving
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander pic.twitter.com/Xq7CMS6OEE— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) December 11, 2024
Windhorst said last week that the number of moves at the trade deadline may be reduced because teams are now more willing to be frugal with the types of deals they intend to negotiate.
NBA insider Jake Fischer reported in November that the Golden State Warriors internally discussed a trade for Zach LaVine last season, but they “don't have much interest at the moment.”
New apron rule keeping trade suitors away from LaVine?
ESPN's Shams Charania reported earlier this week that the Golden State Warriors, Houston Rockets, Dallas Mavericks and Phoenix Suns are four teams interested in acquiring Jimmy Butler from the Miami Heat.
Butler currently signed a three-year contract extension worth $146.39 million. Despite conflicting reports about his future with the Heat, at least one team is inquiring about the five-time All-NBA selection.
LaVine's status also remains unchanged due to the league's new tarmac rules. Teams are unwilling to pay anywhere near the top of the market for an injury-prone, inconsistent star. Unlike Butler, LaVine carries more risk than reward.
Last season, LaVine played only 22 games (all starts), averaging 19.5 points, 5.2 rebounds and 3.9 assists per game. Later, he underwent surgery on his right foot and was reimbursed for the season.
Trade rumors aside, LaVine leads the Bulls in scoring and has helped his team stay in the tournament. Chicago is now 10-15 and enters Friday's game ranked 10th in the Eastern Conference.
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