The Chicago Bulls are actively seeking to trade Zach LaVine to prevent a potentially toxic locker room situation, according to a report by Joe Cowley of the Chicago Sun-Times.
LaVine has three years and $138 million remaining on his five-year, $215 million contract. Concerns have risen about LaVine’s distrust of the front office and head coach Billy Donovan, which could lead to a dysfunctional environment within the team.
The departure of veteran DeMar DeRozan, who served as a key buffer between LaVine and the Bulls’ management, has exacerbated these concerns. DeRozan was traded to the Sacramento Kings in a sign-and-trade deal this offseason, removing a stabilizing influence from the Bulls’ locker room.
LaVine, 29, has battled injuries last season, limiting him to just 23 games. Despite his limited appearances, he averaged 19.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.9 assists in 34.9 minutes per game.
The Bulls are wary of the negative impact LaVine’s dissatisfaction could have on younger players, fearing it could poison the team’s dynamic. As a result, they are exploring trade options to move LaVine and create a more harmonious environment for the upcoming season.
The move to trade LaVine is also financially motivated, as the Bulls aim to offload his substantial contract to free up cap space. This strategic decision is intended to position the team better for future acquisitions and long-term planning.
LaVine’s trade value remains high, given his scoring ability and athleticism, however, reportedly there is no market for him and the Bulls are unwilling to do a deal that they view as not beneficial to them.
