Grade the Trade: Bulls deal Zach LaVine to Knicks in blockbuster proposal

Chicago Bulls, Zach LaVine. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-USA TODAY Sports
Chicago Bulls, Zach LaVine. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-USA TODAY Sports
2 of 3
Chicago Bulls, Zach LaVine
Chicago Bulls, Zach LaVine, Mitchell Robinson. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Laying out the Chicago Bulls’ proposed return for Zach LaVine

The Knicks have four first-round picks from other teams plus all of theirs to offer in a trade. New York just finished fifth in the Eastern Conference and advanced to the second round of the playoffs. They are hungry to take the next step and eager to acquire a star.

That is advantage Bulls, and the latest proposal from Daily Knicks has them offering a massive haul for LaVine.

The Knicks add a star and a valuable rotation piece along with dumping Evan Fournier and Miles McBride off their books. Is that worth losing R.J. Barrett and three first-round picks? Barrett is a 23-year-old former top-three pick that will likely be a better player than LaVine in four years. New York wants to win now, and this move pushes them closer to that.

If the Knicks get on board, should the Chicago Bulls accept? Trading Zach LaVine could cost the front office their jobs after they went all-in to build a contender. Sending the 6’5 wing to another team could be the right move, but will they make it?

It is a tough decision and one that will alter the franchise forever. The decision won’t be easy, but should the Bulls accept this trade?