5 Players Bulls might replace Zach LaVine with by the trade deadline
By Tyler Watts
4. Immanuel Quickley
The Knicks’ time to acquire a co-star is running out. They have all of their first-round picks plus four from other teams, but three could be conveyed in the 2024 draft. New York has eight months to make a blockbuster move. They have been waiting for the perfect target, but soon may have to take the best available option.
Quickley continues to improve, but the 24-year-old’s minutes are capped in New York playing behind Jalen Brunson and R.J. Barrett. He averaged 14.9 points, 4.2 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 1.0 steal in 28.9 minutes per game last season. His efficiency took a massive leap, and the 6’3 guard is extension-eligible. He is working on a new deal with the Knicks but could become expendable if the two sides cannot agree.
The Bulls would love to add a young talent in a Zach LaVine trade if they are rebuilding. Quickley might get all the minutes and shots he could handle in Chicago down the stretch. It would help them determine his optimal role, and Chicago could use the draft capital they acquire to build out a young roster.
The Chicago Bulls have shown zero interest in starting over. They re-signed Nikola Vucevic and added in free agency. Their goal is to return to the playoffs, which means the front office will likely attempt to upgrade with Zach LaVine over adding young talent on rookie deals.