Cap expert names possible teams, trade return for Zach LaVine
If the Chicago Bulls want to make meaningful changes this offseason and finally attempt to break out of their rut of mediocrity, then trading Zach LaVine this summer should be a priority.
Finding a taker for the injured guard with a mammoth three years left on his deal won’t be easy, but there are teams out there that could use his services.
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Recently, cap expert Keith Smith of Spotrac offered up a couple of possible teams, as well as what the Bulls could expect to get back from a trade of Zach LaVine.
Possible teams that could trade for Zach LaVine
We’ve talked about the possibility of the Orlando Magic trading for LaVine, as they have cap space and a need for his shooting.
The Detroit Pistons also have money and a need to make a splash, so they could inquire about LaVine again according to Smith.
He also named Philadelphia as a possible home for LaVine, especially if they strike out elsewhere in their quest to add another star with their cap space. I would also add the Hornets, Hawks and Kings as possible teams to watch for LaVine.
What could the Chicago Bulls get for trading Zach LaVine?
Finding a deal likely wouldn’t be that hard, but finding one that actually helps the Bulls won’t be as easy, as teams are not going to break the bank for LaVine.
Smith does believe that the return could be higher this summer and speculated about some possibilities that wouldn’t be the end of the world for the Bulls:
"The return won’t be a blockbuster. But Chicago should be able to get a combination of picks (perhaps a protected first-rounder or two) and young players (former first-rounders who need a fresh start). The other option is to flip LaVine for veterans who can aid in a win-now push to be playoff team. That’s probably easier to find in many ways and would keep the status quo as far as the standings go. "
If the Bulls could get any of these things for LaVine, they’d have to consider moving him, as they are bereft of first-round picks, young talent and if they wanted to go the other way, could still potentially compete next year with the right combination of veterans coming back in the deal.
Trading LaVine is the early focus of the offseason, and the Bulls will have to consider moving him if they can get a deal they can stomach.
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