Chicago Bulls rumors: Trade of Zach LaVine to the Orlando Magic
The Magic have a logjam of big men and could use more scoring and shooting on the perimeter. They had just the 22nd-ranked offense this season to go along with the league’s 2nd ranked defense, so it’s clear where they need to improve.
Here’s a trade that gets Orlando some scoring without giving up any of their top trade assets.
In this trade, the Bulls bring back Wendell Carter Jr, veteran Joe Ingles and a second-round pick in exchange for LaVine.
The Magic would have to opt into the team option they have for Ingles, who did appear in 68 games this season but did not have a big role. The Bulls would be on the hook for one year of Ingles at $11 million.
Carter Jr saw his role and numbers diminish this season, but still put up 11 points and seven rebounds per game.
I have doubts whether the Magic would move Carter Jr in such a deal given LaVine’s health status, but if they wanted LaVine’s scoring punch, these two contracts (or Jonathan Isaac) would be required to do it.
If healthy, the Magic would be getting a steal here and they do have a short window before all of their young guys get raises, but what about the Bulls?