The Chicago Bulls may be in for a more eventful NBA offseason than they were originally planning for. Arguably their best player, Zach LaVine, is set to hit unrestricted free agency this summer.
Coming off of back-to-back All-Star seasons, LaVine is set to land a lucrative contract this offseason, many presuming he will land a max deal.
Originally, it seemed like it would be a foregone conclusion that LaVine would re-sign with the Bulls. However, that no longer seems to be set in stone. One team that has reportedly popped up is the Portland Trail Blazers, who can have more than enough cap space to sign LaVine.
However, if he is truly considering all options and is willing to leave Chicago, he will have plenty of suitors. While the options are limited when it comes to teams with cap space to spend, sign-and-trade deals could be on the table.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Should Bulls, Suitors Worry About This Zach LaVine News?
One team that could make sense as a landing spot for LaVine in a sign-and-trade deal is the Cleveland Cavaliers. Cleveland could certainly use more offensive punch and LaVine can certainly provide that.
He has averaged 24.4 points per game during his tenure with the Chicago Bulls, turning into a very solid all-around player. He has averaged 4.7 rebounds and 4.4 assists as well, turning into a dynamo on the offensive side of the ball.
Adding him to the backcourt with Darius Garland would give the Cavaliers a dangerous backcourt duo to carry the offense. With an elite defense already in place, LaVine’s shortcomings can easily be compensated for. A very intriguing Big 3 could be on the horizon with Evan Mobley possessing immense potential as well.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Should Bulls, Suitors Worry About This Zach LaVine News?
While Chicago doesn’t want to lose Zach LaVine in NBA free agency, a sign-and-trade with the Cleveland Cavaliers could at least get some solid assets in return. At least one first-round pick could be sent to Chicago, helping recoup the draft compensation they traded away to upgrade the roster in the last year or so.
Collin Sexton could be targeted as a player coming back to Chicago, providing the scoring punch they would be losing in LaVine’s departure. Isaac Okoro is another young player that could be included in the deal and Cedi Osman has also popped up in some trade rumors.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Should Bulls, Suitors Worry About This Zach LaVine News?
The Chicago Bulls will certainly do everything they can to retain Zach LaVine in NBA free agency, but if he is going to depart, the Cleveland Cavaliers present an intriguing landing spot for him.
