NBA Trades: 12 stars that will likely change teams by next season
By Cal Durrett
NBA Star #8: Zach LaVine
Previously, Zach LaVine seemed to be relatively untouchable for Chicago, but without many assets, the Bulls are reportedly considering trading Zach LaVine, who is the most valuable member of their big three. He is also under contract for at least the next three seasons, although he is set to make $43 million on average during that span.
LaVine is a terrific offensive player, and while teams may show interest based on that, his contract could limit offers and decrease the chances that Chicago moves him. LaVine is just 28, and if the Bulls look to move DeRozan and let Nikola Vucevic walk, they could hope to retool around him in a couple of seasons.
On the other hand, Chicago would have to land a big free agent, trade for a star, or be bad enough to tank for a high pick in relatively short order. That seems unlikely to happen, particularly being bad enough to tank since LaVine would still be on the roster. Even if they were, they would have to pick a prospect ready to immediately contribute. Thus, the Bulls may opt to bottom out sooner rather than later, starting with dealing LaVine.