Chicago Bulls (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
This is the summer of Zach LaVine for the Chicago Bulls — Round 2.
Back in 2018, the Bulls faced the reality of LaVine entering restricted free agency, meaning they could match any offer sent his way — and they did, when the Sacramento Kings signed him to an offer sheet.
Now an unrestricted free agent, LaVine is gearing up for the process, and he wants to enjoy the whole sha-bang. LaVine will be courted by several teams, with the Bulls hoping to re-sign him in Chicago.
Although LaVine can make the most money by staying in Chicago, there is always the possibility of him leaving. If he does, then a potential scenario involves a sign-and-trade. One recent rumor suggests the Bulls could move LaVine to the Dallas Mavericks, pairing him with Luka Doncic.
NBA insider Marc Stein believes the Dallas Mavericks are a possible landing spot for Chicago Bulls star Zach LaVine.
Stein writes:
“Sources nonetheless maintain that one option already being weighed by team brass is the prospect of joining the sign-and-trade bidding for the Chicago Bulls’ Zach LaVine, amid a growing belief around the league that LaVine, as he heads into free agency, has more interest in leaving Chicago than initially presumed.”
First of all, the mere fact that there will be a bidding war involving a sign-and-trade could be potentially good news for the Bulls.
Is it good news that LaVine could be leaving? Absolutely not. However, if LaVine does want to leave Chicago, then the Bulls should be fortunate to get something in return for his services. And, if there are multiple teams involved, then the highest bidder will likely be giving up a hefty package to land the All Star guard.
Second, Stein maintains the thought that LaVine has more interest in leaving Chicago than people originally thought. That is saying something. More than any rumor we have seen floating around, this one holds plenty of weight. Stein is plugged in, and basketball fans know this.
If LaVine did indeed head to Dallas, the Bulls would probably take on the contract of Spencer Dinwiddie to replace his spot in the rotation. But, they would also have to get draft compensation in return as well.
If the Bulls were able to get a package revolving around Dinwiddie, Dorian Finney-Smith and a first-round pick, at minimum, then that would be at least satisfactory. Bulls fans wouldn’t feel great about losing LaVine, but again, being able to get a haul in return will be better than nothing.