Explore the NBA trade landscape with three blockbuster scenarios that could reshape both the Lakers and Bulls rosters in unprecedented ways.
The Los Angeles Lakers have been solid but unspectacular so far this season. They are at the spot where many felt they would be, having a 6-6 record and not proving to be elite in any category. Los Angeles ranks 17th in offense (112.8 points per game) and 22nd in defense (115.9 points per game), meaning they are constantly getting scored on but do not have the elite shooting required to succeed in the modern NBA.
The Lakers are shooting 34.3% from three as a team, which is the eighth lowest in the NBA right now. The issue is that they aren’t scoring from mid-range or at the rim well either because other than LeBron James (24.6 PPG) and Anthony Davis (22.1 PPG), no player can consistently deliver at least 20 points per game. Without proper scoring and an inconsistent defense, which we have come to expect since the 2021 season, the Lakers need to find a third All-Star player to change their fortunes around and push for another Western Conference Finals appearance.
Meanwhile, the Chicago Bulls are on the other end of the spectrum in terms of not being a title contender but also having two All-Star players who simply don’t belong on the roster anymore. The Bulls have a poor 4-8 record and rank 20th in defensive rating while also having a net rating of -3.8 which ranks 22nd in the league. They can’t defend and also can’t score enough to make up for their deficiencies. Zach LaVine is the star of the team but is currently involved in trade rumors and looks to be unsettled right now, while DeMar DeRozan is the veteran All-Star of the team who is not having an impact.
With the Bulls possibly looking to blow up their roster as soon as possible, there could be three deals on the table right now as the Lakers can jump in and create blockbuster trade packages for at least one of the All-Star players. Since the Lakers want to win right away while the Bulls want to win, here are the three blockbuster trade scenarios between the two teams that can happen right now.
A Hefty Deal For All-Star Shooting Guard Zach LaVine
Credit: Fadeaway World
The first deal involves the Lakers offering a massive package to the Bulls in order to bring All-Star Zach LaVine to the team. The Bulls want to rebuild and will ask for a mix of young players and picks, so if the Lakers get desperate, they can offer a massive trade package for the 28-year-old LaVine.
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Zach LaVine, Alex Caruso
Chicago Bulls Receive: Austin Reaves, D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL), 2025 Second-Round Pick (LAL), 2027 Second-Round Pick (LAL)
This proposed trade involving the Lakers and Bulls centers around the acquisition of All-Star shooting guard Zach LaVine by the Lakers, signifying a significant move to bolster their backcourt firepower. On the surface, the deal appears to heavily favor the Lakers, who are willing to part with a mix of young talent and future draft assets to secure LaVine’s services.
From the Bulls’ perspective, the package they receive in return addresses various needs. Austin Reaves, a promising young player, adds depth to their roster. D’Angelo Russell, a skilled guard, could potentially become a key contributor, especially if he can rediscover the form he showed before leaving the Lakers. Rui Hachimura, a forward with solid potential, provides versatility and youth to aid the Bulls’ rebuilding efforts. The inclusion of three draft picks, including a 2029 first-round pick, enhances Chicago’s ability to invest in and develop young talent for the future.
For the Lakers, acquiring Zach LaVine would undoubtedly elevate their offensive capabilities. LaVine’s scoring prowess (career 38.2% 3-PT FG), athleticism, and ability to create his own shot make him a valuable addition alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The inclusion of Alex Caruso in the deal may raise eyebrows among Lakers fans, as Caruso has become a fan favorite for his defensive tenacity and role-playing skills and played a pivotal role in the 2020 championship season.
However, the Lakers are making a win-now move by securing a proven All-Star in LaVine. The deal implies a willingness to sacrifice some depth and future assets for immediate championship contention. The success of this trade ultimately hinges on the Lakers’ ability to capitalize on their current window of competitiveness with the newly formed trio of LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Zach LaVine. If they secure a championship, the trade could be deemed successful, but if not, it may be scrutinized for its long-term implications on the Lakers’ roster and future drafts.