3 key players the Chicago Bulls could trade this offseason

The Chicago Bulls could trade guard Zach LaVine in a sign-and-trade

First of all, let’s get this out of the way: Zach LaVine is unlikely to leave Chicago. Per the latest report by Brian Windhorst, LaVine is more likely to stay in Chicago than he is to leave.

But, if LaVine does end up leaving for one reason or another, it should be via a sign-and-trade. The Bulls cannot let LaVine leave without getting something in return, no matter what.

Last offseason, the sign-and-trade became more popular than ever before. More free agents ended up signing and getting traded than in recent memory. After all, that’s how the Bulls ended up getting both DeMar DeRozan and Lonzo Ball last year.

Some of the rumored destinations for LaVine, if he were to be traded, include the Atlanta Hawks, Portland Trail Blazers, Dallas Mavericks and San Antonio Spurs.

But, LaVine’s decision has to include a whole lot of thought about a whole lot of money. If he chose to stay in Chicago, LaVine can earn upwards of $215 million. Should he sign elsewhere, that team could pay him just under $160 million.

Now, again, he could be signed and traded. But, would another team truly be willing to take on a max contract like that?