4 Bulls Leaving Chicago in the New Year

Zach LaVine

Talk about a renaissance. LaVine has already played more games this season than he did in 2023-24 and is close to his All-Star form. He is averaging 22 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.3 assists in 33.4 minutes per game. More impressively, he is in the midst of his most efficient season with 63.4% True Shooting, thanks to his impressive 3.3 made threes per game on 44.7% from downtown. 

This time last season, LaVine was considered one of the worst contracts in the league. He is making $43 million this season, $46 million next, and has a player option for $48.9 million for the 2026-27 campaign. While that is still a player-friendly contract, it is significantly more tradeable. 

The 29-year-old shooting guard can help any team in need of more shooting and scoring punch. He doesn’t have the best playoff resume and because of his contract situation, he will likely not be at the top of a lot of contenders’ lists. However, there are far worse contracts in the league. Would the Nuggets consider trading Michael Porter Jr. and a first-round pick for LaVine? How about the Pistons who are desperately trying to be competitive and relevant? 

LaVine’s resurrection means that the Bulls will have some options at the deadline and the offseason. They may still not get a ton of value for him but any positive draft compensation and a young player of intrigue should be enough for Chicago. 

The Bulls need to win less to maximize their draft lottery odds. LaVine helps them win games and that is not in the best interest of the Bulls. Sooner they move him, the better it is for their long-term outlook.