Los Angeles Lakers are making headlines in the NBA trade rumors as they are reportedly eyeing a potential trade for Chicago Bulls star Zach LaVine. The trade proposal, put together by NBA analyst Andy Bailey, involves a three-team deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
In this proposed trade, the Lakers would acquire Zach LaVine and Thunder guard Aaron Wiggins. In return, they would send out D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, Jalen Hood-Schifino, and a 2029 first-round pick. Meanwhile, Chicago would receive Russell, Davis Bertans, Hood-Schifino, a 2024 first-round pick from Oklahoma City (via Clippers), a 2026 second-rounder, and a 2029 first-round selection via the Lakers. The Thunder’s part in the deal would see them acquiring Hachimura and former Lakers big man Andre Drummond.
The Lakers’ current standing at 22-23 in the Western Conference has led to speculation about potential trades to bolster the team’s performance. However, despite the connections between LaVine and the Lakers, ESPN’s Dave McMenamin reported that the Lakers are likely to pass on a trade for the star. The reasons cited include LaVine’s injury history, his production not translating to team success in Chicago, and the financial risk involved in his contract.
The trade deadline on February 8 is approaching, and the Lakers have a decision to make regarding their pursuit of Zach LaVine. With the team’s mixed results this season, the trade proposal adds an interesting dimension to the ongoing NBA trade rumors.