Zach LaVine moves ahead on his recovery journey from foot surgery with the aim of returning to action for the 2024-25 NBA season, the Chicago Bulls front office is reportedly gearing up to explore trade options once again this summer.
According to K.C. Johnson of NBC Sports Chicago, the Bulls are “set to revisit trade discussions” involving LaVine after failing to strike a deal last offseason or prior to this year’s trade deadline.
LaVine underwent surgery in February, effectively ending his season, but he’s making promising strides in his rehabilitation and anticipates being back in action for training camp, ahead of schedule, as reported by Johnson. Despite his absence on the court, LaVine’s value remains undoubted, boasting impressive career averages of 20.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 3.9 assists. He’s a two-time All-Star and was posting solid numbers of 19.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game in the 25 games he played this season before being sidelined.
The Bulls will look to trade Zach LaVine again this offseason, per @KCJHoop
(Via https://t.co/ZVVHdSAHFb) pic.twitter.com/Q0kkFu94e2
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) March 12, 2024
Under contract until the 2025-26 season with a player option for 2026-27 worth a hefty $49 million, LaVine’s salary could potentially be utilized by the Bulls to orchestrate a roster makeover and inject fresh talent into the team.
Despite the potential for a trade, LaVine remains committed to the Bulls and hasn’t actively sought a move elsewhere. He envisions a seamless return to the team if he stays, expressing his eagerness to contribute on the court once he’s fully recovered.
“It’s not difficult to slide back into the team, especially considering my style of play and my eagerness to make an impact,” LaVine stated, as cited by Johnson. “Obviously, nobody wants to deal with injuries, but I’m confident in my ability to make a smooth comeback and help the team achieve success.”
The Bulls currently find themselves in a middling position in the Eastern Conference, sitting ninth with a 31-34 record.
