Key Takeaways:
– A proposed deal would see Zach LaVine joining the Los Angeles Lakers, enhancing their star line-up.
– LeBron James recently backed the idea of LaVine as a teammate, highlighting LaVine’s scoring prowess.
– While the Bulls may rue losing LaVine without getting a draft pick, they would receive three solid players with manageable contracts in return.
LeBron James Backs Zach LaVine as Potential Lakers Teammate
As the Los Angeles Lakers begin their off-season strategy, pairing Anthony Davis and LeBron James with a third star is high on their agenda. According to Zach Buckley of Bleacher Report, the team might achieve this feat through a proposed trade involving Chicago Bulls player, Zach LaVine. In an exchange that wouldn’t implicate any draft picks, the Lakers are set to receive LaVine while the Bulls get D’Angelo Russell, Gabe Vincent, and Jarred Vanderbilt.
Buckley, in his May 7 article, highlights the potential benefits for both teams. While parting with LaVine might be a bitter pill for the Bulls’ management to swallow, the perceived benefit outweighs the cost. The Bulls, in Buckley’s perspective, could pivot their attention to the next big draught after a potential lottery win, drawing the curtains on the LaVine era.
The Aftermath of the Proposed Trade – What Lies Ahead?
The proposed swap deal might not yield a significant haul for Chicago. However, they would gain three decent players in the bargain, who come with more affordable deals than LaVine’s. If the Bulls contemplate a roster overhaul, these players could be instrumental assets in that goal.
LaVine, a client of Klutch Sports represented by Rich Paul, already found endorsement within the Lakers organization. Leading up to the deadline, LeBron James supported the idea of acquiring LaVine. The Lakers star has been vocal about the need for a star ball-handler, dating back to the failed bid for Damian Lillard in 2021 and the subsequent deal for Russell Westbrook.
James also encouraged the signing of his former teammate, Kyrie Irving in 2022, and again in 2023. Earlier, he supported potential trades to bring in Dejounte Murray or Zach LaVine, both Klutch Sports clients, into the Lakers. Although LaVine missed the Feb 8 deadline for a foot surgery announced on Feb 3rd, LeBron’s approval indicates a possible interest if LaVine is up for grabs post his recovery.
Potential Impact of LaVine on Lakers Squad
The planned addition of LaVine to the Lakers’ line-up aims to lessen the burden on James and Davis. Having recently turned 29, LaVine’s stats speak volumes. Since the 2018-2019 season, he’s averaged over 24.4 points in every season where he’s played more than 25 matches.
The two-time All-star is a prolific scorer, with at least 17.7 shots per game throughout that period. Additionally, his three-point game is commendable, with atleast 7.1 three attempts per match while maintaining a 37.5% success rate. By joining the Lakers, the UCLA alum would return home, bolstering the team’s ranks and providing a consistent 25-plus scorer every night.
In conclusion, this proposed trade, if it materializes, could potentially set a new course for the Lakers and the Bulls. For the Lakers, getting a high-scoring wingman like LaVine would equip them with another star to compete with the powerhouses of the NBA. Meanwhile, the Bulls could capitalize on the new additions, starting over, and possibly rebuilding.