The Chicago Bulls are eager to move on from LaVine this offseason after failing to secure a trade for him during the season.
In his latest mailbag, Johnson wrote, “Content may be the wrong word, but it seems both sides are motivated to make something happen this offseason. The Bulls won’t settle for a bad deal if there are no good offers, but they seem more open to possibilities than before. Previously, they sought All-Star level talent, first-round picks, or both, but it appears their asking price has significantly dropped.”
Johnson compared the situation to a relationship that has run its course, noting that both sides have remained professional. However, the desire for change is mutual.
LaVine, who played just 25 games this season before undergoing season-ending right foot surgery in February, averaged 19.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.9 assists while shooting 45.2% from the field, 34.9% from three-point range, and 85.4% from the free-throw line.
LaVine signed a five-year, $215 million contract with the Bulls in July 2022. His salary for the next season is $43 million, increasing to $45 million in 2025-26.
Throughout his career with the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Bulls, the UCLA product has averaged 20.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game. Since acquiring LaVine from Minnesota in 2017, Chicago has won only one playoff game.
According to a source from Hoops Wire, LaVine “would like” to be traded to the Los Angeles Lakers. LaVine shares an agent, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports Group, with LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
Despite this, NBA insider Jovan Buha of The Athletic does not anticipate the Lakers pursuing a trade for LaVine this offseason.
