The Miami Heat and Phoenix Suns have a ten-day timer to complete a deal that sends Jimmy Butler out West and Bradley Beal elsewhere. This deal will likely set the bar, or drive the bargaining power, of a potential Zach LaVine trade out of Chicago. He represents a comparable contract to Butler and Beal, cheaper to be exact, and is several years younger than both. Milwaukee has been rumored to want in on the action, but without a desirable asset to trade away to the Bulls alone, it's likely that a third team, or a new destination entirely, will be the resolution if a trade is completed before the February 6th cutoff. What has Chicago demanded to send away LaVine, and will any potential suitors be able to oblige?
Three First-Round Picks
Per Evan Sidery, an NBA contributor for Forbes, the Bulls have been engaged in LaVine trade talks for at least a month, some dating back to last year's trade deadline. With the final countdown for playoff contending teams to add talent before the deadline, the Bulls have made it known what they expect in return for their two-time All-Star guard. Beal has said that he will not play in Chicago, but the asking price from the Bulls to move LaVine will not waver and is still applicable to other trade partners.
The Bulls are open to taking on Bradley Beal’s contract, but it would potentially require three first-round picks to make it happen.
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) January 27, 2025
Keep an eye not only on the Suns’ picks acquired from the Jazz being traded, but also the Bucks’ 2031 1st if they get involved for Zach LaVine. pic.twitter.com/ckd82llXny
Is swapping LaVine for assets that won't aid in a win-now scenario worth three first-round draft selections? Considering Chicago has very little future draft stock and is headed for a third consecutive season without a postseason appearance, there's nothing to lose. This would bring a new face to the franchise and add draft stock to reinforce the organization's future.
Jimmy Butler Indefinitely Suspended
Butler's antics in Miami continued yesterday afternoon as he reportedly stormed off the practice floor shortly after learning he'd be coming off the bench upon return from his two-game suspension. His tenure with the Heat has come to an abrupt and ugly end. What was once an excellent marriage for the franchise and former All-Star has become a headache for both sides. Luckily for Chicago and Phoenix fans, this will only speed up the process and ensure he's gone by the trade deadline next week.
The Bucks are indeed interested in trading for Zach LaVine, per @KCJHoop (https://t.co/o6Q55TMOxF).
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) January 27, 2025
The Bulls’ most realistic pathway to moving LaVine is getting involved in the Jimmy Butler trade.
A deal involving the Bucks, Bulls, Heat and Suns appears to be gaining steam. pic.twitter.com/ZcMJUJ37VS
Will this year's deadline see one of the most massive blockbuster deals of the past decade, or will it all go up in smoke before next Wednesday?
