Zach LaVine’s name has been floated in endless trade rumors over the season’s opening months. There is a widespread belief that the Chicago Bulls would be willing to part ways with the All-Star guard if an offer that could upgrade their roster was to present itself.
According to Bleacher Report’s Chris Haynes, who was recently discussing potential trade packages for Dejounte Murray on a live stream, Chicago and the Atlanta Hawks could make a deal work for both sides. His proposed trade would see two players and a future draft pick heading to the Bulls, while LaVine would become Trae Young’s new backcourt partner.
The overall trade looks like this:
Bulls get: Dejounte Murray, Patty Mills, and a 2029 first-round pick
Atlanta gets: Zach LaVine
An interesting caveat to any potential deal between Atlanta and Chicago is that both LaVine and Murray are clients of Klutch Sports, which could make negotiations go smoother should both sides have an interest in doing a deal. Murray would provide some much-needed perimeter defense in Chicago while also getting the opportunity to flourish as a primary ball-handler.
In terms of a return for LaVine that would instantly improve the Bulls, Murray is a logical return. He’s a veteran in the league, can handle on-ball reps, defends at an elite level, and would slot in as either the primary guard or next to Coby White should he continue proving his value.
The front office has a tough decision to make regarding LaVine’s future with the franchise. Murray could be seen as a potential answer. He could not. Whatever happens, the clock is ticking on a decision being made before the February trade deadline.
