Mock Trade Sends Zach LaVine To The Los Angeles Lakers For D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura

The Chicago Bulls and Zach LaVine are reportedly open to exploring a trade, and the Los Angeles Lakers are expected to be one of the teams that might make a move for the 28-year-old Bulls guard.

Currently, the Lakers don’t seem to be prioritizing major changes to their lineup, having focused on maintaining consistency and depth during the offseason. However, there have been whispers about the possibility of adding a third star to reduce the burden on Anthony Davis and LeBron James.

LaVine frequently appears on the Lakers’ radar and is a good fit alongside LeBron and Davis. His ability to average at least 24 points a game and singlehandedly take over games is why he’s a coveted trade target. That said, acquiring him would come at a significant cost.

So in the event the Lakers pursue LaVine, this could involve trading key players such as D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, and Taurean Prince. Providing further insights, Eric Pincus from Bleacher Report has detailed what a trade for LaVine could look like.

“The Trade: Zach LaVine, Torrey Craig and Terry Taylor for D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, Taurean Prince Jalen Hood-Schifino and a lightly-protected 2029 first-rounder. LaVine waives his trade bonus to join the Lakers. LA waits until closer to the end of December to sign a 14th player at the vet min.

Note: Drummond could replace Craig, though the money is tight for the Lakers staying under the first apron.”