The Chicago Bulls are reportedly preparing for sweeping roster changes ahead of the NBA trade deadline, with Lonzo Ball, Zach LaVine, and Nikola Vucevic emerging as potential trade candidates. According to a report by Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, the Bulls have communicated their willingness to discuss the majority of their roster in trade talks, signaling a potential pivot toward rebuilding or retooling the team.
“Bulls executives, according to league sources, have been messaging to rival front offices that they are willing to discuss the majority of their roster in trade talks leading up to the Feb. 6 trade deadline. Most notably, sources say, Chicago has expressed a desire to move LaVine, Vučević, and Ball,” Fischer reported.
Together, the contracts of LaVine, Vucevic, and Ball total nearly $85 million. While this creates challenges in navigating the trade market, their varied skill sets and roles provide opportunities for contending teams seeking midseason reinforcements.
Zach LaVine's contract complexities contrast with Nikola Vucevic's tradeable value
Zach LaVine, 29, remains a centerpiece of the Bulls' offense but has proven to be a difficult asset to move. His five-year, $215 million contract, combined with his injury history and uneven production in past seasons, has led to skepticism among potential suitors. Despite this, Fischer reports that the Sacramento Kings, Golden State Warriors, and Detroit Pistons have expressed varying levels of interest in the dynamic guard.
This season, LaVine is delivering one of his most efficient offensive performances, averaging 21.6 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 4.3 assists while shooting 51% from the field and an impressive 43.4% from beyond the arc. However, his contract still includes two more guaranteed seasons, creating significant financial commitments for any acquiring team.
Nikola Vucevic, 34, offers a more tradable contract structure, with a $20 million salary this season and one more year remaining at $21.5 million in 2025-26. A consistent performer, Vucevic is having a standout season, averaging 20.4 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 3.2 assists. His shooting efficiency, at 57.1% from the field and 44.9% from three-point range, is among the best of his career, making him an attractive option for teams in need of frontcourt help.
“One GM told me he would put the two-time All-Star's likely price point in a trade at two second-round picks,” Fischer noted, highlighting Vucevic’s appeal as a reliable contributor without a prohibitive cost.
Lonzo Ball's injuries complicate potential Bulls' roster overhaul
The inclusion of Lonzo Ball, 27, in trade discussions introduces a complex dynamic. After missing significant time due to knee injuries, Ball made a limited return at the start of the 2024-25 season but has faced additional setbacks, including a wrist sprain suffered in late October. Ball’s availability has been sporadic, and his performance has yet to return to his previous levels. Through four games this season, he is averaging five points, 3.5 assists, 2.2 rebounds, and while shooting 41.2% from the field and 40% from three-point range.
Despite his injury history, Ball’s defensive instincts and playmaking abilities may still attract interest from teams seeking a complementary guard. However, his $21.3 million salary this season and $21.4 million for the next remain potential obstacles.
The Bulls’ front office, led by Artūras Karnišovas, appears focused on maximizing the value of its trade assets, with reports suggesting that nearly every player on the roster is available for the right price.
“Arturas is trying to drive up attention for all of his guys — he's smart,” a league source told Fischer. “The fact they were willing to move DeMar and [Alex] Caruso [this past offseason], they're willing to move anybody [now].”
Bulls face pivotal decisions ahead of February trade deadline
The decision to signal widespread availability, including key players like LaVine, Vucevic, and Ball, underscores Chicago’s urgency to recalibrate its roster. This approach could lead to a major overhaul by the February 6 trade deadline, depending on market interest and negotiations.
As the Bulls weigh their options, the futures of LaVine, Vucevic, and Ball will be pivotal in determining the direction of the franchise. While LaVine’s contract and injury history may complicate trade scenarios, Vucevic’s steady production and Ball’s upside — despite his injury concerns — offer intriguing possibilities for potential suitors. Whether the Bulls choose to fully embrace a rebuild or simply retool their roster, their activity leading up to the trade deadline will be closely watched.
Follow Us
Subscribe
