NBA Trade Deadline: Zach LaVine’s Rookie Cards Are Poised for a Jump

With LaVine landing in a new situation where he’ll have a fresh start, his stock as a player, and as a collectible asset, could be on the rise. For sports card investors and collectors, now might be the perfect time to target some of his key rookie cards before the market catches up.

Jan 14, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; New Orleans Pelicans center Daniel Theis (10) defends Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine (8) during the second half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images / David Banks-Imagn Images

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The NBA trade deadline never seems to disappoint, and this year’s second blockbuster three-team trade that sent De’Aaron Fox to the San Antonio Spurs and Zach LaVine to the Sacramento Kings is no exception. With LaVine landing in a new situation where he’ll have a fresh start, his stock as a player, and as a collectible asset, could be on the rise. For sports card investors and collectors, now might be the perfect time to target some of his key rookie cards before the market catches up.

Jan 25, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine (8) shoots against Philadelphia 76ers center Adem Bona (30) during the first quarter at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images / David Banks-Imagn Images

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Zach LaVine has long been an electrifying scorer with elite athleticism, but his time with the Chicago Bulls never quite translated into sustained team success. Injuries, roster inconsistencies, and fit concerns limited his ability to take that next leap into superstardom. However, in Sacramento, he’ll join an exciting core featuring Domantas Sabonis and Keegan Murray, potentially stepping into a role where he can thrive offensively without having to carry the entire load.

From a sports card investment standpoint, a new environment often revitalizes a player’s market. If LaVine thrives in Sacramento and helps push the Kings deeper into the playoffs, expect his rookie cards to see a solid bump in demand.

2014-15 Panini Prizm - Zach LaVine #262 Timberwolves (Rookie Card) / eBay User: sdg232 via eBay.com | https://www.ebay.com/itm/375958845064?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=lkbk01wqqhs&sssrc=2047675&ssuid=S4GUwmyCT-K&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY

If you’re looking to capitalize on LaVine’s potential resurgence, here are some of his standout rookie cards to keep an eye on:

2014-15 Panini Prizm (#262)


The Prizm Rookie Card, along with its silver parallel, is the go-to rookie card for many modern NBA collectors. It’s one of the most liquid and recognizable cards in the hobby, and LaVine’s could see a nice appreciation if he takes off in Sacramento. PSA 10 copies are relatively affordable compared to other stars from the 2014 class, making it an intriguing buy-low opportunity.

2014-15 National Treasures RPA (#112)


For high-end collectors, LaVine’s National Treasures Rookie Patch Autograph (RPA) is the grail. Numbered to 99, this card carries significant long-term value, especially if he cements himself as a key contributor in Sacramento. If you believe in his talent, this is one of the most premium options available.

2014-15 National Treasures Basketball - Zach LaVine - RPA #112 / eBay User: MC Sportscards | https://www.ebay.com/itm/176703441094?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=yHQDLCU9R1-&sssrc=2047675&ssuid=S4GUwmyCT-K&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY

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Zach LaVine has always had the talent, but his tenure in Chicago left many wondering what could have been. Now in Sacramento, he has a chance to redefine his career and elevate his card market. For collectors and investors, the window to grab his rookie cards at a reasonable price might not be open for too long. If he thrives in his new role, those who bought in early could see a strong return on their investment.