A trade idea sends Zach LaVine from the Windy City to the Big Apple

The Chicago Bulls' superb play in their last 12 games has dulled the noise surrounding All-Star guard Zach LaVine. However, with the trade deadline fast approaching, rumors of a potential move to the New York Knicks have resurfaced. Here’s a trade proposal put forth by Bleacher Report that would send the high-flying wingman to the New York Knicks:

LaVine for a package highlighted by RJ Barrett

The trade idea sees LaVine and backup big man Andre Drummond being sent to the Knicks for Barrett, Evan Fournier, and a 2024 first-round pick.

This trade presents an opportunity for the Bulls to shake off the bad vibes generated by the LaVine trade rumors and alleviate the burden of his substantial salary. It also helps that the Bulls are getting their hands on a promising player like Barrett, who has averaged over 18 points in his young four-year career.

“As for Chicago, it could have visions of building a long-term core around Barrett, Patrick Williams, and Coby White. Its finances would become much easier to manage after unloading LaVine and bringing back Fournier, who holds a $19 million team option for next season. And while this pick can't crack the top 10, it would have a non-zero chance of landing somewhere near the middle of the first round,” Zach Buckley wrote.

I miss this RJ Barrett pic.twitter.com/ok3LHo6yx6
— Alex B. (@KnicksCentral) December 24, 2023

There’s a hitch

However, this potential trade may hit a roadblock, as LaVine and his representatives have reportedly made it clear they don’t want to land in New York. According to New York Daily News’ Stefan Bondy, this stance is because they believe the Knicks’ front office, led by former CAA agent Leon Rose, prioritizes CAA clients in their roster-building process.

"Keep him for away from me. Keep him far away from my team. I don't need Zach LaVine here."

Should the Knicks try to add Zach LaVine? @iHateShaun, @KCJHoop and Ian debate on The Putback with @IanBegley: https://t.co/zv5sh5S4gt pic.twitter.com/Zhh1lH2Tom
— Knicks Videos (@sny_knicks) December 21, 2023

LaVine for a package highlighted by RJ Barrett

There’s a hitch

Billy Donovan maintains optimism about Zach LaVine's integration into the Bulls' new system