Lakers Emerge as Top Destination on 3-Time NBA All-Star’s Preferred Trade List… Read more…
Los Angeles, CA – July 7, 2025 — The Los Angeles Lakers may be on the verge of adding another star to their storied franchise, as multiple league sources have confirmed that a three-time NBA All-Star has listed the Lakers as one of his top preferred trade destinations this offseason. The player in question, reportedly frustrated with his current situation, sees the Lakers as a prime opportunity to contend for a championship and revitalize his career.
While the player’s identity has not been officially revealed by the team, several insiders believe the star is Zach LaVine, the high-scoring Chicago Bulls guard who has found himself at the center of trade speculation for months. LaVine, who has averaged over 23 points per game in each of the last five seasons, is believed to be eyeing a move to a bigger market and a more competitive roster.
A Rocky Road in Chicago
LaVine’s tenure with the Bulls has been filled with individual success but team mediocrity. Despite his explosive scoring ability and athleticism, Chicago has failed to build a consistent contender around him. The team missed the playoffs again last season, finishing 11th in the Eastern Conference with a 38-44 record. That outcome has reportedly led LaVine and his representatives to push for a fresh start.
League insiders have noted growing tension between LaVine and the Bulls’ front office, particularly regarding the team’s direction. With DeMar DeRozan having left in free agency and the team entering what appears to be a rebuild, LaVine’s desire to compete now puts him at odds with Chicago’s timeline.
Why the Lakers?
The Los Angeles Lakers, still led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis, are in win-now mode as they attempt to maximize what remains of James’ legendary career. Despite a disappointing second-round playoff exit at the hands of the Denver Nuggets, the Lakers remain a top destination for players looking to contend. Their ability to attract stars remains unparalleled.
For LaVine, Los Angeles presents several advantages. Not only would he be playing in a major media market, but he would also get the chance to contend immediately alongside two of the game’s best. LaVine’s perimeter scoring and off-ball movement could be the perfect complement to Davis’ interior dominance and LeBron’s playmaking.
“He wants to win, and he wants to do it now,” a source close to LaVine told The Athletic. “The Lakers give him the best opportunity to do that while still having a major role.”
Trade Mechanics and Hurdles
Acquiring LaVine, however, won’t be straightforward. The 29-year-old is in the second year of a five-year, $215 million contract, making his salary north of $40 million annually. For the Lakers to match salaries under the NBA’s collective bargaining rules, they would likely have to part with multiple rotation players and potentially future draft picks.
Names like D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, and even Austin Reaves have surfaced in trade chatter, though the Lakers have been reluctant to include Reaves in previous talks. L.A. also has two tradable future first-round picks — in 2029 and 2031 — that could sweeten any offer.
The Bulls are reportedly seeking young talent and draft compensation in return, signaling a willingness to enter a full rebuild. Whether the Lakers have the best package remains to be seen, as other interested teams — including the Miami Heat and Philadelphia 76ers — are also said to be in the mix.
Lakers’ Front Office Weighing Options
Rob Pelinka, Lakers General Manager and Vice President of Basketball Operations, has not commented publicly on the speculation. However, the Lakers are known to be exploring multiple pathways to improve the roster this summer. After re-signing key role players last year but falling short in the playoffs, the pressure is mounting to swing big.
“Rob understands the window is closing on this version of the team,” said ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. “If there’s a move out there that makes them better now, they’re going to strongly consider it.”
LaVine’s fit in L.A. could also benefit from head coach J.J. Redick’s offensive philosophy, which emphasizes spacing, pace, and ball movement — all areas where LaVine could thrive. Redick, entering his first year as an NBA head coach, may also welcome the addition of a dynamic guard who can create his own shot, especially in critical late-game situations.
Player and Fan Reaction
While the move is far from guaranteed, the reaction among fans and players has been swift. Lakers star Anthony Davis was reportedly “enthusiastic” when briefed on the possibility, according to The Los Angeles Times. Meanwhile, LeBron James has remained silent, but his history of supporting big moves suggests he would welcome another offensive weapon.
Social media has been buzzing with speculation, with hashtags like #LaVineToLakers trending nationwide. Lakers fans, desperate to return to championship form, appear mostly supportive — though some have expressed concern about losing young talent in the deal.
Former Lakers guard Derek Fisher chimed in on the matter during a recent radio interview: “LaVine’s a guy who can take over games. If they can make the money work without gutting the roster, I say go for it.”
What Comes Next?
With the offseason heating up, a trade could materialize quickly — or drag on if the Bulls hold out for a better offer. Both sides have incentive to act sooner rather than later: Chicago wants clarity heading into training camp, and the Lakers want to give Redick a full offseason to integrate any new additions.
As always in the NBA, nothing is final until ink meets paper. But one thing is certain: if Zach LaVine is indeed the All-Star eyeing Los Angeles, the
Lakers’ front office is now firmly on the clock.
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