Recent NBA trade rumors have suggested that the Golden State Warriors are in the market for a second option behind Stephen Curry. This should mean that they can be expected to be busy between now and the NBA Trade Deadline on Feb. 6.
The Warriors have been in the hunt for a player of that caliber dating back to this past offseason. Golden State was linked to several stars like Paul George and Lauri Markkanen during the offseason rumor mill. Ultimately, nothing came to fruition.
Unfortunately for the Warriors, the trade market this season has been slow to present ready-made All-Stars available to be dealt. Brandon Ingram and Jimmy Butler are two names worth keeping an eye on, but so is the next player to be discussed.
Zach LaVine has had his name swirling in rumor mills for some time now. LaVine does not hold the same name value that he would have a couple of seasons ago. However, the former All-Star is still an effective offensive option and Golden State has revived careers (like that of Andrew Wiggins) before.
A trade between these two sides could feature the Warriors sending Wiggins, De’Anthony Melton, Kevon Looney, and a 2026 second-round pick (via ATL) to the Chicago Bulls, in exchange for LaVine and Torrey Craig.
The Bulls would receive two expiring contracts in Looney and Melton, along with some draft capital, and a piece they can reroute later in Wiggins. It would help them continue their present rebuild.
LaVine carries a hefty price tag with his contract, but his offensive upside could be too much to pass up for a team that ranks 15th in offensive rating.
This trade cannot be completed until after Dec. 15, due to the trade restrictions around Melton. However, once the date has passed, the Warriors could buy low on an All-Star caliber player who should still be able to pack some serious firepower in their system.