As the NBA trade deadline looms near, the league is buzzing with rumors and speculation. Among the teams poised for a potential fire sale, the Chicago Bulls stand out, boasting three significant trade assets in Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, and Alex Caruso.  The latest reports indicate that the Los Angeles Lakers are still the frontrunners in the pursuit of Chicago Bulls’ All-Star Zach LaVine for a trade deal. However, some reports also suggest that the Lakers are actually more interested in acquiring DeMar DeRozan and Alex Caruso from the Bulls.

Nonetheless, the trade negotiations have hit a snag. As per reports, there are several factors contributing to the unlikelihood of the trade materializing. Let’s dive into these reasons.

Will a trade between the Lakers and the Bulls materialize?

According to Darnell Mayberry, the Chicago Bulls beat writer, the biggest hurdle preventing a trade is Chicago asking for a higher price than it seems reasonable. Although the Lakers’ priority would be to add Zach LaVine as their third superstar, his five-year, $215 million deal is limiting the chances for a trade since the Lakers would have to spend significant salaries in exchange. LaVine being a Klutch Sports client is a factor that might work in his favor, even still, LaVine does not seem to fit into the Lakers’ identity, which is built around size and defense.

Caruso’s affordable $9.25 million average annual salary makes him an attractive option. In addition, he is well-acquainted with the team, having spent four years with the organization. However, the Bulls are reportedly asking for multiple first-round picks, which, according to Lakers beat writer Jovan Buha, is a high price to ask and one that the Lakers “certainly” won’t agree to.

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DeRozan is in the final year of his three-year, $81.9 million contract and would become a free agent come summer if the Bulls don’t reach a deal on an extension. This makes him the only viable option for a trade. But there’s a hitch. The Bulls are unlikely to let go of him until they find a landing spot for LaVine.

Lakers unwilling to let go of Austin Reaves

Another huge factor in the trade hitting a roadblock is the Lakers‘ unwillingness to let go of Austin Reaves. Although he has had a rocky start to the season, he is performing like his former self since being moved to the bench.

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Therefore, Jovan Buha concludes, “Ultimately, I think a deal is less likely to happen than the recent buzz suggests…And I think the haggling over Reaves, pick protections and young assets could prevent the two sides from finding common ground. I’m skeptical that a deal gets done between these two franchises.”

Do you think a trade is imminent? Let us know in the comments!

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