Clippers Receive Zach LaVine, 2028 Top 3 Protected CHI FRP

Bulls Receive Norman Powell, PJ Tucker, Terance Mann

Clippers

The Clippers are in need of a true second option. James Harden at this point in his career can't be that. The Clippers are still trying to compete and with PG walking for nothing, they need to find a replacement. They get rid of a few role players on not so great contracts for LaVine and a future Bulls pick which could be valuable. Buying low on LaVine is a massive steal for the Clippers because he averaged 25 PPG on 49/38/85 just 2 years ago. His contract has made him a negative asset with many teams reportedly not willing to take him on for a FRP.

Ideal Starting 5: James Harden-Zach LaVine-Derrick Jones Jr-Kawhi Leonard-Ivica Zubac

Bulls

This move is obvious for the Bulls. They've chosen a rebuilding direction by trading away Caruso and DeRozan. LaVine has to be the next man to go. Many teams don't wanted LaVine even for a FRP, but I think the Clippers are a team that could use his scoring, so they take the risk. All 3 of the guys that they receive will likely end up traded elsewhere (maybe a 3 teamer?). They get off LaVine's contract to give them some flexibility and light protections on the pick in case things go bad. They have 3 years to get better, but for now they need to figure out who's a part of their core for the future and tank for a good pick.

Ideal Starting 5: Coby White-Josh Giddey-Matas Buzelis-Patrick Williams-Nikola Vucevic