Ben Simmons and Zach LaVine are two of the most untradeable contracts in the NBA today. I’ve always thought a swap of the two was a decent idea, but Brooklyn doesn’t really need LaVine and he would be a good fit in Orlando. That idea, inspired by the linked trade, is actualzied here. (https://fanspo.com/nba/s/nets/trades/IvtbaQZZoybwnv/brk-cha-orl-swap)

Why the Bulls do this:

Chicago gets off LaVine’s contract long-term that no one seems to want and acquires Simmons to build a lineup of Coby/Ayo/P. Williams/Simmons/Vucevic, which Simmons is a clean fit into and may be able to revive his career. However, if it doesn’t work, his contract expires at the end of the season anyway.

Why the Nets do this:

In Cole Anthony and Jonathan Isaac, the Nets acquire real value in the Simmons cap block, which is nearly impossible in any other trade without more significant draft capital.

Why the Magic do this:

The Magic clear the PG minutes for Jalen Suggs and Anthony Black and acquire a great outside shooting star in LaVine who should be the perfect second or third option next to Banchero and Franz Wagner. This deal vaults them into the top tier of Eastern Conference contenders with Boston, New York, Philly, and Milwaukee. They also manage to somehow acquire draft capital in this deal that significantly improves their team.

What do you think of this deal? I am not opposed to the second rounders going to Chicago rather than Orlando, but the explanation still holds true for all three teams. Looking forward to the discussion in the comments!