The Phoenix Suns appear all-in on acquiring disgruntled Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler, but if they are unable to agree terms, they could turn to another talent in Zach LaVine. The Chicago Bulls have long entertained the idea of trading the two-time All-Star in their continued attempts to enter a rebuild, but have not been able to move on. Phoenix emerged as an interesting destination, as Jake Fischer describes them as a team to watch.
Suns insider John Gambadoro reported that a move for LaVine seems unlikely but would not rule it out. It feels like a very far-fetched plan B or even C. But it prompts an intriguing discussion should their pursuit of Butler fail. What does the fit look like, and could a deal be struck?
Phoenix Suns Could Pivot to Another All-Star if Butler Pursuit Fails
A Beal-LaVine Swap Could Appeal to Both Sides
As much as there is a desire from the Suns to trade for Butler, there is just as much a want to move on from Bradley Beal’s large contract. It includes two years, $110 million and a no-trade clause. Finding a third team appears to be the biggest stumbling block, but Chicago could be where he may end up. The extra caveat of finding a side who Beal would waive his no-trade clause for looms large, but an already existing connection between himself and Bulls head coach Billy Donovan could prove enticing.
Beal played under Donovan during his time at the University of Florida and might welcome a reunion, despite the Bulls’ lack of championship hopes. For the Suns, a Beal and LaVine swap seems like a sideways move on the court, but removing the contract from their payroll gives them just a bit more financial flexibility in the future. LaVine’s contract is also not ideal to take on, but for this season and next, it would save them around $7 million per year.
However, a parting of ways between LaVine and the Bulls may not be as likely as it once was. Chicago was willing to move on, even attaching assets alongside him when he was struggling with injuries. This season has offered a different story, as LaVine is enjoying a much-improved and healthier campaign. He’s appeared in 40 of 45 games this season, averaging 24 points on 51.3% efficiency. His performance will only make his asking price go up. Taking on Beal’s contract means it’s likely that the Bulls would get further draft capital to help facilitate a rebuild.
Zach LaVine’s Fit With the Suns
It is hard to envisage how a LaVine addition would elevate the Suns from a play-in team to a contender, let alone a favorite to win it all. But the subtraction of Beal’s contract gives them options going forward. On the court, the swap of shooting guards may be redundant. Most of the Suns’ struggles lie on the defensive side of the ball.
However, LaVine offers just a bit more size and athleticism which could mask some flaws on that end. Given Beal’s current position in coming off the bench, it would require further tinkering in the lineup, perhaps moving Tyus Jones or rookie Ryan Dunn to the second unit, though the latter has performed admirably in his new role.
Beal should benefit from getting more touches as a first option on the Bulls as opposed to the third man on the Suns behind Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. It must not be forgotten the numbers he was able to produce during his time with the Washington Wizards. This included back-to-back 30+PPG seasons. However, a reduction in usage could cause a similar problem for LaVine, which should make the Suns proceed with caution.
Could LaVine Still Be Traded Elsewhere?
If not to the Suns, LaVine could still be on the move in the Butler trade. Many reports suggest a potential Butler transaction could include more than three teams. There are plenty of teams who are interested in facilitating the trade, the Bulls included. There have been potential scenarios suggested that still land Beal with the Bulls, but instead of the Suns, LaVine ends up with either the Heat or Milwaukee Bucks. The Bucks’ reported desperation to trade and willingness to move on from Khris Middleton also makes this a possibility.
Any deal could be one of the largest in NBA history in terms of the number of teams involved. It is certainly among the most complicated. Currently, Butler is serving a second suspension from the Heat. This is likely going to lead to the inevitable breakup between the pair. He is reportedly the Suns’ priority, just as they are his, but it may not end that way. Trades are being put on hold, with Butler’s potential deal taking precedence. Though with less than two weeks until the trade deadline, it is anybody’s guess as to what will occur.
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