Kings 'have had trade calls' with Bulls on Zach LaVine, Alex Caruso (2024)

18/06/2024 21:21

The Sacramento Kings are actively exploring avenues to enhance their roster ahead of the upcoming NBA season. Recent reports suggest that the Kings have had trade discussions with the Chicago Bulls, focusing on acquiring Zach LaVine and Alex Caruso. This potential trade is part of the Kings’ broader strategy to strengthen their lineup, aiming for a deeper playoff run.

The Kings are reportedly using the same trade package they previously offered to the Toronto Raptors for OG Anunoby and Pascal Siakam.

This package includes veteran forward Harrison Barnes, shooting guard Kevin Huerter, and draft pick compensation. While these offers were not enough to secure Anunoby or Siakam, the Kings hope that this mix of experienced players and future assets will entice the Bulls to part with LaVine and Caruso.

The Kings' interest in Zach LaVine is particularly intriguing given his recent dip in trade market value. LaVine, a two-time NBA All-Star, saw his market value decline at the trade deadline, making him a potentially valuable acquisition at a lower cost.

His scoring ability and athleticism could provide a significant boost to the Kings' offense, which already features De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis.

Adding Alex Caruso to the mix would address the Kings’ need for defensive solidity and veteran leadership. Caruso, known for his tenacious defense and high basketball IQ, would enhance the team's perimeter defense, an area where the Kings have struggled.

The Kings are also keen to retain Malik Monk, another key piece in their backcourt. They are prepared to offer Monk a maximum contract extension of four years, worth $78 million. However, competing teams like the Detroit Pistons, Charlotte Hornets, and Orlando Magic are also showing interest in Monk, potentially driving up his market value. This financial reality makes acquiring LaVine even more appealing, as it provides a scoring guard at a potentially more manageable cost.

The current landscape for the Chicago Bulls

From the Bulls’ standpoint, the decision to trade Alex Caruso is complex. Caruso has been a cornerstone of the Bulls' defensive strategy, embodying their defensive culture much like DeMar DeRozan does on offense.

Despite receiving substantial trade offers at the deadline, including multiple protected first-round picks and at least one top-10 pick in the 2024 Draft, the Bulls opted to keep Caruso.

The Bulls’ front office, under pressure from ownership to remain competitive, chose to retain Caruso. This directive likely influenced their decision to hold onto him rather than embrace a rebuild.

Caruso's contract situation also plays a critical role. Starting July 6, Caruso will be eligible for a significant four-year, $78.8 million extension, which marks a substantial increase from his current $36.9 million contract.

The potential extension for Caruso under the new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) would escalate significantly, creating financial implications for the Bulls:

2025-26: $17.5 million (age 31 season)
2026-27: $18.9 million (age 32 season)
2027-28: $20.4 million (age 33 season)
2028-29: $22.04 million (age 34 season)

These figures represent a considerable financial commitment. Caruso's current $9.8 million salary for 2023-24 is regarded as one of the best-value contracts in the league, with his market value estimated at $28.3 million for that season alone according to analytical models.

The Bulls must carefully consider whether to extend Caruso's contract or explore trade options. Extending Caruso involves betting on his continued performance and health well into his mid-30s. His elite defensive play and leadership are valuable, but the risk of declining performance and potential injuries looms large.

Trading Caruso, particularly before his current contract's value depreciates, might be the prudent path. His bird rights could be attractive to over-the-cap contenders needing a defensive specialist, and trading him could yield assets for a future rebuild or retooling.

The Kings’ pursuit of Zach LaVine and Alex Caruso underscores their ambition to make a significant impact in the Western Conference. For the Bulls, the decision on Caruso’s future is pivotal.

Balancing the immediate competitiveness with long-term strategic planning will be crucial. The next steps for both franchises will be closely watched as they navigate the complexities of these potential trades, with the outcomes likely to shape their respective trajectories for the upcoming seasons.