Eastern Conference contender out on Zach LaVine

Zach LaVine is not drawing interest from the Miami Heat. The Chicago Bulls star is widely expected to be traded before the Feb. 8 trade deadline. Initially, Erik Spoelstra’s team was viewed as a potential landing spot for the All-Star wing. According to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald, though, the Heat “have not been pursuing a trade” for Chicago’s star player.

The Bulls have struggled to start the season, going 5-11 over their first 16 games. They’re expected to hit the reset button in the coming weeks. Potential deals for DeMar DeRozan, Alex Caruso, LaVine and possibly Nikola Vucevic could all take place before the All-Star break. 

Miami is viewed as a potential trade partner due to their unsuccessful pursuit of Damian Lillard this summer. Pat Riley would like to add a third star to play alongside Bam Adebayo and Jimmy Butler. Yet, in terms of play style, Caruso projects to be a more desirable addition for Miami and would cost less in terms of assets. Still, the Heat are known to prefer star names and LaVine would fit that mold. 

In his 15 games this season, LaVine is averaging 21.3 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.3 assists on 43.1% shooting from the field and 33.9% shooting from deep. His offensive punch and secondary playmaking would undoubtedly elevate the Heat’s offense, both in transition and the half-court. 

However, with the season in full swing, it doesn’t make sense for the Miami front office to put all their eggs in one basket. If and when the Bulls decide to blow it up, the Heat can gauge Chicago’s interest in a potential deal. Until then, keeping their focus on winning games and developing championship habits has to be the goal. After all, the Heat are the reigning Eastern Conference champions; there are some heavy expectations on their shoulders.