6 trades for the Timberwolves’ first pick in the 2020 NBA Draft
By Nate Ackert
Zach LaVine
Why the Wolves Say Yes:
The Wolves may view Zach LaVine as an upgrade over Malik Beasley that would likely cost only $3-4 million more per year than Beasley. LaVine would present a viable option for a third star next to Karl-Anthony Towns and D’Angelo Russell without the max-contract price tag at $19 million/year through the 2022 season. LaVine, a former fan-favorite in Minnesota, would return to the Wolves in another buzz-generating move that would incredible scoring and athleticism to a talented Wolves offense.
Why the Wolves say No:
The Wolves may see Malik Beasley as their long-term Shooting Guard with more defensive potential than LaVine. Additionally, LaVine’s injury history could be a major concern, and his defensive shortfalls would not help Ryan Saunders bolster the Wolves’ defense that has allowed 117.5 points per game this season, which ranks 28th in the NBA. Giving up an up-and-coming shooting guard in Beasley, a 2019 lottery pick in Jarrett Culver, and a potential top-5 pick in this year’s draft may prove to be too high a price to pay for an injury-prone, defensive liability at Shooting Guard.
Why the Bulls Say Yes:
Zach LaVine has expressed frustration with the Bulls organization on multiple occasions, and the Bulls could see this as an opportunity to unload an unhappy player and gather more young assets.
LaVine said the following about Bulls Coach Jim Boylen in an interview with Yahoo! Sports in November 2019:
"“I’m trying my best, I’ll say that. I’m playing my minutes and trying to do the best I can do. It’s tough, especially when you’re in a rut. If he doesn’t trust me, it’s hard to trust someone who doesn’t trust you.”"
This trade gives the Bulls a viable replacement at shooting guard in Malik Beasley, a top-10 pick in last year’s draft with untapped potential in Jarrett Culver, and a potential top-5 pick in the 2020 draft. On top of all this, the Bulls already possess a potential top-10 pick in this year, meaning they could end up landing two of the top players in this year’s draft.
Why the Bulls Say No:
The Bulls may see LaVine as the future of their franchise, making him untouchable in trade negotiations regardless of his frustrations. They may believe that with the right supporting cast under the right coach, Coby White and Zach LaVine can turn the Bulls into contenders going forward. Additionally, Chicago may not see value in Jarrett Culver due to his offensive struggles early in the 2019-2020 season, and they may not be interested in investing into a draft class that is considered generally weak.