“Can’t Find Any Takers”: DeMar DeRozan & Bulls’ Zach Lavine Dilemma Sees No End as Insider Explains Intricacies of NBA’s Harsh Rule

The Chicago Bulls have been struggling to make the playoffs even after having a dynamic duo. Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan have given their all, however, the Bulls have only managed to become a Play-In team in the past two years. But Chicago has been open to looking for teams who are interested in LaVine. Fast forward to 2024, with the introduction of the latest apron, the Bulls have been in a tough spot. On the other hand, DeRozan has been phenomenal, but the role players haven’t been up to the mark.

According to NBA Insider, Bobby Marks, the Bulls were not able to trade for LaVine. “Chicago’s been trying to move Zach LaVine forever. They can’t find any takers just to get off his contract. I don’t think even if they attach the first-round pick teams would take him.”, said Marks. While Chicago is just under the first apron, with their team salary estimated at $166.7 million, they have triggered the first apron hard cap.

Zach signed a five-year $215 million contract which includes a player option following the 2024-25 season. Trading LaVine would be tough considering his recent time spent on the court. The 29-year-old played 25 games this season before he went down with a foot injury. He was out for the rest of the season and will look to make his return at the start of the upcoming season. It is safe to say that the Bulls haven’t played in their full form in a while.

By the looks of it, Chicago will look to give LaVine and DeRozan another run before they can think of making any moves involving the two. Lonzo Ball is also expected to return soon, as the Bulls will have their desired roster. But when talking about the first and second aprons, how does it impact the Bulls?

What is the first apron and how does it affect Zach LaVine and the Bulls?

The first apron is a limit beyond which the teams cannot take back more salary in a trade. With the Bulls, their team salary is estimated to be around $166.7 million. Whereas the first apron limit is $178.7 million. They are quite close to hitting the first apron and if they do manage to bring in a similar star in place of LaVine, they might just be above the first limit. The franchise need not worry about the second apron, as they won’t be crossing the $189.6 million mark any time soon. If any team goes over the second apron, they’ll only be able to sign minimum-salaried players and left with major restrictions to initiate trades.

Well, the Bulls are in a comfortable spot when it comes to team salaries. Teams like the Warriors and the Clippers are well over the second apron, nearing $200 million. LaVine and DeRozan have only played together for three years. Still, the franchise could’ve at least expected playoff appearances, as their struggle is quite visible. The team has potential with the supporting cast including Caruso, Vucevic, and Coby White.

It will be interesting to see the Bulls figure out a balanced roster for the upcoming season. What are your thoughts on the second apron? Do you think it was necessary? Let us know in the comments.

For more interesting NBA content, make sure to watch our conversation with Leonard Armato, who speaks about the Lakers, Shaq, and more in the video below.