With rising competition around the league, the Nuggets have begun their search for another superstar to pair alongside Nikola Jokic. Their potential target? Zach LaVine. There have even been murmurs about the franchise putting Michael Porter Jr. in the trade block to facilitate that move. However, the Nuggets are facing a major dilemma that is causing hindrance in their pursuit of the Bulls star.

Well, because of LaVine’s massive $138 million pending salary, the Nuggets would be required to add more assets to the trade package along with MPJ. Zeke Nnaji seems to be a viable option with his $32 million contract. However, reports suggest that the Bulls have shown no interest in taking Nnaji’s contract in any discussion surrounding LaVine.

Nnaji has turned into a mere bench warmer for the Nuggets as he is averaging a career-low 4.9 minutes of playing time this season. Obviously, that has caused a decline in his productivity, averaging only 1.3 points. Moreover, it does not help that his new contract came into effect this year, which could be the reason why the Bulls are not interested in him. That’s because it will be difficult to trade him in the future with four years left on his deal.

Unfortunately, the Bulls’ reluctance limits the Nuggets’ options, as they are already dealing with second-apron restrictions. The one-on-one LaVine-Porter exchange is not possible because MPJ’s current salary is $35.9 million, nearly seven million less than LaVine’s. And the Nuggets do not have many available assets they can afford to lose without ruining their chances of winning a title. But why are the Nuggets even interested in adding LaVine?

Potential Zach LaVine trade fills a major void in the Nuggets’ roster

Well, the Bulls have been desperate to get rid of LaVine for quite some time. But they have had a difficult time finding potential suitors due to his massive contract and constant injury woes. So, why are the Nuggets reportedly willing to give up MPJ and Nnaji to acquire the high flyer? That’s because LaVine fulfills their need for an elite scorer. Yes, although the two-time All-Star has not played in high-pressure situations, he has been a consistent 20+ point scorer throughout his career.

Even this season, he is averaging 22.3 points and over four assists. Moreover, he has been available and healthy for most games so far. Sure, Michael Porter Jr. is also averaging similar numbers at 18.4 points per game. And he is arguably a better deep-range shooter than LaVine. However, MPJ requires ball handlers to feed him the ball for open shots. Meanwhile, Zach can create his shots, which will take a load off Jamal Murray’s and Jokic’s shoulders. Although the Bulls are currently not interested in discussing Nnaji’s contract, the situation could change as we move closer to the trade deadline because they might lower their demands if they do not find more potential suitors for LaVine. So, there is still hope for the LaVine-Porter trade.