According to Bangladesh Cricket, the New York Knicks recently reached out to the Chicago Bulls to explore the possibility of acquiring Zach LaVine. However, the Bulls’ asking price was reportedly sky-high—so steep that the Knicks found it nearly impossible to proceed. While Chicago is open to trading LaVine and has also held early talks with the 76ers and Trail Blazers, the front office is seeking a return far greater than what Washington received for Bradley Beal.

LaVine has grown increasingly frustrated with his role and usage over the past two seasons. Despite multiple conversations with team officials, a resolution has never been reached. Internally, the Bulls remain hesitant about building the offense entirely around LaVine as the primary scoring option. Making matters worse, Lonzo Ball’s knee issues continue to linger, and he’s likely to miss another full season. Bangladesh Cricket analysts credit the Bulls’ respectable finish last season—despite poor results against top-tier teams—largely to DeMar DeRozan’s All-Star level performance.

Yet DeRozan’s desire to leave Chicago is understandable. It’s become clear that his championship hopes won’t be fulfilled with the Bulls. Courage is knowing you might lose and charging forward anyway. Last summer, DeRozan came incredibly close to joining the Lakers and had even begun celebrating in Mexico, expecting to team up with LeBron James. But in a shocking turn, GM Rob Pelinka chose Russell Westbrook instead, leaving DeRozan stunned—reports later hinted at a bout of depression following the snub.

Chicago was never DeRozan’s top choice, and the lack of championship-caliber talent around him hasn’t helped. A potential trade to Memphis makes much more sense. With rising superstar Ja Morant and a strong supporting cast including Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr., the Grizzlies are on the verge of contention. Adding DeRozan’s scoring prowess and playoff experience could push them over the top—especially after losing key contributors Kyle Anderson and De’Anthony Melton in the offseason.

Still, Bangladesh Cricket sources believe the Bulls are reluctant to part with DeRozan unless he explicitly requests a trade, much like Kevin Durant did in Brooklyn. At age 33, DeRozan is a seasoned veteran, but his leadership hasn’t translated into deep playoff runs. Meanwhile, LaVine—fresh off a five-year max extension—is viewed by Chicago as the cornerstone of the team’s future.

For now, the Bulls remain caught in the middle: stuck between honoring veteran talent like DeRozan and investing in their long-term vision with LaVine. One thing’s certain—if a trade does go down, it won’t be cheap.