Zach LaVine Trade: Big Reason Knicks Aren't in Play for Bulls All-Star Guard

(Photo : Michael Reaves/Getty Images) Zach LaVine (#8) of the Chicago Bulls dunks against the Phoenix Suns during the second half at the United Center on November 08, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois.

The New York Knicks are a team that would be in play each time a big-name player is mentioned as being on the trade block. However, they have little to no interest in one of the top names on the trade block this season - Zach LaVine of the Chicago Bulls.

"New York hasn't expressed serious interest in the All-Stars on the Chicago Bulls," according to Fred Katz of The Athletic.

Such may be puzzling, considering the Knicks have been mentioned as one of the suitors each time a top player is reportedly up for grabs.

They were one of the potential stops for Damian Lillard before the Milwaukee Bucks deal got sealed. New York has also been linked to Zion Williamson, a former top pick being criticized for his subpar performance with the New Orleans Pelicans this season, per Marc Berman of the New York Post.

Given those links, why would the Knicks not be in play for Zach LaVine?

Knicks are not impressed with LaVine's defensive efforts

According to Katz, one aspect of LaVine's game that the Knicks do not like is his defense. Assuming they pursue and can get the two-time All-Star, there are concerns about how he would fit in defensively under coach Tom Thibodeau's system.

Zach LaVine has a defensive rating of 117.5 per Statmuse.

Knicks, Bulls not talking about trade at all

Further, the Knicks have allegedly not had talks with the Bulls on a deal involving LaVine or even DeMar DeRozan, per Ian Begley of SNY. The Bulls are not exactly humming right now, and rumors are swirling that Chicago may sell off some of their pieces, led by LaVine and DeRozan via Bleacher Report.

Also, it is worth noting that LaVine is dealing with a foot injury. Whether it be the Knicks or any other team, this is expected to play a major factor in getting any deal done.

"Teams will evaluate the opportunity to get Zach LaVine. He is out again with foot issues right now. That never helps. Particularly for a player with some injury history. That is not going to drive his market up. That's gonna probably drive it down a bit," veteran journalist Roland Lazenby opined when he spoke to Sports Bytes Philippines.