Fansided

Kings swoop in, try to steal Zach LaVine from Bulls

By Jeremy Lambert

MEMPHIS, TN - MARCH 15: Zach LaVine #8 of the Chicago Bulls shoots a free throw during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on March 15, 2018 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)
MEMPHIS, TN - MARCH 15: Zach LaVine #8 of the Chicago Bulls shoots a free throw during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on March 15, 2018 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Zach LaVine accepts four-year deal from the Sacramento Kings, Chicago Bulls face a difficult decision to match.

The restricted free agent market is officially open for business. The Sacramento Kings fired the first shot on Friday night, sending an offer sheet to Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine.

LaVine appeared in 24 games for the Bulls last season, averaging 16.7 points, 3.9 rebounds, and three assists. He underwent reconstructive knee surgery in February 2017.

The Kings were armed with cap space this offseason, but were never a contender to land any of the top free agents. Failure to make the playoffs since 2006 doesn’t make for an attractive free agent destination. But going the restricted free agent route could land them a 23-year-old with plenty of upside. The Kings are loaded with young talent like De’Aaron Fox, Marvin Bagley III, Buddy Hield, and Harry Giles. LaVine would join the team as a young veteran.

Taking this contract for LaVine was a no brainer. A four-year deal gives him a lot of insurance following the ACL injury.

It seems like a no-brainer for the Bulls to match, but $80 million over four years is a hefty price for a guy they appear questionable about. Chicago is short on shooting guards, although Justin Holiday filled in nicely for LaVine during the 2017-18 season. If LaVine heads to Sacramento, Holiday will likely be their starting shooting guard. Since the Bulls are unlikely to compete for a playoff spot next season, they could always find their long term answer at the two in the 2019 Draft.

Next: The Kings will rise or fall with their young trio

The Bulls will have 48 hours to think about what they’re going to do. Invest in LaVine and hope he continues to improve, or let him go to Sacramento and hope he’s not the savior they’ve been searching for. Either way, Zach is getting paid.

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