Bulls reportedly discussing Kings’ trade offer for duo this summer

The Chicago Bulls have entered into trade talks regarding two of their most productive guards, according to a report released Tuesday.

Matt Moore, senior NBA writer for Action Network, reported that the Sacramento Kings called the Bulls about Zach LaVine and Alex Caruso. The Kings are sending Harrison Barnes, Kevin Huerter and draft picks to Chicago amid discussions.

Moore wrote that “the Sacramento Kings are going back to the well with the same trade package they offered Toronto twice for OG Anunoby and Pascal Siakam.” The offer includes Harrison Barnes, Kevin Huerter and draft compensation. We know they had calls with Chicago involving Zach LaVine and Alex Caruso.

Additionally, Moore reported that the Kings are particularly interested in LaVine since Sacramento could lose Malik Monk in free agency. Moore revealed that “the Kings would love to keep Malik Monk… but, realistically, they won’t be able to match offers from teams like Detroit, Charlotte and Orlando… (that’s) what makes LaVine more attractive for them at a discounted price after its market value hits its lowest level on the deadline.

The most interesting variable for Chicago in the discussions with Sacramento is Caruso, a key piece of the Bulls’ defense that the Bulls apparently wouldn’t trade for a top-10 pick just a few months ago.

With Caruso eligible for an extension this summer, the pressure is on Chicago to make a decision, and that pressure will only intensify as the weeks progress and Caruso’s most high-profile suitors come knocking.

Removing LaVine’s salary in a deal with Sacramento would be a win for Chicago, but giving up Caruso in the same deal in exchange for a package of Barnes, Huerter and picks would signal that the Bulls are embarking on a rebuild .

The best scenario for Chicago would be to trade LaVine (for decent value) while retaining and extending Caruso.

However, it remains to be seen if the Kings are interested in trading just for LaVine.

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