Now that everyone has processed the fact that Montrezl Harrell is returning to the Philadelphia 76ers next year, we do have a beacon of light that this team will actually make a meaningful move this summer. 

According to reports, the 76ers have had “preliminary conversations” with the Chicago Bulls about acquiring two-time All-Star Zach LaVine.

Zach LaVine to Philly…?

Per K.C. Johnson of NBC Sports Chicago, the Philadelphia 76ers and Portland Trail Blazers have “preliminary conversations” with the Bulls about the two-time All-Star. 

Johnson noted that while neither of those talks gained traction “for now,” Chicago has “fluctuated in its belief in LaVine’s consistency as a lead option” and those questions “only intensified” after his erratic performances in the two play-in tournament games.

“After almost single-handedly willing the Bulls to a victory in Toronto with 39 points,” Johnson wrote, “LaVine shot 6-for-21 with five turnovers in the season-ending loss to the Miami Heat.” via Bleacher Report

Preliminary discussions don’t seem like much of anything and it’s somewhat ridiculous to even get excited at the thought of the Sixers’ front office actually doing something to improve this roster given their roster moves since the start of free agency. 

However, Zach LaVine in Philly would be refreshing. 

LaVine will make $129.1 million over the next three years before his $48.97 million player option for the 2026-27 season. 

As we all know, James Harden did pick up his player option to return to Philadelphia next season with a $35.6 million price tag. It was initially reported that the Sixers would look to trade Harden but to date, it doesn’t seem like they have been able to secure any type of trade partner. 

Recent reports now indicate that it’s “very likely” Harden does return to the Sixers next season. On top of that, there were reports earlier in the week that the Sixers had “no intention” in trading Tobias Harris and that Tyrese Maxey was “untouchable”. 

So really, if you think about it, the Sixers haven’t really done much of anything this offseason besides signing two back up centers in Montrezl Harrell and Mo Bamba along with veteran guard Patrick Beverley. 

That is why I’m not getting excited over “preliminary talks” with the Chicago Bulls and Sixers trading for Zach LaVine. 

Zero faith. Endless pain. This is the way of Daryl Morey and the Philadelphia 76ers front office. 

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