A $40 million potential Lakers trade could include a two-time all-star as a swap for a point guard.

With a $40 million salary that accounts for 29.45% of the cap, Zach LaVine may be traded by the Lakers.

According to the most recent Los Angeles Lakers rumors, Zach LaVine of the Chicago Bulls could be available for trade. According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, there is “increased openness” between the Bulls and LaVine regarding a possible trade.

Given that the star would be yet another client of Klutch Sports, LaVine has been mentioned as a player in relation to the Lakers for some time. Andy Bailey of Bleacher Report assembled a possible Lakers trade package that would send LaVine to Hollywood.

Potential Lakers Trade Target $40 Million Salary Is 29.45% of the Cap

While it is fun to feature LaVine photoshopped in a Lakers jersey, let’s examine the potential merits of a deal. LaVine is on a massive five-year, $215 million contract that has the potential to run through the 2026-27 season. The two-time All-Star has a player option for this final season and if exercised would earn a $48.9 million salary in 2026-27.

This deal likely runs beyond LeBron James’ window in Los Angeles and potentially even Anthony Davis. LaVine has a $40 million salary this season which accounts for 29.45% of the cap.

For the Lakers to mortgage their financial futures for LaVine, there would need to be a belief in the front office that the star is a missing piece for the Lakers getting another NBA title. LaVine averaged 24.8 points, 4.5 rebounds and 4.2 assists while shooting 37.5% from long range during 77 starts in 2022-23.