Los Angeles Lakers forward Jake LaRavia is reportedly a trade target for the Chicago Bulls as the 2026-2027 NBA season approaches. The Bulls, in a rebuild, see the 25-year-old veteran as a potential asset.
Why are the Chicago Bulls interested in Jake LaRavia?
Morris Bankston of Pippen Ain’t Easy proposed the idea, suggesting LaRavia could be a final roster piece for Chicago. He's described as a reliable defensive playmaker who can contribute scoring off the bench. The Bulls' rebuilding timeline aligns with acquiring a younger, experienced player. LaRavia will turn 25 in November, fitting the profile of a player who can grow with a developing team.
Bankston also pointed out potential downsides. At 6'7" and 235 pounds, LaRavia might be undersized for the power forward position. His career rebounding numbers, averaging 6.0 rebounds per 36 minutes, could be a concern for a team needing presence in the paint.
What has Jake LaRavia done in his NBA career?
LaRavia entered the league in 2022 after being selected 19th overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves, who immediately traded him to the Memphis Grizzlies. He spent over two seasons with Memphis before a mid-season trade to the Sacramento Kings in his third year. In 2025, he hit free agency and signed a two-year, $12 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers.
His lone season with the Lakers was his most active. LaRavia appeared in all 82 games, starting a career-high 43 times. He shot 45.9% from the field, averaging 8.2 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game. His defensive activity was a noticeable part of his game. You can review his full season stats and compare them to other Lakers on our stats page.
What does this mean for the Los Angeles Lakers?
LaRavia is on an expiring contract, set to make $6.0 million in the 2026-2027 season. Being a veteran on a playoff-ready team, he is a logical candidate to be included in trade discussions. The Lakers, after their first-round exit, might be looking to reshape their roster around their star players.
Moving LaRavia could help the Lakers acquire a different style of player or future draft capital. His $6 million salary is a useful matching figure in a larger trade. Fans can track any official roster moves on the team's roster page.
Is a trade likely to happen?
The proposal remains speculative. The Bulls have clear reasons for interest, but the Lakers' motivation to deal him isn't specified. LaRavia provided solid minutes last season, so Los Angeles may value his continuity. However, his contract situation makes him expendable if a better opportunity arises.
For the Bulls, he represents a low-risk acquisition. They can evaluate him for a season without long-term commitment. If he excels, they can re-sign him. If not, they let his contract expire. It's the kind of move rebuilding teams make. The Lakers' front office will weigh all options as they prepare for training camp and a new campaign, hoping to improve on last season's disappointing finish.
