Realistic Trade Scenarios to Move Zach LaVine and the NBA’s Most Overpaid Players

The NBA landscape is littered with massive contracts, but the biggest ones don’t always come with the biggest stars. The hope is that players will live up to the high expectations their contracts create, but things don’t always go as planned.

Whether it’s due to injuries, declining performance or a team desperate to avoid losing a player for nothing, some of the worst contracts in the league prove to be financial burdens on their teams.

Bradley Beal (3 years, $161 million)

Trade proposal:

•San Antonio Spurs receive: Bradley Beal, 2026 second-round pick (via DEN), and two 2031 second-round picks (via DEN and PHO)
•Phoenix Suns receive: Harrison Barnes, Keldon Johnson and Julian Champagnie
Bradley Beal’s contract is widely considered one of the worst in the league, especially given his declining production and the presence of a no-trade clause. The cash-strapped Phoenix Suns, above the second-tier salary cap, would likely jump at the chance to move Beal’s contract.

In this hypothetical deal, the Spurs would be taking a calculated risk by acquiring Beal. While his recent performances don’t justify his massive salary, the Spurs may see him as a valuable addition to their roster, especially with the potential to mentor and complement Victor Wembanyama. Meanwhile, the Suns would receive a package centered around Keldon Johnson, a promising young scorer, along with a solid veteran presence in Harrison Barnes and a developing player in Julian Champagnie. This deal would allow the Suns to retool their roster while also shedding one of the worst contracts in the NBA.

Jerami Grant (4 years, $132.4 million)

Trade proposal:
•Los Angeles Lakers receive: Jerami Grant
•Portland Trail Blazers receive: D’Angelo Russell, Jarred Vanderbilt, Maxwell Lewis and a 2029 first-round pick

Jerami Grant’s contract, while onerous, could make more sense in a different context, such as the Los Angeles Lakers. The Lakers, with an aging LeBron James still playing at an MVP level, should take advantage of their championship window. Grant, known for his defensive versatility and improved three-point shooting, could be an ideal third or fourth option behind LeBron and Anthony Davis.

In return, the Portland Trail Blazers would receive D’Angelo Russell’s expiring contract, which they could either trade for more assets or let expire to create cap space. Jarred Vanderbilt offers the Blazers a young, defensive-minded forward who fits their rebuilding timeline, while the addition of a future first-round pick sweetens the deal. The Blazers could also consider developing Maxwell Lewis, adding another piece to their long-term plans.

Zach LaVine (3 years, $138 million)

Trade proposal:
•Denver Nuggets receive: Zach LaVine and a 2029 first-round pick trade (top three protected)
•Chicago Bulls receive: Michael Porter Jr. and Zeke Nnaji

Zach LaVine is an offensive powerhouse when healthy, but his contract and injury history make him a tough asset to move. The Denver Nuggets, who lost key veterans following their 2023 championship run, may see LaVine as the scoring force they need to stay in contention. Pairing LaVine with Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray could create an unstoppable offensive trio that would ease the scoring burden on Jokic.

For the Chicago Bulls, this trade is a way to reset. Michael Porter Jr.’s contract is also significant, but he’s younger and has the potential to thrive in a less defined offensive system. Zeke Nnaji, while unproven, could develop into a rotation piece. The first-round pick swap adds value for Chicago, giving them a potential asset if Denver’s performance declines in the future.

Jordan Poole (3 years, $95.5 million)

Trade proposal:
•Los Angeles Clippers receive: Jordan Poole

Jordan Poole’s contract has become a significant burden for the Washington Wizards, especially after a disastrous season. The Los Angeles Clippers, still searching for the right mix of players to back up Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, could give Poole a chance, hoping he can regain the form that helped the Golden State Warriors win the 2022 championship.

For the Wizards, this deal is about financial flexibility. Norman Powell’s contract isn’t cheap, but it’s more manageable than Poole’s, and P.J. Tucker offers veteran leadership or a buyout option. This deal would give Washington a chance to reset without tying additional assets to Poole’s contract.