Warriors Rumors: Zach LaVine Trade Viewed as 'Safer Option' Than Jimmy Butler By Some

As the Golden State Warriors prepare for the upcoming trade deadline, there are a handful of players that they might target.

The big name is Miami Heat's disgruntled star Jimmy Butler, but according to The Athletic's Anthony Slater and Marcus Thompson, a trade for Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine is considered to be the "safer option" by some people in the organization.

"LaVine is viewed by some within the organization as the safer option," Slater and Thompson wrote. "At 29, he's five and a half years younger and some $6 million cheaper than Butler this season, though his contract extends longer and he's had some recent health concerns. There are risks all over the board."

LaVine is putting up good numbers in Chicago, averaging 24 points, 4.8 rebounds and 4.5 assists per game. The Warriors lack a second scoring option behind Stephen Curry since Klay Thompson's exit last summer, and LaVine could fill that need.

Of course, his health is a concern as he played just 25 games last season because of a foot injury.

LaVine is under contract through the 2026-27 season and will earn $48.967 next year. Butler, on the other hand, has a player option for next season and would get $52.413 million if he opted into it. LaVine is a slightly cheaper option and the Warriors wouldn't have to worry about him leaving in free agency after just half a season.

As Slater and Thompson mentioned, age is a factor as well. Butler is 35 whereas LaVine is 29, meaning LaVine would likely be more of a long-term option if he were to fit in well in Golden State.

Butler is having his worst statistical season since his third year in the league in 2013-14. He's putting up 17 points, 5.2 rebounds and 4.8 assists per game, though he has played just five games this month due to suspensions that followed his trade request.

A positive for Butler, the Warriors could potentially trade for him without having to give up too much compared to what they would need to land LaVine. Butler's trade demands mean the Heat have little choice but deal him before the deadline, even if it means getting less in return than they want.

LaVine, on the other hand, is the cornerstone of the Bulls' organization and there has been little that indicates he wants to be traded. That means Golden State would likely have to make Chicago an enticing package. Not to mention, the Bulls are rarely active at the trade deadline, with their last deadline move coming in 2021.

Whoever the Warriors opt to trade for, if anyone, would likely put them in a better place to compete for a championship this season, but Golden State will need to evaluate what the best option is beyond just this year.