Top 5 Landing Spots for Zach LaVine as Kings GM ‘Desperately’ Explores Trade for 2x All-Star Following His Recent Efficiency Slide

Zach LaVine might be heading on a new journey after the latest reports revealed that the Kings are interested in shipping him away. On Friday, "Dallas Hoops Journal" revealed that Kings' general manager Scott Perry is desperate to trade the two-time All-Star.

LaVine has been consistent for the Kings this season. He is averaging 20.1 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game on 49.0% shooting. However, the two-time All-Star has struggled in his last few games. He shot 35.7% in a 112-100 loss against the Suns on Wednesday and 30.0% in a 117-112 overtime win over the Timberwolves on Tuesday.

"LaVine’s lack of effort and focus on defense has frustrated Perry and head coach Doug Christie," Ashish Mathur of Dallas Hoops Journal wrote.

The Kings (5-14) are in 13th place in the Western Conference standings, and trading away LaVine is a viable option to get some assets and build for the future. Keeping the recent revelations in perspective, here are the top five landing spots for Zach LaVine, if the Kings trade him before the deadline.

Top 5 Landing Spots for Zach LaVine

1. Milwaukee Bucks

The Milwaukee Bucks are the most favourable choice for a Zach LaVine trade. According to Michael Scotto, the Bucks have been pondering the possibility of pairing the two-time All-Star with Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Having LaVine on the roster would take pressure off the Greek Freak's shoulders. The Kings guard is a great shooter, and he is one of the few players who can capitalize on the open looks Antetokounmpo creates from his play style.

2. Orlando Magic

The Orlando Magic have been looking for another star in their backcourt. They have their frontcourt figured out with the combination of Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero. However, the backcourt needs some improvement, and having a shooter play alongside Desmond Bane could be the piece they have been missing.

3. New Orleans Pelicans

The Pelicans are another team that could be in the race to acquire Zach LaVine. The Pels have been very patient with the roster. However, Zion Williamson is still picking up injuries even after shedding a significant amount of weight.

Additionally, Dejounte Murray has been out for an extended period due to an ankle injury. According to Shams Charania, he is not expected to be back before New Year's. So, having a scorer who can help a physical player like Zion Williamson, who attracts a lot of attention, from the perimeter might not be the worst idea.

4. Phoenix Suns

The Suns could trade for LaVine to bolster their roster depth. It would be a good addition to the backcourt, given that Devin Booker has been carrying the team for some time now. The Kings guard's scoring prowess could help the Suns, who are missing a bit of firepower since the departure of Kevin Durant.

5. Golden State Warriors

The Warriors are another team that could pursue Zach LaVine before the trade deadline. The two-time All-Star would be great in the squad, given that he is ready to play a secondary role.

With recent struggles of Brandin Poziemski, the Dubs could look towards LaVine to get the most out of their backcourt.