Portland Trail Blazers Lead Race to Acquire NBA Star Zach LaVine This Summer

The Portland Trail Blazers are reportedly among the frontrunners to sign NBA star Zach LaVine this summer, competing closely with the New Orleans Pelicans for the veteran guard's services. According to the forecasting agency Polymarket, both Portland and New Orleans hold a 45% chance each of landing LaVine, far ahead of other contenders like Miami and Utah, which stand at just 5% each.

Portland, which returned to the playoffs last season for the first time since 2020/21, aims to advance beyond the first round for the first time since 2018/19. The team has already made a significant move by acquiring Ja Morant from Memphis and is now looking to further strengthen its roster with LaVine.

LaVine recently exercised his player option for the 2026/27 season, worth $49 million, but his future with the Sacramento Kings remains uncertain as the team seeks a trade. The potential acquisition of LaVine by Portland would likely require a complex trade involving players such as Jrue Holiday and additional assets due to salary cap considerations.

Fan pages and reports highlight the logistical and financial challenges of such a move, but the sudden rise in LaVine's trade odds suggests active negotiations. If completed, LaVine would join forces with Danny Avdija in Portland for the upcoming season, although the deal is not yet finalized.