Long break could work wonders for Sixers

Rich Paul pushed back on the narrative that he’s trying to get Zach LaVine to the Los Angeles Lakers as a trade from the Chicago Bulls appears inevitable. Paul represents four players on the Lakers, including LeBron James, and there’s an ongoing narrative that Klutch Sports prioritizes the franchise and has an outsized influence.

“It’s not one team,” Paul told Sam Amick of The Athletic. “I don’t have a specific destination for Zach. I want what’s best for Zach and his family. When you have a guy playing the game, you want him to be able to play the game happy, whether that’s in Chicago or somewhere else.”

LaVine hasn’t played since Nov. 28 because of inflammation in his right foot and is expected to miss several more weeks.

“In the event the Bulls decide they would like to go a different direction with the team, and it involves Zach, then I’m sure we’ll have conversations to get clarity on what’s best for both sides,” Paul said. “Until then, the goal is to get healthy and return ready to go.”

Beyond the Lakers, the Philadelphia 76ers and Sacramento Kings have been mentioned as possible teams for LaVine.