One of NBA's top trade candidates is off board after foot surgery

LaVine has been inactive since Jan. 18. but the team hoped he'd return to the hardwood before the deadline. Yet, those expectations took a massive hit last week when head coach Billy Donovan said bluntly, "I just don't know," after being questioned about the former first-round pick's status. 

The 28-year-old had been the subject of trade rumors before Saturday's announcement. Reports linked him to several potential suitors, including the team with the NBA's worst record, the Detroit Pistons. Whether the trade market played a role in LaVine's decision to undergo surgery is unclear.

LaVine has had issues staying healthy throughout this season, missing nearly half the season with the foot ailment. He missed a 17-game stretch through January before returning briefly for seven games, only to sit out again after rolling the same ankle. 

In the 25 games he did play, LaVine averaged 19.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.9 assists for the 23-26 Bulls, who continue to tread water in ninth place in the Eastern Conference standings. 

The news leaves the Bulls without one of their marquee trade chip coming up on the deadline. They'll be unable to turn LaVine into bolstered long-term assets. However, Alex Caruso could still net the franchise valuable draft equity.