Would this be a good move for the Chicago Bulls?
After an exciting end to the regular season and a disappointing exit from the Play-In tournament, the Chicago Bulls are now considering what moves they should make. Should they stick to the status quo and risk staying in the NBA’s purgatory—where they’re good enough to contend for a low Playoff seed but not for an NBA title—or reshape the roster to give them a real shot at glory?
Choosing the latter would mean making tough decisions, such as trading franchise leader DeMar DeRozan for someone who could give the team a higher ceiling. One potential option could be the Phoenix Suns’ big man DeAndre Ayton.
Phoenix to part ways with Ayton
Not long after the Phoenix Suns got humiliated by the Denver Nuggets in Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals, a report came out that the Suns would “aggressively explore” trading away former first pick Deandre Ayton. Although the former Arizona star had another solid season with averages of 18 points and 10 rebounds per game in 67 regular season games, it appears the 7-footer is already looking forward to a fresh start with another team.
Could that team be the Bulls?
According to a report by Sean Deveney, the Bulls may be “open to reshaping” the roster, installing Zach LaVine as the clear-cut first option. However, that would mean trading away DeRozan, who has been a two-time All-Star in his two seasons in the Windy City. However, with the Compton native signed for only one more season, DeRozan could be an attractive trade piece to get the ball rolling.
Although nothing is set in stone, especially with the NBA Draft Lottery coming up, it will be interesting to see how the Bulls move forward. With LaVine already in place and a chance to add another top-tier talent, DeRozan could potentially be on his way out if the Bulls decide to make a change this offseason.
