With the way the Chicago Bulls roster is currently structured, it seems like the Larry O’Brien trophy won’t be making its way to United Center anytime soon. Their core is solid, but barring major changes, it will only be good enough to push for the playoffs. Nothing more.
However, Arturas Karnisovas is determined to make things work with the current core. And while it’s a respectable position considering the Bulls were a rebuilding team just a few years ago, the current team has no future. Chicago might be better off shaking things up, and a trade proposed by Greg Swartz of Bleacher Report would see them do that.
Swartz suggested a trade that would send DeMar DeRozan to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for D’Angelo Russell and a myriad of other assets.
Chicago Bulls mock trade: DeMar DeRozan to the Lakers
Here’s the full outline of the proposed trade:
Bulls receive: D’Angelo Russell, Mo Bamba, Max Christie, 2029 first-round pick
Lakers receive: DeMar DeRozan
Bulls mock trades DeMar DeRozan to Lakers: Bulls perspective
Swartz believes adding Russell would help the Bulls replace Lonzo Ball’s production, and the other assets would improve their future outlook.
“Point guard is still an issue with Lonzo Ball projected to miss most, if not all, of next season following a third knee surgery,” Swartz wrote. “After a disappointing playoff showing, Chicago should be able to acquire Russell as a reasonable contract number to be their new starting floor general. While he’s not a true pass-first guard, the combination of Russell, Zach LaVine and Alex Caruso should be enough ball-handlers to navigate through a season.
“Bamba gives the team insurance in the frontcourt if Nikoka Vucevic leaves in free agency, and Christie shot 41.9 percent from three as a rookie and doesn’t turn 21 until February. Getting the Lakers’ unprotected first-round pick in 2029 could prove to be a valuable selection or future trade asset as well.”
Bulls mock trades DeMar DeRozan to Lakers: Lakers perspective
Meanwhile, Swartz thinks this deal would help propel the Lakers back into title contention.
“DeRozan gives the Lakers a third All-Star to pair with LeBron James and Anthony Davis, putting Los Angeles back into true championship contention,” Swartz wrote.
Bulls mock trades DeMar DeRozan to Lakers: Should Bulls do this?
If this trade came across the Bulls’ desk, they should absolutely pull the trigger. Russell would slot in as the new starting point guard, Bamba would give them solid center depth, Christie is a nice young prospect, and considering LeBron James’ age, that 2029 first could be very valuable.
