The future is murky for the Chicago Bulls heading into the 2023-24 season.
The team has underperformed, and it’s unclear how long Chicago will proceed with this core or if it even should. By some accounts, the team has one of the most confusing rosters in the Association. At the same time, there has been no shortage of Bulls trade rumors this offseason. Could a blockbuster move be on the horizon in the Windy City?
As the relationship between James Harden and the Philadelphia 76ers front office continues to deteriorate, Chicago has been identified as a possible team that can swoop in and swing a deal. According to the online sportsbook BetOnline.ag, the Bulls are plus-600 to land the disgruntled Harden — the second-best odds in the NBA. Only the Los Angeles Clippers (minus-250) are deemed a more likely destination for the former MVP.
The Clippers are reportedly Harden’s preferred destination, but Philadelphia seems intent on maximizing its return in a possible trade rather than prioritizing Harden’s desires.
Still, Harden has ties to Bulls veteran DeMar DeRozan, which could be a motivating factor if he chooses to put his thumb on the scale. Plus, Chicago has meaningful assets available for any big-ticket trade. This could be a chance for the Bulls to pounce.
“He captured my imagination and fuel my aspirations all at the same time.” Wade said of Jordan. https://t.co/kHtDIv0iZ8
— Bulls Wire (@Bulls_Wire) August 13, 2023
Zach LaVine-James Harden trade would be the likely route for Bulls
Chicago has its future to consider, which means deciding what to do with All-Star guard Zach LaVine. Multiple reports have suggested the Bulls have at least poked around this summer in considering a possible trade. Given Philadelphia’s expectations for any possible Harden trade package, it’s likely LaVine would have to be included in such a deal.
LaVine is set to begin Year 2 of a five-year, $215 million contract. Financially, a LaVine for Harden deal is pretty straightforward. Chicago could afford to take back Harden’s $35.6 million contract while still absorbing the additional $860k in salary necessary to complete the transaction.
Harden, DeRozan and Nikola Vucevic would become an interesting trio for the Bulls. Last season, Harden led the NBA in assists, and his playmaking would likely help Chicago find more solid footing in the Eastern Conference standings. LaVine, meanwhile, could help take some pressure off of Philadelphia’s Joel Embiid while also giving the Sixers a bit of athletic pop.
The Chicago Bulls haven’t had a ton of playoff success, but have they officially become underrated? https://t.co/dkn9qvEP1v
— Bulls Wire (@Bulls_Wire) August 11, 2023
Should the Bulls trade Zach LaVine for James Harden?
Even if this era has been underwhelming for Chicago — the team finished 40-42 last season — LaVine is a two-time All-Star with the Bulls. Parting ways with the star for a single year of Harden represents a risky move for the Bulls. If the team wants to move on from the former UCLA Bruin, there may be more intriguing trade packages available.
However, if Chicago lands Harden, the team would be in a position to clear its books almost entirely next summer. The Bulls could let Harden and DeRozan walk in free agency, opening huge chunks of cap space and paving the way for a real pivot for the organization.
The team would be left with limited assets but a chance to make a splash during the ’24 offseason, regardless.
Should the Chicago Bulls extend DeMar DeRozan, or should they let the current core come to an end? https://t.co/HMr9zaC3z6
— Bulls Wire (@Bulls_Wire) August 10, 2023
