The Chicago Bulls are at the center of trade discussions as the deadline approaches, marking a shift after spending the last three deadlines on the sidelines. Zach LaVine has been mentioned in trade rumors for over a year, and many anticipate that the Bulls will part ways with him along with key veteran Nikola Vucevic. The main question now is what the Bulls can expect to receive in return for their players in any potential trades.
15. Patrick Williams
Market Value: Will cost draft capital to trade.
Analysis: Combining Williams' inconsistent play with his new $90 million contract makes for a player undesirable to most teams. The Bulls are better off finding a suitable role for Williams, whether that’s coming off the bench or with the starters.
14.-11. Jevon Carter, Dalen Terry, Chris Duarte, and Talen Horton-Tucker
Market Value: Nothing
Analysis: These players can be used in trades to help match salaries and fill roster spots but lack any market value.
10.-6. Josh Giddey, Torrey Craig, Jalen Smith, Julian Philips, and Lonzo Ball
Market Value: Two to three second-round picks.
Analysis: These are the players who have some trade value based on their specific roles, even though they may not be in high demand.
5. Nikola Vucevic
Market Value: One protected first-round pick.
Analysis: Vucevic’s resurgence may attract teams looking for an additional offensive burst in the interior.
4. Zach LaVine
Market Value: Role players and one protected first-round pick.
Analysis: The LaVine trade saga has to come to an end, but teams need to be prepared to sacrifice prominent role players to accommodate for LaVine’s lucrative contract. The caliber of role players traded will significantly influence the draft capital the Bulls acquire.
3. Matas Buzelis
Market Value: Draft capital.
Analysis: Buzelis's sporadic minutes might have hindered some of the potential teams that look for when trading for a young player.
2. Coby White
Market Value: Two first-round picks.
Analysis: In today’s NBA climate, White’s self-creation ability is highly sought after. With his contract accounting for less than 10% of the salary cap, White is the ideal cost-effective player contending teams pursue.
1. Ayo Dosunmu
Market Value: Role player and two first-round picks.
Analysis: Dosunmu has proven to be a well-rounded guard who scores at will and takes on tough defensive assignments. With his contract extending until the end of next season, which accounts for less than 5% of the salary cap, he’s an exceptional value option for contenders looking to make moves around the CBA constraints.
