The Chicago Bulls find themselves in a precarious position as the February trade deadline approaches, with a record of 7-14 and a growing focus on trading star player Zach LaVine, according to NBC Sports Chicago’s K.C. Johnson. The need to maximize the return in any potential trade has become a priority. Bleacher Report’s Dan Favale suggests a “realistic” trade scenario that could benefit the Bulls significantly.
Favale proposes a trade where the Bulls would receive Precious Achiuwa, Chris Boucher, Gradey Dick, Gary Trent Jr., a 2026 first-round pick, and a 2028 first-round pick. In return, the Toronto Raptors would acquire Zach LaVine and Terry Taylor. This trade package includes two former first-round picks in Achiuwa and Dick, providing the Bulls with young talent and potential for development.
Precious Achiuwa, drafted by the Miami Heat in 2020, has shown promise, averaging 7.3 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.0 assists in limited minutes this season. Gradey Dick, the 13th overall pick in the 2023 draft, is a college sharpshooter with potential for growth, despite a slower start to his rookie season.
Chris Boucher, a two-time NBA champion, brings championship experience and efficient three-point shooting to the table. Although his role has diminished this season, Boucher’s ability to contribute efficiently from beyond the arc could be valuable for the Bulls.
👌 @gradey_dick 👌 pic.twitter.com/thvAjYTont
— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) November 14, 2023
Gary Trent Jr., acquired by the Raptors in the offseason, provides scoring with an average of 11.0 points per game and a respectable three-point shooting percentage of 36.4%. The trade package also includes two future first-round picks, enhancing the Bulls’ asset pool.
Favale argues that this proposed trade not only addresses the Bulls’ desire for a substantial return in a LaVine trade but also protects them from a complete roster teardown. The inclusion of Boucher and Trent could provide the Bulls with additional time to develop their other veteran players.
However, there are logistical challenges to the proposed trade, with considerations for roster spots and potential moves to stay under the luxury tax. Additionally, Terry Taylor cannot be traded until December 15 due to his offseason re-signing.
"There is not a market for Zach LaVine right now."@wojespn with the latest on LaVine and the Bulls 👀 pic.twitter.com/r4stqcKkor
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) December 1, 2023
Despite the Bulls’ reported interest in trading LaVine, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski suggests there is currently no market for the two-time All-Star, citing concerns about his long-term health and contributions to a winning team. In this context, Favale’s proposed trade could offer an attractive package for the Bulls, balancing young talent, future draft picks, and established contributors.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Bulls face a critical decision on LaVine’s future, and Favale’s suggested trade could be a compelling option for Chicago to consider in their pursuit of a favorable return.
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