The recent buzz in the NBA rumor mill suggests that Chicago Bulls’ All-Star forward, DeMar DeRozan, has a preference for a trade to either the Miami Heat or the New York Knicks if he becomes available on the market. With the Bulls facing another disappointing season, there’s speculation that they might initiate a fire sale to kickstart a rebuilding phase.

While the trade discussions have predominantly centered around All-Star guard Zach LaVine and the coveted Alex Caruso, the focus could shift to DeRozan, considering his contract situation. DeRozan’s current deal is set to expire in the summer, making him a potential asset for teams before he enters free agency.

For the Miami Heat, still in search of a missing piece to elevate their game after experiencing Finals losses and Eastern Conference Finals eliminations in recent seasons, DeRozan appears to be an ideal fit. Given this scenario, let’s explore a proposed trade offer that the Heat could present to the Chicago Bulls to secure DeMar DeRozan.

Proposed Trade:

• Miami Heat Receive: DeMar DeRozan
• Chicago Bulls Receive: Kyle Lowry and a 2025 1st-round pick

This proposed trade is straightforward, benefitting both teams. In this scenario, DeRozan would not reunite with his former Toronto Raptors teammate, Kyle Lowry. Instead, Lowry would serve as the primary salary piece sent by the Miami Heat, accompanied by their 2025 1st-round pick—a valuable asset for the Bulls.

Acquiring a 1st-round pick, likely falling in the 20s, for DeRozan’s expiring contract would be advantageous for the Bulls as they embark on a rebuilding phase. Notably, Lowry’s $29.6 million deal expires after the current season, ensuring that the Bulls don’t take on additional salary in the trade.

While the Bulls could potentially ask for promising young talent Tyler Herro, committing to his four-year, $120 million contract might not align with their rebuilding strategy. The Heat, on the other hand, value Herro as an integral part of their current and future plans.

The rumored interest in DeRozan by an NBA executive underscores the belief that he could be the perfect fit for the Miami Heat. A potential core featuring Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo, Tyler Herro, and DeMar DeRozan could provide the Heat with the firepower needed to pursue their first title since the LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh era.

Despite being 34 years old, DeRozan remains a highly productive player, excelling in scoring and playmaking. His expiring deal could also offer the Heat flexibility in re-signing him at a potentially more favorable cost next summer. Additionally, there’s the possibility of reuniting DeRozan and Lowry in Miami during the offseason, adding another layer to the Heat’s pursuit of success.

While no concrete trade deal seems imminent, the prospect of acquiring DeMar DeRozan should undoubtedly be a consideration for the Miami Heat as they strategize for the future.