NBA Trade Deadline Day Early Predictions 2024: 5 bold moves Chicago Bulls could make
After a 5-14 start, the Chicago Bulls have started to play much better. They have been 13-8 since then and are getting healthier with the returns of Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic. The Bulls hold an 18-22 record, which puts them in the ninth spot in the Eastern Conference.
The Bulls made the Play-In Tournament when they finished with a 40-42 record last season. Most NBA observers believe that if they don’t make changes before next month’s trade deadline, they’re headed that way again.
Chicago is currently four games behind the Orlando Magic (21-17). The Brooklyn Nets (16-22), Atlanta Hawks (15-22) and Toronto Raptors (15-24) are within striking distance of the Bulls and could even overtake them if they can go on a winning-run.
With Feb. 8 drawing near, the Chicago Bulls might pull the trigger on a couple of trades.
Trade scenarios the Chicago Bulls could pull before trade deadline
#5. DeMar DeRozan to Detroit Pistons
The reeling Detroit Pistons are reportedly looking for a veteran who can create shots and help lead the team. DeMar DeRozan could be the answer to that problem. The Chicago Bulls could ask for Killian Hayes, Joe Harris and a first-round pick.
DeRozan would help Cade Cunningham. The only drawback is if “Deebo” doesn’t want to re-sign for a rebuilding team. If the Pistons are looking for some immediate help, the six-time All-Star fits the bill.
#4. DeMar DeRozan to Miami Heat
DeRozan is in the final of a three-year $85 million contract he signed in 2021. He would be an ideal third option in a contending team.
The Bulls could send him to the Miami Heat for Duncan Robinson, Caleb Martin and a 2024 first-round pick. Robinson has been playing well this season and will add more spacing to a team that is 20th in the NBA in 3-point percentage. Martin will add wing depth while the draft asset will be a big plus to Chicago’s future.
DeRozan would certainly bolster a team that reached last year’s NBA Finals.