Los Angeles Lakers Receive: G/F DeMar DeRozan, C Nikola Vucevic

Chicago Bulls Receive: F/C Anthony Davis, F Talen Horton-Tucker, 2027 First-Round Pick (LAL)

DeMar DeRozan had a surprising career year in 2021-22. Long written off as a high-volume, low-efficiency gunner, he garnered MVP consideration with a late-career surge.

Why would the Bulls trade him for the seemingly worn-down Anthony Davis?

It comes down to floor balance. This Bulls team needs defense in a bad way. Davis provides it. If he can return to his former level of play, he’ll be the best player in this deal anyway. Meanwhile, DeRozan’s skillset is comparatively redundant to LaVine’s. If the Bulls retain him in free agency, pairing him with Davis could give them a higher ceiling.

Unlike the other deals listed here, this deal doesn’t afford the Lakers much flexibility with Westbrook. DeRozan has improved in terms of three-point shooting, but he’s still not the type of floor-spacer that’s suited to play alongside the poor shooting point guard.

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So what. The Lakers can buy Westbrook out if necessary. They have a desperate need to upgrade in whatever capacity they can. If the Bulls were to put this offer on the table, they should accept it without reservation and ask questions later.