The Chicago Bulls are quickly approaching a crossroads that will determine the path this franchise takes in the coming years. After spending a ton of assets over the last two years to upgrade the roster, the Bulls are currently outside of the NBA Play-In Tournament in the Eastern Conference, and some major changes could be on the horizon.
One of the players whose future is up in the air is DeMar DeRozan. DeRozan was acquired during the 2021 offseason from the San Antonio Spurs in a sign-and-trade deal. Since landing in the Windy City, DeRozan has been the team’s most consistent player. Alas, his time in Chicago could be coming to an end sooner than later.
According to Chris Haynes of Bleacher Report, a trade request could be coming from DeRozan should things not improve in the coming weeks and months.
“The Chicago Bulls are dealing with some dysfunction as it pertains to team chemistry and accountability while stationed 11th in the Eastern Conference standings (13-18). If matters don’t improve this season, rivals executives believe it could lead star guard DeMar DeRozan to request to be moved in the offseason, league sources tell Bleacher Report.”
DeRozan reportedly has growing tension with Zach LaVine on the court as their skill sets sometimes overlap. While they have respect for each other and there isn’t any animosity toward the other, the chemistry just isn’t there on the court as multiple player meetings have been held but no progress has been made.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: DeMar DeRozan & Chicago Bulls Updates
If the Bulls get an offer with multiple first-round picks, which is something the Los Angeles Lakers will reportedly consider if they can land DeRozan and Nikola Vucevic, they won’t wait until the offseason for a formal request from DeRozan. They will trade him out west without hesitation if the team continues losing for two future first-round picks from the Lakers.
Haynes also pointed out DeRozan’s current contract situation being something that could spur a trade from the team.
“DeRozan, who has been the Bulls’ most consistent star, has one year remaining on his deal. Playing on an expiring contract is a non-starter for most high-caliber players. The options: Extend after the season or ask for a new location. Chicago has its work cut out.”
If there is no interest from the Bulls in extending DeRozan beyond this season, trading him for as many assets as possible makes sense. Given how well he has played, Chicago would certainly net more in a trade package than they sent to the Spurs in exchange for him.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: DeMar DeRozan & Chicago Bulls Updates
Tough decisions certainly lie ahead for the Bulls’ front office as they are staring down the harsh reality of possibly needing to rebuild again as this current core may have already run its course.
