Why The Oklahoma City Thunder Do The Deal 

Next season, the Bulls may be looking to take a step backwards, while the Thunder will certainly be hoping to take a step forward next season. 

As a matter of fact, they have already started this year. Although the Thunder are still a losing team in 2022-23, they appear to be a different team. There is a good chance that this team has played itself out of the Victor Wembanyama sweepstakes. 

Then, with that in mind, why not make a win-now trade this summer? In Oklahoma City, DeRozan could help usher in a new era of playoff basketball that will usher in a new era of success. He would give them a second offensive option behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander at the very least, if nothing else. 

There is no doubt that Dort will be missed by the Thunder. Meanwhile, it is important to keep in mind that his skill set is more replaceable in free agency. As a playmaker, DeRozan is one of the best options that the Thunder have if they want to add one this summer.

NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls & Oklahoma City Thunder Updates

In the ideal world, the Thunder would be able to bypass the middle of the pack following this deal. With Chet Holmgren returning from injury, continued progression from their young players, and assets to work with, there’s a lot of potential.