One NBA writer is proposing that the New Orleans Pelicans acquire All-Star shooting guard DeMar DeRozan from the Chicago Bulls this offseason.
Our own James Piercey of NBA Analysis Network proposed that the Pelicans send Jaxson Hayes, Kira Lewis Jr. and a first-round pick in 2024 to the Bulls for DeRozan.
“Is DeRozan an ideal fit in New Orleans? Not necessarily,” Piercey wrote. “Again, this is a player who doesn’t shoot well and doesn’t defend well. In theory, DeRozan isn’t an ideal fit anywhere. Are we sure about this? We are. Let’s talk about DeRozan’s positive traits. He’s developed into an outstanding playmaker. Moreover, DeRozan has been one of the best shot-creators inside the arc in the NBA for some time.
“Perhaps he’d play the role of sixth man in New Orleans. Either way, this team would have some of the most firepower in the NBA following this deal. That sounds like a solid situation to us.”
DeRozan is one of the top scorers in the NBA. The six-time All-Star averaged 24.5 points, 4.6 rebounds and 5.1 assists for the Bulls this season while shooting 50.4% from the field, 32.4% from beyond the arc and 87.2% from the free-throw line.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls & New Orleans Pelicans Updates
A future Hall of Famer, DeRozan has career averages of 21.0 points, 4.4 rebounds and 4.0 assists with the Toronto Raptors, San Antonio Spurs and Bulls. The Pelicans need a veteran like DeRozan in their locker room who can teach the youngsters how to prepare and win in the playoffs.
New Orleans didn’t make the postseason this year. The team lost the 9-10 play-in game at home to the Oklahoma City Thunder.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls & New Orleans Pelicans Updates
Adding DeRozan next to Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum could be what the Pelicans need to get back to the postseason in 2024. It will be fascinating to see if the Bulls make DeRozan available in trade talks this offseason.
Want the latest in NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here. Follow NBA Analysis Network on Twitter and Facebook.
