The Memphis Grizzlies had a challenging 2022-23 NBA season. This team couldn’t seem to escape trouble. The Grizzlies were routinely at the center of controversy. Perhaps that’s why they had a generally disappointing season.
This year, they’ll be looking to make changes. Dillon Brooks has already departed for the Houston Rockets. Marcus Smart should be able to replace his defensive intensity.
Who will replace Ja Morant’s playmaking? After all, he’ll spend the beginning of his season serving a suspension. Memphis could fall out of the playoff running if they struggle without him. Could they acquire DeMar DeRozan of the Chicago Bulls as a result?
The Trade Proposal
Chicago Bulls Receive: G/F Luke Kennard, F/C Brandon Clarke, G/F Ziare Williams, 2026 First-Round PIck (MEM)
Memphis Grizzlies Receive: G/F DeMar DeRozan
The Chicago Bulls had a challenging 2022-23 season as well. It wasn’t controversy that hounded the Bulls. Sure, there were scattered reports about locker room discontent. That tends to happen when you’re losing games.
That’s what hounded the Bulls: losing. This team was built to win. They didn’t do it nearly enough in 2022-23.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls & Memphis Grizzlies Updates
So, they may make changes this summer as well. The Bulls wouldn’t be looking to retool like Memphis – they’d be executing a larger-scale teardown. Does this deal help them start that process?
Why The Chicago Bulls Do The Deal
That’s certainly what it’s designed to do. Some Bulls fans may prefer a larger haul of draft capital. Of course they would. That doesn’t mean they’ll necessarily get it.
DeRozan is aging, a poor floor spacer, and a subpar defender. He’s not going to land a superstar’s return. With that in mind, this is a good deal.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls & Memphis Grizzlies Updates
It’s got the Bulls landing a player with some star upside in Williams. Clarke is also a solid, multi-positional defender. Throw in an unprotected first-rounder, and the Bulls may have to accept this offer. Should the Grizzlies make it?
Why The Memphis Grizzlies Do The Deal
Sure, the Grizzlies had a disappointing 2022-23 season. Compared to the Bulls, they were wildly successful. This team has a lot of talent. It all fits together nicely, too. If the Grizzlies want to function as title contenders, we wouldn’t blame them.
So, that’s what they’re doing here. The Grizzlies are making a win-now move. What are they getting in DeRozan?
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls & Memphis Grizzlies Updates
They’re getting a dynamic playmaker and shot creator. DeRozan may have his warts, but he’s still one of the more talented offensive players in the NBA. If the Grizzlies landed him, they might have an easier season in 2023-24.
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