Starring in the NBA isn’t all about talent. Yes, that’s the most important variable. The best players in the world tend to be stars. Still, the specific makeup of your game also matters. Can you thrive alongside others?
That’s long been the question for DeMar DeRozan of the Chicago Bulls. DeRozan is supremely talented. He’s one of the most skilled scorers in the NBA. He’s also got a knack for setting up his teammates. Yet, featuring DeRozan typically hasn’t led NBA teams to very much success.
Perhaps that would change if DeRozan’s role were to change. This is a remarkably skilled NBA player. Surely, someone can find a way to use DeRozan in a way that’s conducive to serious title contention. Could the Memphis Grizzlies be the team to do it?
The Trade Proposal
Chicago Bulls Receive: G/F Luke Kennard, C Steven Adams, G/F Ziaire Williams, 2025 First-Round Pick (MEM)
Memphis Grizzlies Receive: G/F DeMar DeRozan
We feel we’ve been too critical of DeRozan. Let’s elaborate. He’s had a remarkable NBA career. DeRozan is the rare player who seemingly adds a dimension to his game every summer.
He hasn’t been completely without team success, either. DeRozan made an Eastern Conference Finals run as a featured weapon on the Toronto Raptors. We’re not saying he isn’t good. Instead, we’re simply questioning whether a team with serious title aspirations can give DeRozan a featured role.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls & Memphis Grizzlies Updates
Why? Well, DeRozan isn’t much of a floor spacer. That limits his effectiveness when he doesn’t have the ball. Meanwhile, as talented as he is, only a small handful of NBA players can dominate with the ball in their hands. Excluding DeRozan from that group is hardly a slight. Should the Grizzlies acquire him in spite of those shortcomings?
Why The Memphis Grizzlies Do The Deal
Sure. Frankly, we think the Grizzlies would use DeRozan as a sixth man. Granted, that would be a huge demotion for him. DeRozan is only two seasons removed from fringe MVP consideration. Would he accept that role?
We’re not sure. Alternatively, Memphis could use DeRozan in the starting lineup. If they were willing to move Jaren Jackson Jr. to the 5 full-time and find a way to add another sweet shooting wing, they could have solid spacing. DeRozan’s ability as a secondary playmaker behind Ja Morant could make Memphis more dangerous as a result. Speaking of Morant, there’s some benefit in adding DeRozan to replace him while he starts the season serving a suspension.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls & Memphis Grizzlies Updates
All of those are secondary concerns. The Grizzlies are title contenders adding the best player in this trade. If DeRozan is available, they’d have to at least consider it. Should the Bulls make him available?
Why The Chicago Bulls Do The Deal
The Bulls should make DeRozan available. This team was woefully disappointing last season. Whether they’re retooling around Zach LaVine or rebuilding altogether, moving DeRozan makes sense. The only question is whether this is a good return.
We think it is. Williams is a young player with plenty of potential. He’s a versatile wing who’s flashed some shot-creation abilities at the NBA level. The Bulls should be happy to invest in him, and land an unprotected first-round pick in the process.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls & Memphis Grizzlies Updates
If that feels like a low return for DeRozan, readjust your expectations. Again – DeRozan is a poor shooter. He’s also a subpar defender, and he’s aging. This is going to be market value for his services – even if his talent suggests that he’d net the Bulls more.
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