Los Angeles. It’s one of the most iconic cities in the world. It’s also a hotbed for NBA basketball. That’s not only because it’s the Lakers are so ionic. Los Angeles has produced its share of NBA talent, too.
Kawhi Leonard. James Harden. DeMar DeRozan. These are just some of the most prominent names that have emerged from sunny L.A. For the most part, they probably grew up imagining themselves in the purple-and-gold. With that said, they may not find the opportunity to play for the Lakers.
Leonard almost did, and Harden likely never will. On the other hand, DeRozan could still land on the Lakers. He’s been linked to them before, and they could use his services. Here’s a deal that lands him there.
The Trade Proposal
Chicago Bulls Receive: G D’Angelo Russell, F Rui Hachimura
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: G/F DeMar DeRozan
For a long time, the Lakers have been Los Angeles’ team. Is that still the case? Probably. Still, it’s less clear than it was before. In recent years, the Clippers have been knocking on the Lakers’ door.
For a long time, they weren’t even close. Throughout the 1990s, the Clippers were perennial bottom feeders. That all changed when Blake Griffin and Chris Paul came to town. Lob City was born. The Clippers still haven’t won an NBA title, but they’ve been relevant for the better part of a decade.
NBA NEWS, TRADES & RUMORS: DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Meanwhile, it’s been a strange decade for the Lakers. They’ve got an NBA championship to their name. Still, they’ve had an uncharacteristic number of disappointing seasons as well. The transition from the late Kobe Bryant era into the modern NBA hasn’t always been smooth. Could acquiring DeRozan make for a smoother 2023-24?
Why The Los Angeles Lakers Do The Deal
The Lakers can’t make this deal at the moment. That’s fine – they wouldn’t want to, anyway. If Hachimura continues his postseason breakout, and the Lakers are playing well enough, they’ll want to pass on this deal.
At least, they might. At the same time, let’s be clear – DeRozan is the best player in this trade. That’s a non-starter. DeRozan is among the most talented shot creators in the NBA. He’s also developed into an outstanding playmaker who can set up teammates at will. He’s a fantastic player.
NBA NEWS, TRADES & RUMORS: DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Meanwhile, the Lakers’ signing of Gabe Vincent could render Russell expendable. The Lakers could get their secondary playmaking from DeRozan, and just look for floor spacing at the 1. Even the addition of Taurean Prince could ease the pain of losing Hachimura. Should the Bulls be interested in either of these players?
Why The Chicago Bulls Do The Deal
Some Bulls fans will think we’re selling DeRozan short. We disagree. As talented as he is, DeRozan is an aging, ball-dominant player who doesn’t space the floor or offer a lot of defensive value. The Bulls won’t get a haul for him.
Could they get a first-round pick for him? Sure. With that said, they could probably get one for one of Russell or Hachimura as well. This deal should suit the Bulls no matter what they’re doing. If they’re rebuilding, Hachimura could be a part of their future. Otherwise, this team does need a point guard.
NBA NEWS, TRADES & RUMORS: DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
That’s not to say this deal will make them better – DeRozan is the best player in this deal. Still, Russell is a solid playmaker who can make up for much of Lonzo Ball’s absence on the offensive end. If the Lakers are interested in bringing DeRozan home, the Bulls would have to consider this deal.
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