When we think of NBA teams that could make big trades, we’re usually looking at two teams in particular. Sure, some team could come out of left field, but two groups find themselves in trade speculation more than any other.
We’re talking about the Chicago Bulls and the Toronto Raptors. That makes sense. These Eastern Conference rivals are in similar positions.
They both have expensive rosters, and they’ve both been underperforming. That makes them each a strong candidate to blow up their roster and start over.
With that said, there is a meaningful difference between these squads. Scottie Barnes is a young, emerging superstar. The Bulls don’t have such a player. That gives the Raptors more incentive to start making moves with the future in mind.
Could they trade Pascal Siakam to the Bulls as a result?
NBA Trade Proposal: Chicago Bulls Land Toronto Raptors’ Pascal Siakam
Toronto Raptors receive: G/F DeMar DeRozan, F Patrick Williams, 2027 First-Round Pick (CHI), 2029 First-Round Pick (CHI)
Chicago Bulls receive: F/C Pascal Siakam
In fact, these two groups have been in trade rumors for so long that one wonders whether they’ll ever make a move. We understand – that trading a key player is a difficult decision to make.
On the other hand, it can be the best decision. After all, passivity can cost you as well. It’s already cost the Raptors. Kyle Lowry left this team in free agency. So did Fred VanVleet.
They were both players that Toronto could have extracted some value from. If they don’t make some moves soon, they could suffer more losses.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Pascal Siakam, Toronto Raptors, Chicago Bulls Updates
Meanwhile, the Bulls could soon face the same fate with DeRozan. He’s due for an extension soon. He does not appear likely to stay in the Windy City.
Should the Bulls ship him off to his former franchise?
Why The Chicago Bulls Do The Deal
This would be a bold decision for the Bulls. Many observers would prefer that they took a different route. They’d argue that the Bulls are mediocre, and they ought to rebuild.
Fair. On the other hand, Chicago has invested a lot in this roster. Besides, there’s a lot of talent here, too. The Bulls could be an upgrade away from making some noise. If so, this deal ought to suit them. After all, Siakam is a distinct upgrade over DeRozan.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Pascal Siakam, Toronto Raptors, Chicago Bulls Updates
That will prove especially true on the defensive end. Whereas DeRozan is something of a liability there, Siakam is a menace. Otherwise, these are comparable scorers and playmakers. Siakam should make the Bulls a better team.
Should the Raptors really move on from their longtime franchise player?
Why The Toronto Raptors Do The Deal
Siakam has been Toronto’s franchise player. He isn’t anymore. That designation officially belongs to Barnes. Meanwhile, he and Siakam are somewhat redundant. With Barnes emerging as a bonafide star, it feels more prudent than ever to move Siakam.
Meanwhile, the reunion with DeRozan is cute. Longtime Raptors fans will be happy to see him back in The Six. Still, that’s hardly the point here. The Raptors may be happy to add DeRozan’s expiring contract – and if they do want to bring him back, he’ll be more affordable than Siakam.
Still, this is mostly about bringing in a pair of unprotected first-round picks. Bringing in Williams doesn’t hurt either. He’s having a difficult season in Chicago, but at times, he’s looked like a prototypical 3-and-D wing.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Pascal Siakam, Toronto Raptors, Chicago Bulls Updates
Williams is young enough to grow with Barnes. He could be O.G. Anunoby’s replacement, but at the same time, they could co-exist as well. Either way, this is one big trade that the Raptors might want to (finally) make.
