Is This Surprise Team Going To Land This NBA Star?
Damian Lillard being traded to the Heat was almost a consensus a few months back, but now it appears the Chicago Bulls have emerged as suitors. Would it make sense for them to pursue Dame?
Bulls Should Not Pursue Any NBA Stars
While attracting a star like Damian Lillard may sound attractive, the Bulls are truly not a good fit for Dame's services. The Bulls have had a star duo of DeMar DeRozan and Zach Lavine, with both averaging over 20 points per game and being selected as all-stars, however, the duo has not had success together.
Lavine and DeRozan are both terrific offensive talents but lack a defensive presence. Currently, the Bulls also have an offensive-oriented center in Vucevic who lacks a defensive rim presence. Considering the weak perimeter defense along with the lack of rim presence, the Bulls are ranked as one of the worst defensive teams in the NBA.
Bulls Should Re-Build
It is clear that Chicago does not have a recipe to win a championship, and it would make a lot more sense to trade their stars for assets and start rebuilding their team. Trading for Damian Lillard will put the Bulls in the same situation as now. Although Damian Lillard is a significantly better player than Zach Lavine averaging close to 30 points per game, Lillard is an undersized guard.
Pairing an undersized guard with a liability on defense like DeRozan would create a similar team to the old Blazers with C.J. McCollum and Dame.
With teams like the Bucks and Celtics in the conference finals, there is no realistic trade the Bulls can make to compete with them. As of now, Chicago is likely closer to a play-in team rather than a playoff team. They lack consistent playoff performers and the defense needed to compete at the highest level, and with DeMar DeRozan's contract expiring soon, trading their best players for young players and assets would be the most beneficial move for them.
Do you play fantasy sports? Check out Trophy Smack for your next league prize! If you enjoyed this article, subscribe to our Youtube channel & Newsletter for SR Original Shows & more! Finally, give our Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, & Threads a follow, all of which have great content!