2017 acquisitions
The Butler trade netted the Bulls forward Lauri Markkanen, LaVine and Dunn.
This deal is simple to grade, if we’re focusing solely on LaVine. He is becoming a young star. LaVine has a freakish athletic ability that is unparalleled by many. Not to mention, he can get buckets. Last season, LaVine averaged 23.7 points, 4.7 rebounds and 4.5 assists per game.
The same praise goes for Markkanen, as well. He’s the unicorn the Bulls need in today’s modern NBA. At 7-feet tall, Markkanen has shown impeccable handles for a big man and is growing in a variety of ways as a player. Last season, he averaged 18.7 points, 9 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game.
For the Bulls to snag these two, young cornerstone stars potentially in return for Butler–who only lasted one season in Minnesota–makes for a solid trade.
I recognize some will disagree with me in regards to Dunn, but I still think he is going to have a breakout year or be traded either for another quality player or a draft asset. Dunn showed a lot of promise during his second year in the league.
He has the ability to defend and a degree of athleticism for which he deserves more credit for. Given playing time, Dunn has proven that he is no scrub by any means. All Dunn needs is one more season to put it all together. My hope is the Bulls don’t give up on him too soon.
Grade: A