Chicago Bulls: Trade packages with the Pacific Division
The Kyle Kuzma chronicles in L.A. this season have been very confusing and strange, but they are likely to come to an end at the deadline this year.
Kyle Kuzma was once thought of as being more valuable than Brandon Ingram in trade talks with the New Orleans Pelicans, but that idea has been quickly squandered. It was clear that third-year forward Kyle Kuzma’s role would be smaller this year as compared to his first two NBA seasons, but the 24-year-old has taken a step back in nearly every statistical category.
Kuzma’s poor numbers are likely more reflective of his lack of minutes than it is of his play. Unfortunately for the Lakers, Kuzma’s value has diminished so incredibly much over this season that his trade value is not close to what it should be. The wise thing for L.A. to do would be to stand pat on Kuzma at the deadline, but this is an unlikely scenario.
In this deal, the Los Angeles Lakers would receive a knockdown shooter in Denzel Valentine, one of the league’s top perimeter defenders in Kris Dunn, and a pair of second round draft picks. Dunn’s defense and Valentine’s shooting are essential for a playoff run, as LeBron James has always looked for help on the defensive end and with floor spacing. Being able to focus on offensive playmaking and getting to the bucket.
Even more so, the Lakers straight up need a legitimate point guard. Rajon Rondo is not what he used to be, and Quinn Cook is simply not good enough to be a starter on a championship roster.
Adding Kris Dunn would be huge in that he could guard perimeter threats while leaving the ball handling and distribution responsibilities to LeBron. Sending Avery Bradley to the Bulls is not too massive of a blow, as he is a decent rotational player but is owed a solid amount of money over this season and next that Los Angeles would no longer owe him.
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As for the Bulls, Kyle Kuzma would be the sole motivating factor. As a near 19 point per game scorer just one year ago, adding him would allow for another elite talent to be added to the young Chicago core. Additionally, it is possible that Kuzma’s presence will light a fire under the disappointing Lauri Markkanen to play the basketball that we all know he is capable of. Giving up two second round selections along with two former lottery picks is a lot to give up, but Kuzma is much too talented not to at least call the Lakers about.