Chicago Bulls speculative trades with OKC for Shai-Gilgeous Alexander
There are a lot of pieces on the move here, but it might actually be the most realistic trade that could be pitched in this hypothetical world. In this particular trade deal, the Bulls and Thunder get a third team involved in the talks in the Philadelphia 76ers. This trade deal also does not see the Bulls get SGA from the Thunder, but they do still get their point guard of the future.
What also works well for the Bulls here is the fact that they don’t have to part ways with someone like LaVine to get it done in the end. Having the Sixers involved in the trade talks allows them to accomplish two missions at once. But the main downside is the fact that they have to take on the remainder of the two years of veteran point guard George Hill’s contract.
Obviously, the highlight of this deal for the Bulls is getting star point guard Ben Simmons. Some Bulls fans might look at this as a downside since Simmons didn’t end the season on a high note. But he still brings a ton of two-way value to the table for Chicago.
The Bulls also do have to part ways with another future first-round draft pick.
Some of the plusses here, despite losing the first-round draft pick and key pieces like Young and White, include getting the point guard depth solidified as a whole and getting off the money of Aminu. The Bulls would actually add some flexibility to their cap sheet right away, as they would shed more salary than they take on.
What the Thunder receive in this trade deal is that future unprotected first-round draft pick from the Bulls, and one lottery-protected from the Sixers. They also get some solid younger pieces in rookie point guard Tyrese Maxey and defensive standout shooting guard/wing Matisse Thybulle. They also get Coby from the Bulls.