This year’s trade deadline has already gotten off to a far bigger start than anyone could have hoped for, as superstars Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving have been confirmed to be on the move. Meanwhile, Russell Westbrook, Jakob Poeltl, Mikal Bridges, D’Angelo Russell, and many more talented players have found new homes. The fireworks are far from over and the Chicago Bulls will have the chance to get involved if they wish to do so.
Although players like Nikola Vucevic and Javonte Green have been difference makers for this team, their perceived trade value around the league likely isn’t as high as their value to this current Bulls team. Ayo Dosunmu and Dalen Terry would also certainly receive trade interest if made available, but we’ll instead be focusing on Chicago’s top six trade assets below.
If the Chicago Bulls decide to pull the trigger on a trade deadline deal, they’ll have plenty of assets at their disposal to get a great return.
6. Coby White
In fan-made mock Bulls trades you’ll see floating around online, Coby White is by far the player most often dealt away in these hypotheticals. Buried behind Zach LaVine, many fans believe trading away Coby could be a wise move if it helps the team improve elsewhere. As White’s statistical production dropping this year, these calls for a trade have only gotten louder.
However, as Stacey King will be quick to tell you during broadcasts, Coby has displayed improvement in every area the Bulls could have hoped from him as his rookie contract expires. His defense, ball handling, and playmaking are all the best they’ve ever been. If he can keep working on his game and adding to his shooting, Coby may become too good of a role player to justify trading.
5. Portland’s 2023 first-round pick
After the 5th-seeded Suns and 13th-seeded Lakers made splashy trades last night to compete for a championship this season, I’m more concerned about this pick conveying now more than ever. In order for the Bulls to receive the rights to Portland’s first-round pick, the Trail Blazers must qualify for the NBA Playoffs outright, or finish in the top two teams of the Play-In Tournament. Currently standing 27-28 and having made no real moves to improve as of yet, things aren’t looking great. Trading away this protected pick before it expires in 2028 may be in the Bulls’ best interest.