Ranking the Bulls’ most valuable assets before 2023 trade deadline

2. Zach LaVine

Over the last three seasons, Zach LaVine has racked up two All-Star nominations and scored the 10th most points of all NBA players while putting himself on the map as one of the league’s premiere scoring threats. For that reason, many believe he could be a dynamic second option on a true championship contender, where he wouldn’t be pressured to carry his teams in the clutch.

While LaVine’s talent is undeniable, I believe most teams would be skeptical about the thought of trading a gargantuan haul for his services. LaVine’s play has been on the rise as of late but his recurring knee issues would absolutely be a concern, on top of the fact he’s owed $178 million over the next four years. Suitors may find that an unpalatable price to pay for such a risky gamble, and thus make it unlikely the Bulls find an equitable trade for LaVine ahead of the deadline.

DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine would secure the Chicago Bulls a treasure trove of assets if they choose to blow things up.

1. DeMar DeRozan

As of the time of this writing, DeMar DeRozan‘s value has never been — and never will be — higher than it is right now. Fresh off securing his second consecutive All-Star appearance with the Bulls and qualifying for the All-NBA Second Team last season, DeRozan has provided the league with a reminder that he’s still the mid-range maestro that strikes fear into the hearts of opposing defenses. While LaVine is 10th in scoring over the last three seasons, DeRozan is even higher at 6th, while also being the NBA’s top fourth quarter scorer over the last two years.

Unfortunately, DeMar isn’t getting any younger. Set to turn 34 years old in August, we are in all likelihood getting the chance to see DeRozan’s last few years of elite basketball. If the Bulls traded him now, they would surely reel in a haul of at least two first-round picks and likely young talent on top of that. The longer they wait to do so, the faster DeMar’s value as a win-now asset will rapidly depreciate.