Grade the trade: Bulls land Damian Lillard in shocking proposal
By Tyler Watts
What do the Chicago Bulls offer for Damian Lillard?
The Bulls will have to give up one of their three stars to make the math work on this deal. DeMar DeRozan is the most likely because he is entering the final year of his contract. Going from DeRozan to Dame is a significant upgrade because of Lillard’s ability to space the floor and shoot from anywhere.
Gerald Bourguet of PHNX offered this proposal, which has Chicago getting Lillard for three players and a first-round pick.
2027 would be the first year the Bulls can offer, but they might not have that selection. The pick would be billed as two years after their commitment to San Antonio is met. Could be 2027, 2028, 2029, or 2030, which is a long time for Portland to wait.
The Suns get two capable rotation pieces and improve their defense. They are all in and continue to explore ways to turn Ayton into multiple role players.
The Blazers get a first-round pick and a former number-one overall selection in this deal. Dalen Terry struggled as a rookie, but he was the 18th overall draft choice in 2022. Portland could keep DeRozan and try to contend in 2024 or deal him for more capital.
If the Trail Blazers and Suns are on board, should the Chicago accept this trade?