Would the Chicago Bulls accept this offer?
Chicago is giving up a significant haul, but it nets them a perennial All-NBA candidate. Damian Lillard and Zach LaVine would be one of the best offensive backcourt combinations in the league. Nikola Vucevic could operate as a roll man and floor spacer in what would be a potent trio.
This trade decimates the Bulls’ rotation and defense. Billy Donovan is known for his chops on that end of the floor, but Chicago would not have enough forwards on their roster. Torrey Craig would see time at the four with Terry Taylor and Julian Phillips as backups. The Bulls would have to rely on mostly three-guard lineups as well.
If the franchise wants a top-tier talent, they cannot afford to be choosy. Lillard is the best available, but the purpose of acquiring him is to contend. Not sure their roster would be good enough to do it.
Grade: C-
The Chicago Bulls cannot go all-in and unbalance their roster so much they miss the playoffs. This deal does not make sense. The Bulls would be defensively challenged in the backcourt with Lillard and LaVine. The team cannot have zero forwards on top of that. The trade itself is not bad, but what it does to the roster makes it a no-go.
Will the Chicago Bulls pull off a bold move before the trade deadline? They are certainly a team to watch, so stay tuned.
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