7 Players who might replace DeMar DeRozan before the trade deadline
By Tyler Watts
4. Immanuel Quickley
The Bulls do not have the best track record in the draft under Arturas Karnisovas. Should they prioritize young talent over picks in these trades?
There is certainty in acquiring Quickley. He is a strong sixth man who can average 15 points per game. The 6’3 guard has rated above league average by win shares per 48 minutes in each of his first three seasons. Quickley may not have star upside, but he is a solid role player for the next decade.
Chicago needs a mix of draft picks and young talent. They must acquire a superstar if they want to become title contenders, and no team is parting with one without the player forcing it. The Bulls should shoot for upside in the draft and land some young developing talent that is ready to play now.
Quickley has been in trade talks for years as New York attempts to land a star. DeRozan figures to be one of the best players available at the deadline, but he is not a top 20 player in the NBA. Will the Knicks settle for an elite scorer and six-time All-Star? They could trade for DeRozan now and hope someone better becomes available later, especially if New York just trade Quickley, Evan Fournier, salary-filler, and one first-round draft pick.
If the Chicago Bulls cannot get Immanuel Quickley, they may try to convince the Knicks to part with R.J. Barrett.