7 Players who might replace DeMar DeRozan before the trade deadline

3. R.J. Barrett

Barrett was viewed as a future star coming out of the draft in 2019, but the 6’6 wing has not lived up to the hype. He is still a talented player who continues to improve. There are head-scratching moments, but every team would be excited about a 23-year-old averaging 18.6 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 2.7 assists in 29.3 minutes per game. Barrett is shooting 38.9 percent from 3-point range with the size and athletic ability to guard multiple positions.

His advanced metrics have bounced back this season. Barrett has produced a career-high 0.093 win shares per 48 minutes, which rates just below the league average. The 23-year-old continues to improve, but he appears to be more quality starter than a star in his prime. Chicago could offer him more opportunities in the short term and use him as a piece to build around moving forward.

The Knicks only want to trade Barrett for a superstar. Could the Bulls convince Leon Rose and their front office by offering DeRozan and Alex Caruso? Everything should be on the table for Chicago as they enter a total rebuild and pairing the two could be their path to a massive return.

R.J. Barrett may be the best young player available, but the Chicago Bulls may not be able to land him without offering multiple pieces. They could look to acquire a young Lakers standout if the Knicks deal falls through.