Grade the trade: Surprise team snags DeMar DeRozan in stunning mock deal

The Chicago Bulls are one of the most talked about teams as the rumor mill heats up. Zach LaVine draws the headlines and could be involved in a blockbuster, but the franchise has plenty of pieces to sell. DeMar DeRozan, Alex Caruso, Patrick Williams, and others will draw interest if Chicago commits to a complete teardown.

DeRozan is the most likely to be traded because of his expiring contract. The Bulls' recent play has lifted them to 12th in the Eastern Conference and just one game out of the Play-In Tournament, but Chicago is not a serious contender. Unless they plan on signing the six-time All-Star long-term, it is time to trade him.

The Bulls will want draft capital and young talent for DeRozan. Finding a match won’t be easy because teams will have to fit the 6’6 forward into their style of play. Still, multiple franchises will have varying degrees of interest.

Who will try to trade the Chicago Bulls for DeMar DeRozan before the deadline?

The Los Angeles Lakers, New York Knicks, and Miami Heat are the three rumored destinations (subscription required) for DeRozan. Each has interest in adding a star and would be getting one of the league’s best scorers. His age and expiring contract may limit the bidders, but a rebuilding team looking to improve could try to jump the line in free agency.

Andy Bailey of Bleacher Report offered a mock deal that sends DeRozan to the Pistons. Detroit has won just two of their first 27 games in a season where they hoped to improve. They need more talent on their roster, and DeRozan has experience leading young teams. Here is a closer look at the trade before determining if it is something the Bulls should explore.

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