3 trade targets that could help change the Chicago Bulls' fortunes this season

The Chicago Bulls are in need of a shake-up, and these three potential trade targets could be the answer.

The NBA is a sink-or-swim league. And while it's too early to push the panic button, the Chicago Bulls may need to make some moves if they want to turn their fortunes around this season. Here are three potential trade targets that could help the Bulls take their game to the next level.

Jakob Poeltl

The Bulls' current center Nikola Vucevic is a skilled offensive weapon -- he's averaging a double-double of 15.5 points and 11.8 rebounds per game. He can score inside and out, shoot from distance and create his shot. However, it cannot be denied that he's the Bulls' third option behind wingmen DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine. And despite all the talk about getting Vucevic involved this season, his usage rate of 21.5% is the lowest of his three-year tenure in Chicago.

Furthermore, Vucevic lacks the size and rim protection needed to truly contend for a title. This is an area where Poeltl thrives. 

The 7'1" center possesses the height and length to protect the rim and contest shots and the athleticism to switch onto smaller players in pick-and-rolls. His addition could bring an immediate upgrade to Chicago's defense.

Jae Crowder

Toughness and grit are virtues that do not appear on the box score but can mean the difference between winning and losing. That's why Crowder would be a great addition to the Bulls. He brings energy, intensity, effort every night, and decent three-point shooting when given open looks.

Moreover, the 6-foot-6 forward has the experience, having played in a whopping 107 Playoff games and the NBA Finals. That's a valuable asset for the young Bulls, who may lack the know-how come crunch time. With Crowder and the Phoenix Suns agreeing to split up, the Bulls may be able to land him without giving up too much of their core.

Kenyon Martin Jr.

With the Houston Rockets not lacking options at the forward position, Kenyon Martin Jr. asked for a trade last season. The 6-foot-7 Martin is a versatile and energetic player who can play forward positions and guard smaller guards in certain situations. This makes him an ideal fit for the Bulls, as he provides depth and allows them to go small with their lineups if needed.

Martin offers quality spacing from the three-point range (36%) and has athleticism for days, as seen in his highlight-reel dunks. On top of that, he is 21 years old and won't cost the Bulls too much in assets due to the Rockets' aforementioned logjam. All this makes him an ideal target for the Bulls if they want to take a shot at making the Playoffs without sacrificing their future.