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Assessing the Bulls' Top 3 trade assets in attaining draft picks
Besides ongoing mediocrity and the lack of significant progress in the previous seasons, another reason why many are campaigning for the Chicago Bulls to start rebuilding is because of their draft position in the upcoming years.
The Bulls' draft situation isn't entirely dreadful. They still own their first-round pick in 2024. But on the other hand, they'll start to owe their first-rounders with protections to the San Antonio Spurs (top-10 protected in 2025; top-8 protected in 2026 and 2027) as part of the DeMar DeRozan 2021 trade. Their second-round picks will head to other teams in the next four years.
If the direction becomes evident that they'll build through the draft, then the Bulls must act by obtaining concrete pieces. Here's a look at Chicago's top three trade assets this season that can be used to acquire more draft picks.
DeMar DeRozan
Upon landing in Chicago years ago, DeMar DeRozan served as the franchise’s newest star. But Deebo hasn't powered the Bulls yet to its desired heights and is now an impending free agent.
Barring an extension, the Bulls must immediately capitalize on DeRozan's expiring contract. But given his age, his value isn't higher if compared to the other two players on this list.
Zach LaVine
Zach LaVine saw himself being an often-mentioned name in the trade rumors throughout the league this season. The fact is also that he will be unavailable in the next 3-4 weeks due to his foot soreness, and the All-Star can only hear more rumblings depending on the Bulls’ progress.
Numbers might have dipped this season, but a scorer like LaVine can still draw a first-round asset or two from some of the emerging young teams like the Orlando Magic.
Alex Caruso
With his hustle and defense, Carushow has been a daily delight for the Bulls. From these intangibles as well, this makes him the most sought-after player amongst contenders.
Caruso is currently enjoying a career year for the Bulls offensively, which makes his value rising. In a potential trade, the franchise can nail multiple first-rounders due to what the veteran brings to the table.
