There are a wide variety of rumors swirling around the Chicago Bulls this offseason. Big players could be on the move after another failed season.
There have been rumors for a long time now that the Bulls could move on from star players Zach LaVine and Alex Caruso. Trade rumors at the deadline saw both players going to a variety of different locations, only to see the Bulls once again not do anything. It should be noted that the Bulls hadn’t made a deadline trade in three seasons, so it shouldn’t have surprised as many people as it did.
Currently, Alex Caruso is only under contract for one more season, while Zach LaVine is under contract until 2026-27. Caruso might be easier to move than LaVine. LaVine’s rough 2024 season tanked his value at the deadline. There are ways to get this team back in contention.
Chicago Bulls: Drop Zach LaVine
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Priority number one for the Chicago Bulls this offseason has to be trading disgruntled star Zach LaVine. During the 2024 season, it was clear how unhappy LaVine was to be on the team amidst trade talks. A broken foot ended his season, but it was easily his worst one yet. He was even questioned on if he wanted to remain in Chicago.
With the Bulls looking to retool this offseason, look for them to move LaVine. Teams that could be interested, like the Detroit Pistons and Sacramento Kings, might still be willing to make a trade for him. Get as much value for him as you can.
Chicago Bulls: Keep Alex Caruso
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Every criticism that can be levied against Zach LaVine can not be levied against Alex Caruso. Caruso was once again on the All-NBA Defensive Second Team. He was also given the NBA’s Hustle Award. He’s a key player on the team and should be retained, especially given the lack of depth at the guard position for the Bulls.
Instead of moving Alex Caruso, the Chicago Bulls should resign him. Caruso is their best defensive player. In addition, he’s filled in admirably for Lonzo Ball and should continue to play a role moving forward.
Chicago Bulls: Keep DeMar DeRozan
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Keeping star wing player DeMar DeRozan should be a priority for the Bulls this offseason as well. Despite being 35 years old, DeRozan has added quality veteran leadership and reliable scoring. He also shouldn’t return at too high of a price tag.
Look for the Bulls to send him a two-year contract to keep him with the team. While DeRozan isn’t a threat at the three-point line, he’s consistent from mid-range and is clutch in the fourth quarter. Keeping him would be wise.
Stop Cheapening Out and Add Some Depth
The biggest problem facing the Bulls is their lack of a bench. The roster is poorly constructed in every way and has no depth. The team ranked either near the bottom or to the middle of the road in every offensive and defensive statistic.
Chicago Bulls owner, Jerry Reinsdorf, has only paid the luxury tax one time. Reinsdorf needs to finally invest in free agency to get some more talent. There’s no reason that signing Torrey Craig should be the team’s big offseason move like it was last year. Otherwise, the Bulls will remain stuck in mediocrity unless they want a rebuild.
Chicago Bulls: Target Trae Young
One player that the Bulls might want to explore in a trade scenario with Zach LaVine could be Atlanta Hawks Point Guard Trae Young. Young would fill a massive void left at the point guard position by the oft-injured Lonzo Ball. He also would give the team the three-point shooting and playmaking they desperately miss without Lonzo.
Coby White and Ayo Dosunmu are good enough to hold down the guard position with Alex Caruso. But having a superstar at the position who’s a dominant shooter and a playmaker could add another dimension to the team.
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About the Author
Alex is a writer at Total Apex Sports. His interests include gaming, watching movies, and spending time with his girlfriend. He’s a loyal fan of the Las Vegas Raiders, Chicago Bulls, San Francisco Giants, and the Chicago Blackhawks. You can find him on X at @alex_furtotti.
