It seemed inevitable that the Chicago Bulls would part ways with DeMar DeRozan this summer. Their schedule didn’t align with the 34-year-old, six-time All-Star player’s future goals.
DeRozan was sent to the Sacramento Kings in a sign-and-trade earlier this month for this reason. Compared to the rebuilding Bulls, Sacramento is considered a far stronger competitor.
So what does this mean for Chicago’s future? The organization is making an effort to cut Zach LaVine’s excessive deal. However, LaVine’s deal has $138 million left over for the next three seasons, and it’s not easy to find a taker.
This seems to be a recipe for trouble for a Bulls club that will be depending more and more on youth in the future.
In NBA trade negotiations, LaVine has been associated with teams like the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors. Neither seemed very interested in accepting the balance of his deal. This can result in a straightforward takeover.
The question here is how Bulls head coach Bill Donovan plans to manage LaVine should he stay. According to the previously cited source, DeRozan served as a mediator between the two.
LaVine and Donovan have both been questioned about their tense relationship in recent seasons, but they have both played down how terrible things are while still acting professionally in public, according to Cowley. However, the insider claimed that veteran DeMar DeRozan served as a crucial barrier between the two, particularly in regards to LaVine. That cushion is gone since DeRozan was sent to Sacramento in a sign-and-trade.
Guard Coby White, rookie first-round selection Matas Buzelis, and recently acquired Josh Giddey make up Chicago’s core young group. Dysfunction is the last thing they require.
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