As we get closer to the NBA trade deadline, we could see some real surprises. The NBA is known for being a dramatic sporting league and every year we see something happen that not many people anticipated.
One team that could have a say in how the trade deadline plays out is the Chicago Bulls. Many expect the Bulls to be sellers at the deadline as they continue a rebuild that has been badly needed.
Chicago is fighting for a playoff spot and that could have them potentially make a run to make it. In this new trade scenario by Dan Favale of Bleacher Report, the Bulls land a star forward to increase their chances.
The deal would be between the Bulls, New Orleans Pelicans, and Detroit Pistons, landing Brandon Ingram in Chicago. Here is what the deal would look like:
Bulls receive: Brandon Ingram, Wendell Moore Jr., and a 2027 second-round pick (less favorable from Brooklyn Nets or Dallas Mavericks, via Detroit)
Pistons receive: Torrey Craig, Zach LaVine, and Jeremiah Robinson-Earl
Pelicans receive: Simone Fontecchio, Tim Hardaway Jr., Marcus Sasser, a 2025 second-round pick (via Detroit), and a 2028 second-round pick (less favorable from Charlotte Hornets or Los Angeles Clippers, via Detroit)
"Chicago's view of Ingram's utility is the key. Executive vice president of basketball operations Artūras Karnišovas must consider him a fringe-star keeper whom the Bulls can re-sign or someone for whom they can extract real value in a sign-and-trade over the summer."
Chicago would land a potential star for the future or some real financial flexibility. Ingram is scheduled to be a free agent at the end of the season so if the Bulls didn't want to retain him, they could let him walk and get the cap space.
New Orleans has been looking to trade Ingram since the summer and the Bulls are a prime landing spot. Chicago needs to make sure they don't lose their first-round draft pick this season and adding Ingram, who is currently hurt, could help those chances.
By trading LaVine, they would also be getting off his large contract, opening things up salary-wise. But in all likelihood, the Bulls would use this deal to land a player in Ingram to help usher in the next era of Chicago basketball.
Detroit would get a piece in LaVine to aid their own playoff chase while New Orleans nets some pieces for the future. This deal could work out well for all sides involved, making it a rarity in sports.
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Massive Trade Scenario Has Mavericks Adding Dynamic $23 Million Guard
For more NBA news and rumors, stay tuned to Newsweek Sports.
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