Chicago Bulls: Fans should want these trades to happen soon

The Chicago Bulls should make an even swap for Lonzo Ball

This is a move that’s been in the rumor mill for months now. With Lauri Markkanen getting hurt, that kind of put a damper on any move happening until the trade deadline got closer. But, both he and New Orleans Pelicans point guard Lonzo Ball are free agents after this season and an even swap would make sense for both sides.

Markkanen likely won’t be re-signed if the Bulls know what’s good for their future. He still has yet to break out as the type of player they thought the team was getting as a high lottery pick. If Markkanen wants $20 million annually going forward, the Bulls can’t afford to dish that out.

But, if they landed Ball, Chicago would and should be willing to pay up. He’s a true prototypical point guard who has become a better shooter this season. But, his best attributes come when setting up his teammates and playing strong defense.

This year, Ball is averaging 14.5 points, 5.1 assists, 4.2 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game while shooting a career-best 42.8 percent from the field (38.7 percent from three).

The Bulls need a point guard like Ball with the type of scorers they currently have on the roster. If New Orleans was interested in a one-for-one type of trade, the Bulls should absolutely pull the trigger.