3 Trades That Would Bolster the Bulls

Alright, Bulls fans.

It’s time to dive into some trade magic. Let’s break down the trades that will put the Chicago Bulls on a path to success.

Trade 1: Coby White and Patrick Williams for Jabari Smith, Reed Sheppard, Jeff Green, and a 2025 First-Round Pick

Why This Trade Benefits the Bulls

The Bulls desperately need a starting-caliber power forward. Patrick Williams has flashed some potential, but inconsistencies remain a massive concern. The team has already invested four years into Williams and his career numbers of 9.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.4 assists suggest he’s nothing more than a role player.

Jabari Smith brings length and versatility to the power-forward position. His upside would make him an ideal partner for Matas Buzelis. In college, Smith scored at all three levels. His defensive upside and ability to stretch the floor would provide the Bulls with a formidable frontcourt duo.

Jabari Smith Jr. vs Memphis

18 PTS
9 REB
2 AST
1 BLK

6-10 FG
3-4 3PT

Bari has been playing good basketball. pic.twitter.com/meuEbuG8Ak

— V̷a̷t̷o̷r̷ (@VatorSports) November 23, 2023

Reed Sheppard adds playmaking and a sharpshooting touch that the Bulls desperately need in a bench capacity. And the 2025 first-round pick is all about stacking assets for the future. This trade addresses multiple needs and sets the Bulls up for long-term success.

Jabari Smith Jr. vs Memphis

18 PTS
9 REB
2 AST
1 BLK

6-10 FG
3-4 3PT

Bari has been playing good basketball. pic.twitter.com/meuEbuG8Ak

— V̷a̷t̷o̷r̷ (@VatorSports) November 23, 2023

Jeff Green would be thrown in to match outgoing salaries.

Why This Trade Benefits the Rockets

For the Rockets, acquiring Coby White and Patrick Williams means adding two young, talented, and relatively inexpensive players to bolster their roster.

White would provide a perfect blend of scoring and playmaking off the bench or as a starter. He’s shooting the ball at a more consistent percentage than anyone in their backcourt. And he could provide some cover if the Rockets decide against picking up Fred VanVleet‘s team option.

Williams offers defensive versatility and potential as a two-way player. The Rockets are looking to take the next step in becoming legitimate contenders in the Western Conference. These additions would align with their timeline, giving them the pieces they need for a long playoff run.

Trade 2: Torrey Craig to the Milwaukee Bucks for MarJon Beauchamp

Why This Trade Benefits the Bulls

Torrey Craig has been a solid contributor, but it’s time to inject more youthful energy into the Bulls’ bench. MarJon Beauchamp hasn’t had many opportunities to shine on a Bucks team focused on championship contention and keeping Giannis Antetokounmpo happy.

Deep in his bag 💼

Marjon Beauchamp EXPLODED for a career-high 36 PTS leading the @WisconsinHerd in their win over the Birmingham Squadron. pic.twitter.com/FLUBLGO5ZO

— NBA G League (@nbagleague) January 25, 2024

In Chicago, Beauchamp could unleash his potential and bring much-needed athleticism, scoring, and defensive capabilities to the squad. His upside and cheap contract is exactly what the Bulls need as they build for the future.

Why This Trade Benefits the Bucks

The Bucks are in win-now mode, and Craig provides them with a reliable, experienced, and familiar player who can contribute immediately. Craig’s defensive skills and ability to hit open shots make him a valuable asset for a team with championship aspirations.

This move helps the Bucks solidify their rotation and ensures they have the depth needed to make a deep playoff run. There has also been reported interest in a reunion between the Bucks and Craig.

Trade 3: Ayo Dosunmu to the Denver Nuggets for Zeke Nnaji and a Future First-Round Pick

Why This Trade Benefits the Bulls

Ayo Dosunmu is from the Chicago area and is a fan favorite, but tough decisions are necessary for the Bulls to progress. Trading Dosunmu to the Nuggets for Zeke Nnaji and a future first-round pick provides the Bulls with a potential replacement for Nikola Vucevic, either now or soon.

Nnaji’s athleticism, ability to stretch the floor, and positional flexibility could make him a great fit for the Bulls. The future first-round pick gives the Bulls another shot at landing a star, ensuring they have multiple avenues to build a competitive team.

Why This Trade Benefits the Nuggets

The Nuggets would acquire a talented guard in Ayo Dosunmu, who would provide immediate impact with his scoring, playmaking, and defensive abilities.

Dosunmu’s versatility makes him a valuable addition to the Nuggets’ backcourt, offering depth and potential as they look to maintain their status as contenders. Denver could also use another player to match Russell Westbrook‘s energy on the fastbreak.

This trade aligns with Denver’s goal of maximizing their championship window while Nikola Jokic is in his prime.

The Bulls can’t just hope for a miracle in the 2025 draft because relying on hope will eventually get GMs and coaches fired. They must actively build a team that can compete at the highest level.