Russell Westbrook to Bulls? Exploring Possible Trade Between Clippers and Chicago’s Troubled NBA Franchise

The Chicago Bulls, once promising with a 27-13 record on January 14, 2022, spiraled into mediocrity since. Lonzo Ball’s absence since that date symbolizes the team’s downturn. Despite his limited play due to knee surgeries, the Bulls have struggled. The team, under owner Jerry Reinsdorf, historically avoids complete rebuilds. However, with their current state, it’s suggested to break up the roster for a much-needed reset.

The once-fun team loaded with potential is now underperforming, prompting the need for strategic trades to rejuvenate the Bulls and set them on a better path. With that considered here is a possible solution to aiding the troubled team.

A potential Russell Westbrook move to Chicago

This trade aims to clear both short- and long-term financial obligations tied to Nikola Vucevic for the Chicago Bulls. The Bulls will save approximately $2 million for the current season and roughly $21.8 million over the next three seasons. The contracts of Ivica Zubac, Amir Coffey, and Russell Westbrook all expire after the 2024-25 season, allowing Chicago to exit the final year of Vucevic’s deal. The assumption involves Chicago either outright waiving Westbrook or opting for a buyout. As Westbrook’s salary falls below the Non-Taxpayer MLE, he could freely join any team in need of a point guard for the stretch run.

On the Clippers’ end, the addition of Vucevic provides a superior offensive fit with their star trio of Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and James Harden. This trade also resolves a bit of the Clippers’ backcourt logjam without necessitating Westbrook’s waiver. For the Bulls, the Draft pick situation also seems dicey.

The Chicago Bulls draft pick situation

The Chicago Bulls’ first-round picks present complexities. They possess their own pick in 2024 but owe a pick with sliding protections to the San Antonio Spurs (top-10 protected in 2025, top-8 protected in 2026 and 2027). From 2028 to 2030, the Bulls own their own first-round picks. Additionally, the Bulls are due a first-round pick from the Portland Trail Blazers, which is lottery-protected from 2024 through 2028.

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In the second round, the Bulls have traded away their picks from 2024 through 2027. The earliest chance for Chicago to make a selection is in 2028, contingent on conveying a first-round pick to the Spurs by then. An additional second-round pick in 2028 is possible if Portland hasn’t conveyed a first-rounder by that time. The Bulls retain ownership of their own second-round picks in 2029 and 2030. Do you think Russ will go with the Bulls?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments section.

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