When ahead DeMar DeRozan returns to the United Middle with the Kings subsequent season, he can in all probability rely on a video tribute and a standing ovation.
However on Monday, what he acquired for now from the Bulls was a easy assertion from Arturas Karnisovas, government vice chairman of basketball operations, with the completion of a three-team commerce.
“We thank DeMar for the whole lot he has finished for our workforce as a pacesetter and mentor,” Karnisovas stated. “Everybody inside our constructing appreciated and revered DeMar’s professionalism and dedication to this group and the town of Chicago, and we want him the very best in Sacramento.”
Within the deal, which got here collectively Saturday night time, the Bulls get guard Chris Duarte, two second-round draft picks and money issues from the Kings, who get DeRozan in a sign-and-trade for 3 years at $70 million. The Spurs, the third workforce, get ahead Harrison Barnes and an unprotected first-round decide swap with the Kings in 2031.
The quick query for the Bulls is what to do with Duarte now that they’re loaded on guards. As a rookie with the Pacers in 2021-22, he averaged 13.1 factors, 4.1 rebounds and a couple of.1 assists and made the All-Rookie Second Crew.
“We’re thrilled to deliver Chris into the combo right here together with his expertise, versatility and offensive talents,” Karnisovas stated.
Nonetheless, that blend consists of Josh Giddey (acquired final month from the Thunder) and Coby White because the anticipated starters and Ayo Dosunmu and Dalen Terry in reserve roles. And the Bulls nonetheless have two-time All-Star Zach LaVine, whom they’re nonetheless actively attempting to commerce, regardless that his most contract and harm historical past make him a tough promote. The hope is that the 2 second-round picks the Bulls acquired from buying and selling DeRozan can now be hooked up to a LaVine bundle.
One other unanswered query: What’s the standing of guard Lonzo Ball, who hasn’t performed since January 2022 due to knee issues, and does he think about? These solutions could possibly be coming quickly, with Ball anticipated to start five-on-five scrimmaging with full contact.
NOTE: The Bulls additionally formally introduced the signing of free-agent heart/ahead Jalen Smith to a three-year contract. They didn’t disclose the cash, nevertheless it’s reportedly a $27 million deal.
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