Chicago Sun-Times has released an early mock trade for the Bulls to consider, and it could help speed the rebuild process imminent in the coming years. Joe Cowley has been on the anti-Zach LaVine train for quite some time now, and with evidence coming out daily of the behind-the-scenes issues between LaVine and the Bulls organization, he’s beginning to look like he was correct all along. With the trade rumors heating up surrounding the 28-year-old star, Cowley has proposed a trade that could help reestablish two disgruntled stars in new homes. Is Williamson a good fit in Chicago, and do the Bulls have the assets to pull this trade off?
Please make no mistake about it: Zion Williamson is a superstar. A two-time All-Star in his three seasons in the league, averaging over 25 points per game in his career, and being the most highly-touted recruit since LeBron James, this 23-year-old will go down in history books. He’s had issues with his nutrition and conditioning in the past, and his ability to stay on the court has been a real issue to this point in his career, but he’s committed to a nutritionist and is fully healthy in the young 2023 campaign.
A nearly 60% career field goal percentage shooter, his scoring efficiency has been historic through his first 123 career outings. His ability to finish in the paint and run in transition instantly bolsters the Bulls’ offense and free perimeter shooters. His three-point shooting abilities have faded since entering the league and are non-existent this year, but as an inside force, he would not need to regain that ability right away in Chicago.
Since his draft day, there has always been a hidden narrative that Williamson would not enjoy New Orleans. As a small market team with little to no surrounding talent as the years have passed, he’s found any excuse to remain sidelined and not commit to the franchise entirely. He’s trying to change that narrative this year but has yet to find his footing with the club.
If Chicago can swoop in on a player with Williamson’s talent and potential while the price is seemingly low, they should jump on the opportunity. Zach LaVine is clearly losing the Chicago locker room and fanbase, as Williamson seems to be in the same boat in New Orleans. A big market such as Chicago is something the former Duke star has vocalized wanting in the past, and LaVine’s fresh start could allow him to regain his confidence as a player and teammate.
Does Chicago have any chance of building a package for the 23-year-old superstar, or is this trade proposal a pipe dream in return for LaVine? If he’s headed for the door, a return of Zion Williamson would certainly turn many heads in the Windy City and re-ignite the basketball spark in the town.
