Why the Bulls Should Do It
The Bulls have a new vice president of basketball operations, in Arturas Karnisovas, and a new head coach in Billy Donovan.
An all-new regime usually implements its own vision, eventually. This may not be the time to strike, but if Simmons becomes available, the Bulls should consider it.
Chicago would have to part with LaVine in this deal, giving the Sixers a talented guard who still has yet to reach his prime at 25.
The Bulls would also have to add Young in the trade, as Simmons’ new $177 million extension begins this coming season.
The two first round picks obviously add to the steep price, but if the Bulls are going to acquire a star in Simmons — the former No. 1 overall pick — the acquisition likely wouldn’t be cheap.
The Bulls should consider this because Simmons is a star already, at age 24, who can help them reach the next level as a franchise. Simmons does come with an injury-history in his past, so the deal wouldn’t be without risk. But the chance to acquire a player of his caliber is rare in the NBA.
