3 offseason moves the Chicago Bulls need to make

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - MAY 11: Head coach Billy Donovan (center) of the Chicago Bulls encourages his team during a break against the Brooklyn Nets at the United Center on May 11, 2021 in Chicago, Illinois. The Nets defeated the Bulls 115-107. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /

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NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 15: Lauri Markkanen #24 of the Chicago Bulls dribbles during the first half against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on May 15, 2021 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images) /

2. Explore a Lauri Markkanen trade

Lauri Markkanen came to Chicago in the Jimmy Butler trade with Minnesota a few years back. But since then his production has slowed, as has his average time on the floor.

He is now a restricted free agent and one option is to pull of a sign-and-trade with another team. That makes a ton of sense for the Bulls if Markkanen is no longer seen as a rotational piece next season.

This is a player who went from a regular starter to only starting about half of his games in 2021. A rumor is out there he wants to play for Dallas and a sign-and-trade is the easiest option.

Moving the 24-year-old allows the team to focus its finances elsewhere. There is also nothing wrong with moving on even though he is still a young player. The Bulls landing LaVine in the Butler trade makes that deal a victory in itself.

The important part here is not losing Markkanen for nothing.

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