NBA rumors: 3 new players could hit the trade market, 1 comes off

Dec 12, 2022; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward John Collins (20) and guard Trae Young (11) react from the bench during the first half against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 12, 2022; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward John Collins (20) and guard Trae Young (11) react from the bench during the first half against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 21, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Chicago Bulls forward DeMar DeRozan (11) reacts after a technical foul against the Atlanta Hawks in the second quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 21, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Chicago Bulls forward DeMar DeRozan (11) reacts after a technical foul against the Atlanta Hawks in the second quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /

2. DeMar DeRozan might see the writing on the wall in Chicago

Things have taken a turn in Chicago over the past few weeks — a stretch of seven losses in nine games that included a reported locker room argument over responsibilities and accountability. There are reports that Zach LaVine isn’t happy and it’s becoming increasingly obvious that the Bulls might not even be good enough to make the playoffs as currently constructed.

LaVine may be the piece most other teams are focused on but DeMar DeRozan has just one more season on his contract and, as an easier asset to trade, has a bit more leverage. According to Haynes, “If matters don’t improve this season, rivals executives believe it could lead star guard DeMar DeRozan to request to be moved in the offseason, league sources tell Bleacher Report.”

DeRozan could be a challenge to incorporate into a team with an existing offensive structure, just because of his on-ball skill set. But he’s also likely to be willing to try adopting a more complementary offensive role than the one he plays in Chicago if it means winning.