DeMar DeRozan’s Trade Preference: Knicks and Heat reportedly top choices

As the trade deadline approaches, the Chicago Bulls are drawing attention from other teams. Surprisingly, there’s more interest in trading for DeMar DeRozan or Alex Caruso than for Zach LaVine. If you want to find out more about this trade situation, click here.

Out of the three, it seems that DeRozan, who is still productive at 34 with an expiring contract, is the most likely to be traded before Feb. 8. Reports from Sam Amick of The Athletic suggest that DeRozan would prefer to be traded to New York or Miami.

According to Amick, the Lakers have also shown interest in DeRozan, with LeBron James previously having discussions with DeRozan. Although DeRozan averages 21.3 points a game with a 54.4 true shooting percentage, the trade to the Lakers seems unlikely at this time.

DeRozan’s playing style would fit naturally with the Knicks or Heat. In Miami, he would provide another shot creator and clutch scoring option for the team. His addition would make the Heat a more formidable threat in the East. Meanwhile, with the Knicks, DeRozan could serve as a veteran shot creator, bolstering the team’s playoff chances without committing long-term resources. However, with LaVine’s substantial salary, any trade won’t be straightforward for the Bulls. Trading LaVine would likely require them to take back salary, as well as secure picks and young players to begin a rebuild.

Despite the potential for these trades, the Bulls are currently more focused on exploring a LaVine trade. Nevertheless, the situation remains fluid, and the league watches with anticipation.