Sometimes, things just need to change. That can be true in the NBA as well. Sometimes, a team just needs a shakeup. Other times, a player may need a change of scenery.
At the moment, the Chicago Bulls need a shakeup. For that reason, they’re one of the most talked about teams in the NBA. Everyone is expecting the Bulls to make a major move at this year’s deadline.
The only question is who they move and what kind of return they receive. Does Zion Williamson of the New Orleans Pelicans need a change of scenery?
It’s not as obvious as the Bulls’ need for change. Still, questions about Williamson’s conditioning and work ethic have emerged recently.
Could the Pelicans respond by sending him to the Bulls?
NBA Trade Proposal: Chicago Bulls Land New Orleans Pelicans’ Zion Williamson
New Orleans Pelicans receive: G/F Zach LaVine, 2027 First-Round Pick (CHI)
Chicago Bulls receive: F Zion Williamson, G Kira Lewis Jr.
Everyone sets out with the best of intentions. Plans are supposed to work. Unfortunately, life sometimes has other plans. An NBA team may have a vision, but unexpected contingencies can spoil that vision in a hurry.
Were the Bulls envisioning a championship when they put this core together? If so, we’ve got to question their judgment.
On the other hand, they were surely envisioning a series of playoff runs. Unfortunately, the Bulls weren’t even able to meet that bar.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zion Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans, Chicago Bulls Updates
By contrast, the Pelicans were envisioning a perennial MVP candidate when they drafted Williamson. Typically, championships come with that territory. So far, Williamson has not appeared likely to meet that bar.
Should the Pelicans respond by trading him?
Why The New Orleans Pelicans Do The Deal
It feels inevitable, doesn’t it? The Pelicans can continue trying to resist inertia. It is worth noting that, at times, Williamson has looked like that MVP candidate. Unfortunately, those times have come too rarely.
Meanwhile, Williamson seems disengaged in New Orleans. Rumors have suggested that he has been dissatisfied in this small market since draft day. If New Orleans doesn’t act soon, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see a trade request from the young star. That will tank his already declining trade value.
So, why not make this move? The Pelicans should remain competitive with LaVine, Brandon Ingram, CJ McCollum, and a deep cast of quality role players on the roster.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zion Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans, Chicago Bulls Updates
Moreover, by adding an unprotected first to an already solid collection of draft capital, they could position themselves to trade for another star before long.
Should the Bulls put them in that position?
Why The Chicago Bulls Do The Deal
Trading for Williamson is a risk. Even if those questions about his work ethic didn’t exist, questions about his body would be persistent. Williamson may be the most injury-prone player in the NBA.
At the same time, he’s flashed immense potential. At full strength, Williamson is a walking paint touch. His ability to create dunk attempts for himself is unmatched by a perimeter player in this league.
At times, Williamson has put up a big man’s shooting percentages – only he’s creating the looks for himself. In other words, this could be a risk worth taking.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zion Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans, Chicago Bulls Updates
Chicago is a bigger market, and the Bulls are a more storied franchise. If those things matter to Williamson, he may be happy there. If not, the Bulls may need to change course again.
