Bulls star rules out requesting a trade
DeMar DeRozan has ruled out requesting a trade. The Chicago Bulls star wants to see his team figure things out. Chicago's roster was built around Lonzo Ball. The injured guard's playmaking ability is what made the rotation tick. Without their star guard, the team has struggled.
DeRozan has shone for Chicago, but his efforts haven't led to wins. At 34 years old, he wants to compete for a championship. It's looking unlikely the Bulls can provide their veteran forward with that type of platform, though.
During a recent interview with K.C. Johnson, DeRozan ruled out the idea of requesting a trade.
"Control what you can control. This may sound cliché, but I’m big on being professional even in the toughest of times," DeRozan said. "It’s always easy to run away or find an excuse or blame somebody else or whatever. But sticking through something always teaches you a lesson...I just wake up and try to be the best I can be that day and let it translate over."
DeRozan's value around the league is high. He's been an efficient scorer his entire career. He's also a valuable shot-creator and can defend multiple positions.
While DeRozan may not request a trade, he could find himself on a new team before the end of the season. Chicago's current situation is bad. Ball will miss a second straight season. The organization has little-to-no trade assets and very few developmental talents.
The Bulls are in desperate need of a reset. The best way to do that is to offload your star players. DeRozan and Zach LaVine are the two names that will bring the biggest returns. Of course, we're too early into the season for the front office to make such a big decision. Yet, if the team struggles to be competitive at a high level, the trade deadline could see a change in direction.
DeRozan has earned the opportunity to fight for championships. If not now, then in the very near future.
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