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Three Realistic Trade Ideas for Ayo Dosunmu
Dec 5, 2024; San Antonio, Texas, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Ayo Dosunmu (11) looks to pass the ball while defended by guard Stephon Castle (5) during the second half at Frost Bank Center. Photo: Scott Wachter/Imagn Images

Numerous reports indicate a growing interest in Chicago Bulls guard Ayo Dosunmu. Most recently, Clutch Points insider Anthony Irwin reported that the Los Angeles Lakers could be a potential suitor for Dosunmu. It remains unclear if the Bulls' front office is actively trying to trade him, but since they are unlikely to extend Dosunmu and Coby White—who are both entering the final year of their three-year contracts—many speculate that it's time for the Bulls to move on from one of these guards. This speculation is based on the rule that they are only eligible to be extended for 140% of their current salaries, which both players have outperformed.

Both Brett Siegel and K.C. Johnson expressed that Dosunmu has attracted more interest around the league than White. Below are three realistic trade scenarios in case the Bulls decide to part ways with the hometown kid.

(Each trade has been simulated through both Spotrac and Fanspo's trade machines.)

Trade Scenario One: The Arturas Karnisovas Special

Bulls acquire: Dalton Knecht

Lakers acquire: Ayo Dosunmu

A reference to two notable trades during Arturas Karnisovas' tenure as the Bulls' lead executive is essential to uphold the integrity of the article's title, which includes the word "realistic." It's no secret that the Lakers are open to trading Knecht; they attempted to do so at the recent trade deadline. With Los Angeles's center situation relatively stable, pursuing Dosunmu could provide a point-of-attack defender who complements both Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic. Knecht offers outside scoring on a cost-controlled contract, which would not interfere with the Bulls' offseason plans for 2026.

Spotrac: Fail

Fanspo: Pass

Trade Scenario Two: Bulls Chase Upside

Bulls acquire: Jonathan Kuminga (via sign and trade)

Warriors acquire: Ayo Dosunmu and a 2028 second-round pick

The Chicago Bulls have been linked to Jonathan Kuminga for quite some time, and now they finally have the opportunity to acquire the young forward. The Bulls are taking advantage of a brutal restricted free agent market, while the Warriors gain a proven point-of-attack defender who fits well with their veteran core. In this scenario, Kuminga signs a three-year contract with the Bulls worth $45 million, a deal that he is likely to surpass in performance. Although Kuminga is not the strongest outside shooter, his ability to finish over 70% at the rim is quite impressive.

Spotrac: Pass

Fanspo: Pass

Trade Scenario Three: Realism is Redefined 

Bulls acquire: Stephon Castle

Spurs acquire: Ayo Dosunmu, 2026 lottery-protected first-round pick (via POR), and two second-round picks (2028 and 2032)

When the San Antonio Spurs decided to draft lead guard Dylan Harper , it became clear that the Spurs organization is not afraid to move on from either D'Aaron Fox or rookie of the year Stephon Castle. In this trade, the Spurs aim to capitalize on Castle’s immediate value by pursuing a veteran guard to lead the bench and secure draft compensation. In exchange, the Bulls receive a young player with potential who fits well alongside Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis, and Noa Essengue. While the realism of this trade may be questionable, the Bulls' front office has demonstrated that they prioritize actual players over draft picks.

Spotrac: Pass

Fanspo: Pass

This article first appeared on On Tap Sports Net and was syndicated with permission.

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