Why the Chicago Bulls Must Make an Offseason Move

During the 2012-13 NBA season, Chicago Bulls starting point guard Derrick Rose’s salary will be $15.5 million. With the torn ACL injury he suffered and understanding the average recovery time, I do not believe that he will play a game before February.

In addition to that, Carlos Boozer is set to make $15 million, while Luol Deng and Joakim Noah will snag $13.3 and $12.1 million, respectively. Once you add the total salaries for each player you come up with $55.9 million and the chief reason the Bulls must make an offseason trade.

With the NBA salary cap set to be slightly above $58 million, the Bulls will have over 96 percent of the salary cap invested in four players.

Welcome to “Salary Cap Hell,” ladies and gentlemen!

With a roster that has to be filled, the Bulls face a serious dilemma: how to add players while improving the team.

The most likely scenario involves the Bulls trading one of their top players, probably Deng or Noah, for lower-salaried players and/or draft picks. Using Deng or Noah as trade bait could net the Bulls a fairly good return.

Teams who will be looking to compete for playoff spots would be interested in bringing in Luol Deng or Joakim Noah. They are All-Star caliber players. The fact that Deng made the All-Star team last year makes him attractive to a team like the Kings that can offer guard Tyreke Evans in return.

A team—like the Rockets—that is always looking for a center could be interested in Joakim Noah. Would they be willing to part with Kyle Lowry?  

Another scenario would be the Bulls trading cash considerations for a couple of second-round draft picks. This would be a good way to fill up the roster with young players who are looking to prove themselves. There is usually a ton of wheeling and dealing in the second round of the draft, and while the Bulls may not find a star, they can find a couple of good role players.

Simply put, the Bulls must do something drastic or cerebral just to field the required 13 bodies on their roster. I believe a trade is the best way to go.

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