NBA Trade Rumors: Chicago Bulls Would Be Wise to Deal for O.J. Mayo

Let me be clear, the only way you explore this trade is if the big one for Dwight Howard becomes impossible. If that is the case, news that the Memphis Grizzlies are shopping O.J. Mayo again should be plan B.

Meanwhile, Richard Hamilton is all but delivered to the Bulls at two years and $10 million. He may have been promised the starting spot and that doesn't necessarily have to change. If the Bulls can swing a deal for Mayo in exchange for Omer Asik or Taj Gibson, it is worth it to add so much quality depth to the position in the most need.

The Bulls would need to acquire another backup power forward or center via free agency or trade. However, if they included Ronnie Brewer, it is possible they could pull Darrell Arthur from the Grizzlies.

A deal for Mayo was discussed last season, but the Bulls apparently turned it down because they didn't want to part with Asik. However, if the Bulls are able to acquire two starter-level shooting guards with only a slight downgrade to their reserve interior defense, it will make them much better overall.

The Bulls were so good defensively that they can afford to trade a little defense for offense. What is even more appealing is that Mayo is a restricted free agent after this season. If he shines, you pay him. If he doesn't, you can let him walk and you'd still have Rip for another year with a seven million dollar salary slot to replace the depth.

This is a move that helps the Bulls this year, as well as the future.