NBA trades are notoriously difficult to evaluate, as what initially seems beneficial can turn out poorly in the long run, as evidenced by the Chicago Bulls’ trade of Jimmy Butler.
Looking back, it seemed the Bulls received fair value for trading a star player beloved by fans. However, as time passes, the trade increasingly appears to be a mistake for Chicago.
Lauri Markkanen is now a star, but…
Lauri Markkanen, a central piece received in the Butler trade, has become an All-Star, now averaging 24 points per game—but for another team. Injuries hindered his progress with the Bulls, and they now feel his absence keenly.
In return for Markkanen, the Bulls acquired Derrick Jones Jr., who also became a valuable player but for another team, currently starting for the Mavericks in the NBA Finals. They also received a draft pick from Portland that may never materialize, making this portion of the Butler trade essentially worthless.
No one wants Zach LaVine, including the Chicago Bulls
Reports indicate the Bulls have been trying to trade Zach LaVine, but there are no takers for the remaining three years of his contract. The Bulls may even have to pay to move him, meaning another major piece of the Butler trade might end up consuming cap space or playing elsewhere next season. While LaVine has had some strong moments in Chicago, the team hasn’t achieved significant success, unlike with Butler.
Additionally, the Bulls inexplicably gave up the 16th pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, which was likely unnecessary since Minnesota was eager to land Butler.
Jimmy Butler is a winner
Since the trade, Butler has made two All-Star teams, three All-NBA teams, and led his team to the NBA Finals twice. The Bulls, meanwhile, have not reached that level of success. Butler remains a key player in Miami, poised for another max extension.
Given that they lost arguably their best asset for little return and are now looking to offload the remaining player, it’s clear the Bulls would likely handle the Jimmy Butler trade differently if given the chance to do it over again.
