NBA Rumors: Bulls Make Former 1st-Rounder Available in Trade

 

The Chicago Bulls, for anyone that hasn't noticed, are a serious contender this season, and it's fully expected they'll be buyers at the trade deadline. But looking for an upgrade will cost them an asset. One report has former No. 7 pick Coby White being offered in a deal.

The Chicago Bulls are open to trading Coby White but are not interested in trading Patrick Williams, per @MikeAScotto.

— Daniel Greenberg (@ChiSportUpdates) January 12, 2022

Michael Scotto of HoopsHype says "Coby White is available for the right upgrade, according to rival executives." White's production is down this season, what with the arrival of Lonzo Ball, and it makes sense that the 3rd-year player would be the piece the Bulls would be willing to give up. 

White's scoring is down nearly 4 points a game, and his assist numbers have been cut in half. But his long-range shooting is at a career-best 38%, and he's had a resurgence in recent weeks, mostly while starting when Ball was on health and safety protocols. His recent strong numbers could help to feature him as a potential trade piece. 

The name that other teams keep asking for, however, is the 2020 No. 4 overall pick Patrick Williams. The 6'7" power forward is currently recovering from surgery to repair torn ligaments in his wrist, and is expected to be back sometime before the playoffs. The Bulls are reluctant to let him go. 

Scotto, however, feels that with a window to come out of the East now open for the Bulls, they need to go for it this season, and he "strongly" feels that offering Willimas to the Detroit Pistons for Jerami Grant could get them "that x-factor to get the team over the hump and also retain him next season."

Chicago is definitely a team to keep an eye on as we approach the Feb. 10th trade deadline. 

Photo Credit: Handout Photo-USA TODAY Sports