Why The Chicago Bulls Do The Deal?

For the Bulls, this depends on what direction they intend on heading in.

If they’re going to move Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan and start rebuilding, this is a bad trade. They’re giving up a will-be sophomore, and a younger player, and swap rights on a first-round pick.

On the other hand, suppose the Bulls would prefer to run it back. They may recognize that they needed a rim protector more than anything – LaVine and DeRozan could do better with a reliable backline on defense. If so, this is the deal for them.

After all, Robinson is already one of the best defensive bigs in the league. Moreover, the Bulls should have room to give him a bigger offensive role – presumably, he’ll be replacing Nikola Vucevic. If the Bulls want to stay competitive, this is a good deal.

Why The New York Knicks Do The Deal?

By contrast, this deal may seem strange to some Knicks fans. They’re not rebuilding – why are they taking this package?

Well, for starters, they may need to move Robinson. If they do, they should go for maximum value. It doesn’t have to be a win-now trade. The Knicks could trade the pieces they acquire later.

With that said, Williams could be a win-now addition for this squad. When he’s been healthy, he’s looked like one of the better young 3-and-D wings in the NBA. Williams also did a better job of staying on the floor this year, and he looked like a player who could help a playoff run.

Of course, Terry could have a sophomore breakout as well. He’s an interesting 6’7 guard who profiles as a strong defender and secondary playmaker. Still, this is mostly about flipping a distressed asset for good value on New York’s end.

Even if he’s unhappy, they should be able to get this return for Robinson.