NBA Trade Rumors: Toronto Raptors Might Sign $90 Million Chicago Bulls in Potential Rebuild Shift; RJ Barrett Key Trade Asset?
The
Chicago Bulls
, still in the thick of a rebuild after missing the postseason in seven of the past eight years, could be preparing for a significant roster shake-up. A recent trade pitch from Mark Morales-Smith of SI.com suggests the team could send forward
Patrick Williams
to the
Toronto Raptors
in exchange for wing scorer RJ Barrett.
Proposed Trade Details
Chicago Bulls Receive
Toronto Raptors Receive
RJ Barrett
Patrick Williams
Jevon Carter
First-round pick
Morales-Smith's mock deal positions Barrett as a potential cornerstone for the
Chicago Bulls
' young core, which already features
Josh Giddey
, Matas Buzelis, Isaac Okoro, and recent No. 12 pick Noa Essengue.
Why the Chicago Bulls Might Consider the Move
The Chicago Bulls remains in a contract stalemate with Giddey this summer, but plans to offer him a long-term extension are in motion. With promising frontcourt depth in place, the front office could be open to moving on from Patrick Williams, whose production hasn't matched expectations since being drafted fourth overall in 2020.
Despite an underwhelming track record, the Bulls extended Patrick Williams in June 2024 on a five-year, $90 million deal. Trading him for Barrett - who has posted All-Star-level numbers - would immediately give Chicago a dynamic scoring threat. Barrett would likely slot in as the team's No. 1 offensive option, replacing some of the load that might be lost if Coby White departs in free agency next summer.
RJ Barrett's Impact and Numbers
Barrett, 25, has consistently proven his offensive value, averaging at least 19.6 points per game in each of the last four seasons. In his first full season with Toronto during 2024-25, he delivered:
Stat
Value
Points per game
21.1
Rebounds
6.3
Assists
5.4
Minutes
32.2
Games played
58
His scoring ability, rebounding presence, and playmaking would not only boost Chicago's offense but also bring balance to a roster currently leaning on young talent with untapped potential.
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Raptors' Perspective
For the
Toronto Raptors
, this deal could be about adding long-term assets while gaining a young forward in Patrick Williams, who still carries upside despite inconsistent performance. Jevon Carter's inclusion adds depth at the guard spot, and the first-round pick strengthens the Raptors' asset base.
Also read:
Warriors Rumors: Golden State Predicted to Cut Ties with Jonathan Kuminga for $69 Million Chicago Bulls Superstar
A Potential Turning Point for Chicago
Morales-Smith summed up the reasoning behind the swap by noting that moving on from Patrick Williams for Barrett 'would fit Chicago's rebuild and provide the team with a talented wing to pair with its young core.' If executed, the trade could mark a decisive step in reshaping the Chicago Bulls into a competitive force in the Eastern Conference over the next few seasons.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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