Former Chicago Bulls forward DeMar DeRozan recently gave Lonzo Ball his flowers. DeRozan and Ball arrived in the Windy City at the same time in 2021 and were teammates for three years.
During DeRozan’s latest appearance on the Run Your Race podcast, the six-time NBA All-Star described how Ball made his life easier in his first few games as a member of the Chicago Bulls.
“When you talk about a piece that’s missing for something… Lonzo was that big piece of the puzzle that put everything together for all of us. He made everything so easy,” DeRozan said.
NBA Trade Rumors: LA Lakers Looking For Three First Round Picks For JJ Redick To Build Around 2 Dec 8, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball (2) reacts during the second half of a basketball game against the Philadelphia 76ers at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
Unfortunately for Chicago, DeRozan and Ball never got a lot of time together on the court due to the latter’s injuries. And before Ball returned at full strength, DeRozan was traded to the Sacramento Kings in a sign-and-trade deal that also involved the San Antonio Spurs.
Chicago Bulls News: Insider reveals the team’s plan to emulate the Indiana Pacers
Long-time Chicago Bulls reporter KC Johnson said that the team plans to build a deep roster with a play style predicated on pace and athleticism. The Indiana Pacers have adapted this approach and have qualified for the Eastern Conference Finals in back-to-back seasons.
Washington Wizards: Alex Sarr and Bub Carrington Achieve Insane Rookie Feat Not Seen Since 1963-64 9 Feb 26, 2025; College Park, Maryland, USA; Maryland Terrapins center Derik Queen (25) takes a free throw during the second half against the Michigan State Spartans at Xfinity Center. Mandatory Credit: Reggie Hildred-Imagn Images
Chicago have the 12th overall pick in this summer’s NBA Draft, and they’re reportedly keen on selecting Derik Queen from Maryland if he is available by then.
“Get deep, play fast. Have two-way players, depth at the wing, depth in the front court Would Derik Queen fit into that? There are some question marks, and again, nothing is definitive here, and we’re obviously even speculating that Derik Queen could fall to 12,” Johnson said. “There is some, you know, different discussions on that. But one thing to keep in mind is that fit with the Bulls new offensive style will be crucial to this draft pick.”