The NBA trade deadline is fast approaching, bringing with it the excitement of potential blockbuster deals. The trade circus has already seen one huge surprise in the form of the DeMarcus Cousins trade to the New Orleans Pelicans to join fellow All-Star Anthony Davis. With Blake Griffin, Jimmy Butler and Carmelo Anthony also anticipated to don new uniforms soon, fans are having a field day figuring out the next big move.
While NBA trades involving All-Star players are undoubtedly exciting to watch, the younger stars in the league are also making waves as of late. One of the most widely discussed possible move soon involves the Philadelphia 76ers and the Chicago Bulls. In particular, a Nerlens Noel trade is said to be in the works with the center to join Jimmy Butler and Dwyane Wade soon.
Rumors are rife that the Chicago Bulls are looking for young stars to support Jimmy Butler in the hardwood court. Despite the entry of both Dwyane Wade and Rajon Rondo in the lineup, the Taj Gibson team continues to struggle in the Eastern Conference. Fans believe that if they want to have a shot at beating the Cleveland Cavaliers of LeBron James, then they should be ready to bank on younger and more flexible talents.
At this point though, no official comment has been given by the parties tagged in the NBA trade rumor. However, a Nerlens Noel trade to the Chicago Bulls is a welcomed move by the fans of the Jimmy Butler team. For his part, the Philadelphia 76ers center seems to be dealing with the NBA trade rumors as professionally as possible.
“Nerlens is a prime example of that in how he deals with [his fluctuating role] and how he interacts with his friend, Jahlil. [Even when] Nerlens’ minutes have been less and less, he’s handled it like a pro. He’s handled it really well. He’s handled it maturely and like a friend,” said Sixers head coach Brett Brown of the NBA trade rumors surrounding Nerlens Noel.
For his part, Nerlens Noel admitted that facing all the uncertainties is a difficult task. The young center, who shares the center post with Joel Embiid and Jahlil Okafor, shared that his primary goal is to do his best to help his team.
He said, “It’s still hard, even to this day, but being mature and professional about it is definitely something that I pride myself on. I know that if I stick with it, things will work out. I just try to do everything the right way and go about things in a respectful, positive manner. That’s been my main focus.”
What do you think? Should the Chicago Bulls pursue a Nerlens Noel trade? Will the young Sixers star be a good addition to Jimmy Butler, Dwyane Wade and Rajon Rondo?