by Marcel Mutoni / @ marcel_mutoni
According to multiple published reports, Chicago and Toronto have talked about swapping Carlos Boozer and Andrea Bargnani.
The talks haven’t advanced past the exploratory stage, per the reports, but if a trade were to happen, it would likely involve multiple players.
Per the Chicago Tribune:
The Bulls and Raptors engaged in trade talks centered on Carlos Boozer and Andrea Bargnani over a week ago, according to two league sources. […] A source says they were initiated by the Bulls and initially dismissed because of the Raptors’ desire to land the Lakers’ Pau Gasol. Though talks are not currently active, a source said the Raptors know the trade is available and could expand to include Nate Robinson and John Lucas III. Another source suggested it’s unlikely the Raptors would take on Boozer’s contract, which has $9.1 million more than Bargnani’s over the next two seasons.
Boozer makes $5 million more than Bargnani this season. Coach Tom Thibodeau long has been an advocate of Lucas III, who is playing sparingly for the Raptors. Despite the talks, there are no plans to use the amnesty provision on Boozer this summer. Boozer is having a strong season, but shedding his salary could improve the Bulls’ long-term financial picture.
In addition to helping out their bottom line, the Bulls reportedly covet Bargnani due to his outside shooting ability. On the Toronto end of things, there are serious questions about the Raptors being able to take on any more large salaries.
Andrea Bargnani seems to have worn out his welcome in Toronto, and the Raptors haven’t exactly made it a secret that they’re shopping him. Carlos Boozer, meanwhile, called the rumors “interesting”.
