As the NBA trade deadline approaches, the Chicago Bulls find themselves at a crossroads with veteran forward DeMar DeRozan, who will become a free agent this summer. With Zach LaVine already sidelined for the remainder of the season, the team's decision regarding DeRozan becomes even more critical.

Darnell Mayberry of The Athletic highlights the dilemma facing the Bulls' organization. While DeRozan and the team have been unable to reach an extension agreement, Mayberry questions the wisdom of committing significant financial resources to the 34-year-old forward. Considering the team's underwhelming performance this season, Mayberry suggests that it may be time to consider parting ways with DeRozan.

The trade deadline on Thursday provides an immediate opportunity for the Bulls to explore potential deals involving DeRozan. Mayberry believes that the team can secure valuable draft assets or promising young talent from a contender in need of a scoring boost. However, there is also the option of an offseason sign-and-trade, although Mayberry emphasizes the risk of losing DeRozan without gaining anything in return if they wait until the summer.

The Bulls hold DeRozan's Bird rights, allowing them to offer him a more lucrative contract than rival teams. Nevertheless, Mayberry suggests that money alone may not be enough to sway him to stay in Chicago if he desires to be part of a winning team.

In other Bulls news, veteran center Andre Drummond has emerged as a target for multiple teams, including the Boston Celtics, Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Lakers, and Phoenix Suns, according to sources cited by Michael Scotto of HoopsHype. Scotto notes Drummond's significant value as a rebounder, currently averaging 18.9 boards per 36 minutes this season. The Houston Rockets apparently considered making an offer for Drummond before acquiring Steven Adams recently.

Additionally, the Bulls have reportedly set a price of two first-round picks in exchange for guard Alex Caruso. Alongside his defensive prowess, Caruso's $9.89 million salary next season is perceived as a bargain by interested teams. Scotto also reports that teams are monitoring the potential availability of Patrick Williams, who was unable to secure a rookie scale extension agreement prior to the beginning of the season.

NBC Sports Chicago's K.C. Johnson examines the trading history of Bulls president of basketball operations, Arturas Karnisovas, and speculates how his past moves could impact the team's direction leading up to this year's deadline.

As the Bulls analyze their options and weigh the future of their roster, the trade deadline will undoubtedly be a defining moment for the franchise as they aim to position themselves for greater success in the seasons to come.