Could New Orleans Pelicans steal Lauri Markkanen from Chicago Bulls?

The New Orleans Pelicans should target Lauri Markkanen of the Chicago Bulls.

The New Orleans Pelicans should be scouring the league for value players that fit next to Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram.

One way to do so is to find talented players coming off a down year or guys who are on a team in transition between coaches and front office.

Enter Lauri Markkanen of the Chicago Bulls.

Markkanen fits all three criteria, as he is coming off a down year on a team with a new coach and new front office. His numbers dropped across the board, which led to some criticism and bickering.

Markkanen saw his scoring, rebounding and minutes drop last season, going from 18.7 to 14.7 points per game and seeing his 3-point percentage dip to the lowest in his career.

Many blamed former Bulls coach Jim Boylen, who did a poor job while in Chicago and ended up losing the team, leading to his unceremonious firing.

While there are some in the Bulls community who write off Markkanen’s devolution as part of the Boylen failure, others soured on him and don’t see him as part of the long-term future.

Is there an opportunity for the Pelicans?

Markkanen would be an intriguing fit next to Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, as he would give them a legit stretch-four who can get buckets consistently. Markkanen is not much of a defender, but the Pelicans would have one of the most dynamic offenses in the league with Markkanen on board.

So what would it take to get him?

Would the Pelicans be able to steal Markkanen without giving up any of their core? Are the Bulls interested in a full reboot or are do they think they can contend in the East?

Here’s a look at a possible trade for Lauri Markkanen.