Okafor to Chicago
Sixers receive: Denzel Valentine, Cristiano Felicio, 2017 Second Round Pick
Bulls receive: Jahlil Okafor
Why it happens: Similar to the way that the Indiana Pacers use Al Jefferson as a super-sub to feast on second unit defenses, the Bulls could utilize Okafor in such a role while juxtaposed with stretch-fours like Doug McDermott and Nikola Mirotic. Bulls coach Fred Hoiberg also bases many of his sets for Jimmy Butler out of weak side cuts off post-ups. Okafor’s gravity in the post would be a major asset for the Bulls’ offense. Here’s one of Hoiberg’s favorites, “Zip backdoor”.
From the Sixers’ standpoint, Denzel Valentine is a versatile guard prospect who can spend time playing anywhere from Point Guard to small-ball Power Forward. Should Valentine stay healthy, the Sixers will get a skilled and promising player, along with a flyer on Felicio and a second round pick.
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Ultimately, a deal happens when both parties are motivated to act, and feel value given equals or is less than value taken.