There was a time when an Andrew Bynum for Luol Deng trade would have qualified as a blockbuster deal that would change the landscape of the NBA. Now, it is just a logical deal for a Bulls team that is admitting it's time to rebuild, and a sad referendum on how attitude issues can crush a promising career. The Cavaliers took a shot on Bynum, and didn't reap much reward. He played fairly well, but his attitude forced Cleveland to suspend him indefinitely, then aggressively seek a trade since reports said he "didn't want to play basketball anymore." Now, Cleveland has netted a very capable second banana to point guard Kyrie Irving, but had to surrender three draft picks to do it. "We have great respect for Luol Deng as a player and a person," Bulls general manager Gar Forman said. "The moves made today will put us in a better position to make the entire roster stronger for the future and to compete for a championship." The Bulls are widely expected to release Bynum, clearing salary cap room to sign a free agent as well as add fresh talent with two potential lottery picks in 2014. That release is the possible "league-altering" aspect. According to rumors, Bynum may be headed to a contender. ESPN's Bill Simmons tweeted in December that Bynum is interested in joining up with the Miami Heat or Los Angeles Clippers. "From what I hear, Bynum wants to end up with Heat or Clips. But he'd have to be released + Cavs want to trade him."
3 - From what I hear, Bynum wants to end up with Heat or Clips. But he'd have to be released + Cavs want to trade him (see @WindhorstESPN). — Bill Simmons (@BillSimmons) December 28, 2013
This season Bynum is averaging 8.4 points and 5.3 rebounds a game in 20 minutes a night-his per 36 numbers average out to 15.1 points and 9.5 rebounds. A motivated Bynum could be a major boon for both the Clips and Heat.
Los Angeles features DeAndre Jordan and Blake Griffin often down the stretch, a liability at the free throw line. In addition to being a traditional offensive center, Bynum is a 70 percent shooter from the free throw line.
In Miami, their big men are mostly power forwards, with oft-injured Greg Oden yet to make his debut. He's best relied upon as merely a lottery ticket; with Bynum in the fold Miami could become near unstoppable.
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