Bulls would want multiple first-rounders in any trade involving Alex Caruso

When it comes to the Chicago Bulls and trade rumors, you’ve heard the names — guard Zach LaVine and small forward DeMar DeRozan.

Those two are said to be at least somewhat available, especially LaVine.

Well, Alex Caruso could be, too. But anyone interested had better be ready to ante up. For starters, Chicago is seeking multiple first-round draft picks in any potential deal involving Caruso, per Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports.

“Chicago has indicated the Bulls would need multiple first-round picks to even consider parting with Caruso, according to league sources, if Chicago even truly considers moving him at all,” Fischer wrote.

Caruso is averaging 9.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.3 steals, shooting 49 percent from the field and 42 percent on 3-pointers. He’s considered one of the best backcourt defenders in the league and a relative bargain with a salary of $9.5 million this season.

The Los Angeles Lakers, San Antonio Spurs, Milwaukee Bucks and New York Knicks are among those interested in trading for Caruso, sources told Hoops Wire. But so far, the Bulls are rebuffing all inquiries.

Chicago is much more determined to trade LaVine, sources said, with LaVine reportedly being incredibly open to a deal.

Caruso, 29, carries NBA career averages of 6.5 points, 2.7 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.2 steals with the Lakers and Bulls, winning a championship with LA in the 2020 Disney bubble. He signed a four-year, $37 million contract with Chicago in August 2021.

The Bulls (21-24 entering Wednesday night) are in fourth place in the Central Division and ninth in the Eastern Conference.