10 Players the Nets may replace Ben Simmons with by the trade deadline

5. DeMar DeRozan

Cam Thomas is thriving in Brooklyn. Through four games, the 6’4 guard is averaging 28.0 points per contest with the majority of his shots coming from the mid-range. He is feasting in those areas and connecting at unsustainable rates, but his success could convince Sean Marks to acquire arguably the best mid-range marksman in the league.

DeRozan is a five-time All-Star and one of the league’s best scorers. He is a career 29.1 percent 3-point shooter but is well on his way to averaging north of 20 points per game for the 11th straight year. The veteran is a master at getting to his spots and nailing shots.

DeRozan is on a $28.6 million expiring contract, so the Chicago Bulls have a decision to make before the deadline. They must do something or will risk losing him in free agency. If the Bulls are struggling, they should trade DeRozan.

The Brooklyn Nets would likely prefer DeMar DeRozan over Zach LaVine because he is an instant upgrade that gives the franchise future flexibility. If things do not work with DeMar, the Nets can cut their losses this summer and have cap space to acquire another talent. DeRozan would certainly get buckets, but is unlikely to move the needle in Brooklyn.