Chicago was supposed to be “big sellers,” a lie told about as often as Santa Claus. Isaac Okoro is the most recent name to draw some interest, but could this one actually materialize?
We’re about 23 days away from the NBA trade deadline, and all we have so far are rumors and no real transactions. After Trae Young got dealt to the Wizards, we assumed the floodgates would’ve opened, but so far—nada.
Why Do the Lakers Want Isaac Okoro?
Per Evan Sidery, the Los Angeles Lakers have “checked in” with the Bulls on Isaac Okoro. Okoro signed a three-year, $38 million deal with Cleveland back in 2024 and played a big role on their 64-win season last year. However, the Cavs dealt him to Chicago in the offseason in exchange for Lonzo Ball, where he is now starting for the Bulls.
The Lakers have checked in with the Bulls during trade season on Isaac Okoro.After being traded from the Cavaliers for Lonzo Ball, Okoro has started every game for Chicago.Okoro’s $11 million salary can be matched with one of LA’s expirings + Dalton Knecht as a sweetener. pic.twitter.com/aF8y9emlZH
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) January 13, 2026He’s averaging 8.6 points per game, 2.7 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and one stock per game.
The Los Angeles Lakers are currently the fifth seed in the West with a 23–14 record. They have a top-10 offense but one of the worst defenses in the NBA. On some nights, even when Luka Dončić and LeBron James stuff the stat sheet, they come away with disappointing losses against some of the worst teams in the league. They’re currently on a three-game losing streak and are missing the offensive production of Austin Reaves.
Which is why they’re looking to bolster their depth and have their eyes on Isaac Okoro.
In return, the Bulls could potentially get a matching expiring contract and maybe Dalton Knecht. Dalton hasn’t been as good as he was in his first run in L.A. before the failed trade to the Hornets. Since then, he hasn’t been able to replicate that shooting touch, but maybe a change of scenery in Chicago is exactly what he needs.
What Would the Trade Package Look Like?
Not a big package and financially, not too much wiggle room. But here is what it could look like.
Trade 1: Gabe Vincent + Dalton Knecht for Isaac Okoro
via NBA ESPN Trade machineTrade 2: Maxi Kleber + Dalton Knecht for Isaac Okoro
via NBA ESPN Trade MachineBoth trades follow the same basic principle: Knecht and matching contracts for Okoro.
For the Bulls, I honestly do believe they should pull the trigger on this deal. Okoro hasn’t been that great in Chicago. He’s had some small spurts, but if he still has value—and can also free up some money for the Bulls, they could build a decent team around Giddey and Buzelis in the offseason with pieces that actually fit around them.
But again, Chicago has to actually follow through.
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