The NBA Trade Rumors are looking at some long-term prospects. The Chicago Bulls are one of the best drafting teams in the NBA. After the emergence of Nikola Mirotic, Taj Gibson would probably be the odd one out.

The Chicago Bulls, despite the unstable status of Derrick Rose continue to be a contender and this is because of their excellent draft record. Their patience recently paid off when Nikola Mirotic finally got to play in the NBA. He seems like a seamless fit along with new acquisition Pau Gasol. Unfortunately for Taj Gibson, there's only limited minutes to spread around.

That sounds unfair for Gibson, who is suggested by Bleacher Report to be a better player if he's on a different team: "No one's arguing that Gibson is somehow a misunderstood Hall of Famer. At the same time, it's impossible not to wonder whether Gibson-who hasn't started more than 20 games since his second season in the league-might've grown into a more robust role, if only given the chance.

With Gasol and rookie Euro-sensation Nikola Mirotic eating up an increasing amount of Chicago's power-forward pie, Gibson could become a valuable trade chip. At just under $9 million a year, he's just the kind of piece a contending team in need of frontcourt help should be looking for-one that could give the former USC standout the chance at a full-time starting spot he so clearly deserves."

There would be many teams that would covet Gibson and with Mirotic spirited play, the Bulls are examining their options. From the Chicago Daily Herald: "One idea is that the Bulls could trade Gibson, but then what happens if there's another injury to Gasol or Noah? And what would they even look for in return?

For the past few years, the Bulls have lacked an elite shooting guard, but one dropped into their lap this season, thanks to Jimmy Butler's dramatic improvement."

The most obvious need was shooting guard. We say "was" because Jimmy Butler is actually one of the best in the league right now. What the Bulls would need is cap space and draft picks-something they could not get enough of. The Phoenix Suns have an excess of draft picks and Gibson a need at Taj's position. Theoretically, this is a trade that works, but will it happen?