Bulls’ management has been aggressive, a welcome change from the past.
The Bulls’ first big move involved a trade for the Magic’s All-Star center Nikola Vucevic. Vucevic was acquired along with Al-Farouq Aminu for Wendell Carter Jr., Otto Porter Jr., and two first-round picks. At the time of the transaction, Vucevic was averaging 24.5 points and 11.8 rebounds. Impressive!
The Bulls continued their transformation in the off-season by securing Pelicans’ point guard Lonzo Ball in exchange for Tomas Satoransky, Garrett Temple, and a 2022 second-round pick. Then, Chicago signed Lonzo to a four-year, $85 million extension. Also impressive!
Next, they signed shooting guard Alex Caruso, a key role player for the Lakers during their 2020 NBA Championship run. Caruso is now on board with a four-year, $37 million contract. Finally, the Bulls signed four-time All-Star guard DeMar DeRozan.
What’s it all mean? Almost overnight, the Bulls have gone from rebuilder to legitimate contender.
A potential starting five of Ball, Zach LaVine, DeRozan, Patrick Williams (2020 4th overall pick), and Vucevic looks auspicious. Caruso, Coby White, and promising forward Lauri Markkanen (if he signs) will lead a talented second unit.
Keep your eye on the Bulls! Believe it or not, this team could be playoff-bound.
