The Chicago Bulls do not have many key players hitting free agency this offseason.
Those that fit the bill are wanted back for the most part, though. Of the group, center Andre Drummond’s decision may be the most significant.
Drummond is ending a two-year, $6.6 million contract. He has spoken openly about feeling like he is still a starting-caliber center. He has the production to back up his claims. Despite that production, Drummond has been unable to secure a consistent role with the Bulls.Head Coach Billy Donovan explored using dual-big lineups this past season.
Still, Drummond is a flight risk heading into an offseason. Players in his tier could hold more value under the new stricter CBA rules. The Bulls could turn to the draft for a replacement.
“A team can land on the best player at No. 14, while No. 1 and No. 2 can easily turn into busts,” the Chicago Sun-Times’ Joe Cowley wrote on June 15. “[Bulls executive vice president of basketball operations Arturas] Karnisovas & Co. are hoping that breakout talent hits at No. 11.
“What remains to be seen, however, is what direction do the Bulls go? Do they prepare for DeMar DeRozan possibly leaving in free agency or if he does return — the more likely scenario — draft his heir apparent at the small forward position? Do they grab a big to replace the expected vacancy with Andre Drummond looking for a new team, as well as some youth to push starter Nikola Vucevic?”... WATCH IT OUT HERE 👇🏽
Cowley also touched on the possibility of the Bulls looking to draft the top scorer available if they finally find a partner for a Zach LaVine trade.
They could also target point guard or three-point shooting help.