Chicago Bulls at crossroads over future
Chicago Bulls at crossroads over future
Blog Article
What does the Chicago Bulls want
On the 15th (Korean time), The Athletic reporter Sam Amick reported on the current situation in the Chicago Bulls.
"Chicago looked clear in the direction of the team's rebuilding last summer, but it didn't take any action," said reporter Sam Amick, adding that Chicago is in a complicated situation where it has to finish in the top 10 in the 2025 draft even as it seeks the playoffs now that the season is halfway through.
Chicago is currently ranked 10th in the Eastern Conference (18-23), the ninth lowest in the league overall standings. However, Chicago needs to finish the season in the sixth lowest position in the league to keep its 2025 draft pick. It is four games away from the Portland Trail Blazers (13-26), who currently hold their sixth position, and closing that gap seems practically daunting.
The team's situation is even more complicated. This season, Chicago seems to be trying to stay competitive with veteran players like Zach LaVine, Nikola Vucevic, and Lonzo Ball, defying expectations that they will start rebuilding after letting go of Derma DeRozan and Alex Caruso. But if Chicago maintains its current stance, it may be able to qualify for a play-in tournament or a playoff, but its long-term direction remains uncertain.
The current situation in Chicago is the result of years of limbo. The Bulls are the only team in the league that has not made a single trade deal in the past three years. It is unclear what decisions they will make by the trade deadline on February 7 this season.
The 2025 draft pick, which can have a significant impact on the team's future, will go to the San Antonio Spurs if it does not finish in the top 10. Currently, Chicago is aiming to advance to the playoffs, but if it continues to win, its draft pick ranking will be increasingly disadvantageous.
Chicago coach Billy Donovan stressed that the situation of draft picks does not affect the management of the squad. "No one said, 'Tank to keep the pick.' We always put it first to play honestly," he said.
However, fans and league officials are voicing that Chicago should not miss its current opportunity.
Jack LaVine has been outstanding this season, and his contract is no longer being overpaid. LaVine is heading for career highs with a field goal success rate of 51.6% and a three-point success rate of 45.5%, averaging 23.8 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 4.5 assists. This has led to several teams, including the Denver Nuggets, showing interest in him.
Nikola Vucevic is also a player who is drawing attention in the trade market. He has scored 20 points, 10 rebounds, and three assists on average this season, drawing attention from teams including the Golden State Warriors. 메이저사이트
Also, Lonzo Ball, who returned from a long rehabilitation with a knee injury, is considered a valuable asset in the trade market. He is being paid $21.3 million (W31 billion) this season, making him a full free agent in the summer.
Chicago is currently at a point where it needs to offer a clear direction. You have to choose rebuilding for the team's future or aiming to advance to the playoffs while maintaining your current competitiveness.
However, the decision to stay in the middle, as it is now, is likely to result in the sacrifice of the team's future. The decision is drawing attention from the entire league as to what Chicago will make by Feb. 7.