Updated: 5/29/2024
Free Agents:
DeMar DeRozan, UFA
Patrick Williams, RFA
Adam Sanogo, RFA
Lonzo Ball, PO
JaVonte Green, UFA
Torrey Craig, PO
Andre Drummond, UFA
2023-24 Season Overview:
Chicago was as mediocre as they come in 2023. However, DeMar DeRozan emerged as the superior player to Zach Lavine, and the Bulls found a stud who has been on the team for quite awhile in Coby White. He’s become their franchise point guard, and they had a few impressive performances from young talents like Ayo Dosunmu and Patrick Williams. Still, this Bulls roster has peaked.
Holes:
Another 20-point scorer
Forward Depth
Big Man Depth
Offseason Goals
The Bulls have a big offseason ahead. Their star DeMar DeRozan is aging and a free agent, but they really cannot afford to lose him so a 3-year, $115 million contract for him to retire with the team makes sense. He also has a game that will continue to age well, more so if he keeps growing as a shooter. The Bills failed to trade Zach LaVine during the season because of his injury and contract, but they need to deal him, as he no longer fits and Coby White – 24 years old – and Ayo Dosunmu – 24 years old – have earned massive roles. As for the Lavine trade, I like a Knicks trade involving Mitchell Robinson. Robinson could give the Bulls a younger five, as he is a superior defender, and tougher.
Chicago’s next step is how to deal with Patrick Williams. The starting forward is still just 22 years old and was playing excellent ball before his injury. Williams was seeking a massive contract, but as an RFA who has not played to his talent, he won’t receive a huge contract. The Bulls should try to get a deal in the 4-year, $70-$80 million at most. He could also take his one-season qualifying contract.
In the 2024 NBA Draft, the Bulls have pick No. 11, and in that range, they can find a legit piece. To me, the No. 1 option is Kyle Filipowski, the Duke big man, who could be a four or a five and would give Chicago much-needed scoring and shooting. The Bills need to rid themselves of Nikola Vucevic, and Filipowski could give them a much cheaper and superior option. As for trading Vucevic, a straight deal for Andrew Wiggins to get another defender and shooter would be a smart choice, and Golden State could use a big who can score, so it makes sense to try. I have no idea if Lonzo Ball will be on the court again given that he has not played in two years, but he could make a difference. If Chicago can keep Javonte Green, Andre Drummond and Torey Craig for cheap, the team should, and the club should also sign Alex Caruso for added seasons if possible.
Potential 2024-25 Roster
PG: Coby White, Lonzo Ball, Jevon Carter
SG: Alex Caruso, Ayo Dosunmu, Dalen Terry
SF: DeMar DeRozan, Andrew Wiggins, Julian Phillips
PF: Kyle Filipowski, Patrick Williams, Javonte Green
C: Mitchell Robinson, Andre Drummond, Adama Sanogo
Mike Elworth's 2023 NBA Mock Draft
Mike Elworth's 2024 NBA Mock Draft
NFL Picks - Nov. 20
2025 NFL Mock Draft - Nov. 20
NFL Power Rankings - Nov. 19
Fantasy Football Rankings - Sept. 4