Home

Previous Drafts
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004

Rules

Useful links

e-mail

Home Page
 
Chicago 
Bulls

Chicago has yet another lottery pick. Their GM is Jamie Resin, and he selects:

Luol Deng, SF, 6-8, Duke

I. Season Summary


- Here we go again… The Bulls started the season with some hope. After finishing 21-61 in 2001-02, the Bulls improved to 30-52 in 2002-03, and appeared to be moving in the right direction under Coach Bill Cartwright, after he replaced Tim Floyd. Dealing Ron Artest and Brad Miller to the Pacers in return for Jalen Rose and others seemed to suggest that the franchise was willing to endeavor to emerge from the eternal rebuilding process and take a step towards competitiveness. Even prior to the 2003-04 season, however, it became clear that the Bulls would remain cursed. Prior to the season, Jay Williams rode his motorcyle into a tree, shattering his pelvis. Not long into the season, Cartwright was gone, Rose was on the way to Toronto, and former Bulls Artest, Miller played in the All-Star game, while former Bulls reserves Trenton Hassell and Fred Hoiberg played roles for the playoff-bound Minnesota Timberwolves, as Elton Brand continued to collect double-doubles for the Clippers. The Bulls ended the year 23-59, with fiery Scott Skiles at the helm and more questions than answers.

II. Draft History

(last 10 years)-
2003:   Kirk Hinrich (Kansas University, 7th pick)
2002:   Jay Williams (Duke University, 2nd pick) 
2001:   Tyson Chandler (Dominguez HS, 2nd pick acquired in trade for Elton 
        Brand), Eddy Curry (Thornwood HS., 4th pick) 
2000:   Marcus Fizer (Iowa State, 4th pick), Dalibor Bagaric (Europe, 24th 
        pick) 
1999:   Elton Brand (Duke University, 1st pick), Ron Artest (St. John's, 
        16th pick) 
1998:   Corey Benjamin (Oregon State, 28th pick) 
1997:   Keith Booth  (Maryland, 28th pick) 
1996:   Travis Knight (UConn, 29th pick) 
1995:   Jason Caffey (Alabama, 20th pick) 
1994:   Dickey Simpkins (Providence, 21st pick)

Who they should have taken draft history (it's always easier with 20/20 hindsight):


2003: Can't complain too much about the Kirk Hinrich selection, even 
though I was a fan of TJ Ford
2002:   ROY Amare Stoudamire and Caron Butler were on the board.  2nd 
rounder Roger Mason was selected 4 picks ahead of Carlos Boozer.
2001:   Blew this draft by trading the rock-solid Brand for the potential  
of Tyson Chander.  Curry was a fine pick at  #4, even though Jason 
Richardson would have looked good in a Bulls uniform.  Zach Randolph went 
15 picks later.
2000:  ROY Michael Miller was selected 1 choice after the Bulls took 
Marcus Fizer at #4, but the real crime is that the Bulls drafted 6 
players, including the acquisition of Jamal Crawford at #8, all of which 
were selected prior to Michael Redd, who was drafted #43.   
1999:   Can't complain about the selections of Brand and Artest, only 
about the fact that the team traded them both away 
1998:   Rashard Lewis was taken 4 picks after the Bulls selected Benjamin
1997:   Stephen Jackson was selected 15 picks after the Bulls chose Keith 
Booth 
1996:   Othella Harrington was the selection made following Travis Knight, 
who was immediately waived so that the Bulls wouldn't have to give him a 
guaranteed contract.  The habit of drafting and parking Euros overseas was 
not yet in vogue in 1996 
1995:  Michael Finley was picked at #21, one pick after the Bulls took 
Jason Caffey at #20… oh the humanity!
1994:  Wes Person was taken 2 slots after the Bulls took Dickey Simpkins 
at #21

III. Management/Coaching:


Too early to evaluate the tandem of Paxson and Skiles, but this offseason will go a long way towards establishing their credibility or lack thereof. Paxson took steps to create an identity for this team, firing Cartwright and moving the me-first Jalen Rose out of town, but has a long road to atone for the myriad of sins committed by Jerry Krause since breaking up the Bulls dynasty of the 1990's. Paxson was seemingly forced to draft a point guard last season, after Jay Williams' motorcycle accident left the team in a bid, but the selection of Hinrich seems to have been a positive step.

IV. Roster and Contract Info

(thank you Patricia Bender)-

Chicago Bulls        	        Date    # of      total 
Player   	..........................signed   years     salary      misc      FA
Jamal Crawford 	........  	9/25/00    4     $8,261,497    rc          '04
Ronald Dupree 	........   	1/7/04     1      minimum                  '04
Marcus Fizer 	.........  	9/26/00    4    $11,989,354    rc          '04
Kendall Gill 	.........  	8/20/03    1      minimum                  '04
Linton Johnson 	........  	2/28/04    1      minimum                  '04
Jannero Pargo 	.........  	3/15/04    1      minimum                  '04
Paul Shirley 	.........   	3/4/04     1      minimum                  '04
Tyson Chandler 	........   	8/1/01     4    $15,469,822    rc          '05
Eddy Curry .	...........   	8/1/01     4    $12,534,242    rc          '05
Scottie Pippen 	........  	7/20/03    2    $10 million                '05
Antonio Davis 	.........  	7/20/01    5    $60 million                '06
Chris Jefferies ...........  	9/30/02    4     $5,103,536    rc    t-opt '06
Eddie Robinson 	........  	7/18/01    6    $31,020,000                '06
Kirk Hinrich 	..........  	7/15/03    4    $10,242,268    rc    t-opt '07
Jerome Williams ...........  	7/18/01    7    $40.8 million      p&t-opt '07

V. Players

Center:


Eddy Curry - Eddy Curry arrived in the league in 2001 with the moniker "Baby Shaq." Although in the years since, we have seen more "Baby" than "Shaq," Curry showed continued improvement in the 2003-04 season, the third year in which his scoring and rebounding totals have improved (6.7/3.7 to 10.5/4.3 to 14.7/6.2). Like Shaquille, Curry is often the biggest, strongest man on the floor. Unlike O'Neal, however, Curry doesn't possess the combination of power and quickness that has enabled the Lakers big man to dominate on both ends of the floor. By any measure, 6.2 rpg for a guy who goes 6-11/285 is a mediocre total. Continued improvement would place Curry among the best centers in the Eastern Conference, but much depends upon his offseason conditioning. He will be a free agent following 2004-05, so there is a good chance that he'll come into camp in shape and ready for a great year.
Antonio Davis - Davis and his $60mm contract were acquired as part of the deal that sent Jalen Rose to Toronto mid-season. Davis is a hard worker who can fill in at center and power forward and give the Bulls reliable rebounding and defense. Offensively, he's limited to put backs, but is a capable veteran reserve, albeit at a higher price is justified at this stage of his career
Power Forward:
Tyson Chandler - Since acquiring Chandler with the 2nd pick in the 2001 draft, in exchange for Elton Brand, the Bulls have waited for the talented youngster to live up to his promise. The athletic ability and promise that were the rationale for the deal have been seen only sporadically, as injuries have marred each of his 3 seasons. He appeared ready to make a quantum leap in 2003-04, but back problems limited him to 35 games, of which he started only 8. As he'll be a free agent following the 2004-05 campaign, he is reported to be working out hard in the offseason, putting on muscle and getting his back healthy for the coming year. When healthy, he has shown the ability to be a top-flight rebounder and shot-blocker, although not a consistent scorer. If the best draft pick available at #3 turns out to be Dwight Howard (Okafor would be a pipe dream), it's not inconceivable that Chandler will be dealt.
Marcus Fizer - Fizer has given the Bulls backup minutes at both the small and power forward positions during his 4 years on the squad. Is a classic tweener, who does nothing well enough to justify returning as a free agent, if he finds better offers elsewehere.
Jerome Williams - Another part of the Rose to Toronto deal… Williams is a role player on a team of role players. Has never averaged double figures in scoring or rebounding, yet his agent was able to get him a $40mm contract. Bulls would be glad to package him in a trade, but this will be challenging to accomplish. Active defender and rebounder.
Small Forward:
Eddie Robinson - Robinson was signed as a free agent after the 2000-01 season, when the Bulls were finding a hard time finding free agents willing to take their money. He agreed to a 6 year, $31mm deal, and has been stealing from the Bulls ever since. Robinson has great athletic ability and makes an occasional highlight reel play, but those rare occasions don't come close to offsetting his otherwise lackadaisical attitude, lack of interest in defense, and limited offensive game. After Skiles arrived, Robinson barely saw the floor.
Scottie Pippen - Pippen must have had some pictures of Paxson in a compromising position to justify bringing back this has-been for 2 years at $5mm each. After being signed to bring some leadership to a young Bulls team, Pippen mailed in 23 efforts in between frequent knee injuries. It would be best for the Bulls if Pippen officially retired, so that they could be relieved of the $5mm salary cap burden that he is owed.
Chris Jeffries - The last piece that came over in the Jalen Rose trade, Jeffries failed to show why he merited a first round draft choice in 2002. The Bulls are stuck with him through 2006.
Shooting Guard:
Jamal Crawford - After moping about his move from point guard to shooting guard, Crawford actually provided one of few bright spots for the Bulls in 2003-04. For the 4th consecutive season, Crawford improved his scoring (17.3ppg), rebounds (3.6rpg) and assists (5.1apg). At the 2-guard spot, he gives the Bulls a 2nd playmaker and ballhandler to relieve pressure from Hinrich. Although his shot selection leaves much to be desired, he provides perimeter scoring for a team that is hard pressed for it. Crawford is a free agent, and it is important for the Bulls to resign him, as they have so little scoring punch
Kendall Gill - Brought in as a free agent to fill a roster slot, and ended up giving the Bulls 35 starts. At this stage of his career, he appears to be coasting a bit, and gives his best hustle when going to the bank to cash his paycheck. Most likely won't return.
Point Guard:
Kirk Hinrich - After Jay Williams was hurt in his offseason motorcycle accident, many felt that John Paxson was forced to draft Hinrich to fill the point guard slot, and not because he was the best player available at the 7th slot in the 2003 draft. Hinrich was a pleasant surprise to those who doubted his ability, however, winding up on the 1st team NBA All-Rookie Team. Hinrich's 6.8 assists per game were tops among rookies and 8th in the NBA, while his 12.0ppg were 4th among rookies. Hinrich was a sound playmaker, and a good long-range shooter (39% on 3's). He should continue to improve in his second season and capably handle the Bulls point guard needs for seasons to come.
Jannero Pargo - Signed in March after being waived by the Lakers. Pargo was a pleasant surprise for the Bulls. Although he's not a strong primary ballhandler, he can fill it up, as he displayed during his 13 games as a Bull, when he averaged 13.5 points per game. That stretch included a string of 8 straight in double figures, with highs of 34 and 9 assists in a home loss to Milwaukee. Pargo was only signed through the end of the season. He'll receive some interest in free agency, but the Bulls would like to bring him back.
Jay Williams - The 2nd pick of the 2002 draft was officially waived by the Bulls in February, after he and the team reached an injury settlement. The Bulls have publicly expressed that they would like to see Williams ultimately return to the team, but don't appear to expect him to wear Bulls uniform again. Williams' tragic motorcycle accident may have ended his once-promising career.

VI. Team Needs


The Bulls appear to be well set at the point guard position with Hinrich and Curry seems to have the center position spoken for. The rest is up in the air. If Jamal Crawford returns as a free agent and Tyson Chandler comes into camp injury-free, then the Bulls will have only 1 gaping hole in their line up, at the small forward position. Filling the 3 spot with a dependable player who can provide some scoring punch, either through the draft or free agency is a must. After that, needs will depend upon how the free agency situation shakes out. The emergence of Ron Artest as an Indiana Pacer really hurts to Bulls fans, perhaps as much as watching Elton Brand give him 110% effort each night for the lowly Clippers.

VII. Selection


- Luol Deng - In his one year at Duke, Deng showed the qualities that will make him a solid pro for many years. He has a solid, if unspectacular game, with the ability to score inside and out, handle and share the ball, and defend. Having overcome tremendous adversity throughout his upbringing, Deng is a mature and focused young man with an enviable work ethic. While high schoolers Josh Smith and Shawn Livingston may have higher ceilings, both are much higher beta selections, while Deng is a more certain selection for a team that can use his benefit of skills at the small forward position and his impeccable character.

VIII. Other Players Considered


Andre Iguodala - With a chiseled body, tremendous athleticism, and good basketball instincts, Iguodala is reminiscent of Corey Maggette. Unforunately, when he shoots the ball from distance, it often looks like intentional grounding. A strong two-guard who can defend, battle inside, and finish on the break is an asset, but it is questionable whether Iguodala will be able to develop into the type of consistent scorer that would make him a top-flight pro guard
Josh Smith - More athletic than Deng, but more of a question mark. Smith's athletic ability is unquestioned, and for that reason, it may fairly be stated that he has more "upside" than Deng. He also possesses a silky smooth lefty jumper. Smith is a raw talent, with an emphasis on both the talent and the RAW. His ballhandling ability, defensive intensity, and consistency of effort and focus need improvement to make the leap from high school to the association. The Bulls have a young team already, and will be unwilling to wait out another long learning curve for any high schooler who is anything short of the next Lebron James
Josh Childress - Tayshaun Prince's contributions to the Pistons season and run to the finals showed that skinny guys can play a part on a team, if a) they can score and defend, and the b) team has other beef along the front line. Childress and the Bulls fit both criteria. With long arms, quick feet, and fluid athleticism, Childress will be a fine NBA player, but not one with the fire and intensity to take over games and carry his team.
Shawn Livingston - Reminds me of a young Penny Hardaway (before his skills declined), as a true point guard at 6'7". Livingston has exceptional ballhandling and passing skills, and with added strength and time, could be a genuine Magic Johnson - type point guard. Although it would be a shame to pass up the next Magic Johnson merely because the team already feels well set at the point with Kirk Hinrich, Livingston's slender frame and erratic J justify the decision to pass on him. By the time Livingston is ready to achieve his All-Star status, he'll also be ready to test free agency.

IX. Other moves


As a first order of business, the Bulls need to resign Jamal Crawford and then extend Eddy Curry to lock up important parts of their nucleus. Competitive teams are built by getting a foundation in place, and then letting those key players grow together, rather than rebuilding year after year after year. Whether Chandler is part of that nucleus is largely a question for the doctors. If his back is sound, he could be another piece of the Bulls long-term picture. If it appears that he'll spend his career battling injuries, then it would be best to look for opportunities to move him now, rather than letting him walk as a free agent after the season.
In free agency, there are a number of players who would make sense to pursue. Although Kobe Bryant would be the perfect replacement for Michael Jordan (a decade after the fact), that seems so unlikely as to be a laughable idea. More realistic options could include Chicago natives Antoine Walker and Quentin Richardson. Both provide outside scoring and the opportunity to step into key roles for their hometown team. Lower tier free agents who could help would include Stephen Jackson and Manu Ginobili.
The rumor mill has churned with ideas of the Bulls moving the #3 pick, along with either Curry or Chandler, in packages to either Memphis in a deal to include Pau Gasol or to Seattle for package including Ray Allen. Al Harrington of the Pacers is also a player whom the Bulls may be eying, but the #3 pick would be a steep price… of course, if you could package one of those unseemly contacts to create some cap room, you never know…

X. What Will Really Happen

-
I expect John Paxson to work hard to find a taker for the #3 pick, rather than adding another teenager to the mix. If someone trades with the Bulls, it will most likely be because Howard has dropped to #3, which would mean that the Hawks would be willing to part with #6 and perhaps another 1st round pick, or another team may be enamored enough with Livingston to dangle a package in front of Paxson. More likely is that the Bulls will be picking for themselves at #3 and make the safe selection with Luol Deng.