2020 NBA Draft Thread: Bulls pick #7 (probably)

[Jcool0]

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[Chi town]

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He has stated what he wants. Winning player. Defensive versatility. High IQ. Team player. Can shoot it well.

At 7 I’d think Hali, Nesmith, Vassell Okoro

[Jcool0]

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He has stated what he wants. Winning player. Defensive versatility. High IQ. Team player. Can shoot it well.

At 7 I’d think Hali, Nesmith, Vassell Okoro

If he wants winners why would he want Haliburton? Iowa went 3-7 in his last 10 games with him averaging 12.3 points, 5.4 rebounds and 4.7 assists with 3.2 TOV. Or Nesmith who was on a 11-21 Vanderbilt team & doesn't play defense.

[Clint Eastwood]

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He has stated what he wants. Winning player. Defensive versatility. High IQ. Team player. Can shoot it well.

At 7 I’d think Hali, Nesmith, Vassell Okoro

Sounds like Obi Toppin to me

[Jcool0]

Read on Twitter

He has stated what he wants. Winning player. Defensive versatility. High IQ. Team player. Can shoot it well.

At 7 I’d think Hali, Nesmith, Vassell Okoro

Sounds like Obi Toppin to me

Bulls already have WCJ who will be 22 in April. Toppin will be 23 in May. No need for Toppin.

[Chi town]

https://youtu.be/aFLpH257yNg

I think Okoro would be a good fit.
Hard worker. Good passer. High IQ.
Elite defender.
Growing form on his shot.
Strong NBA body.

He’s friends and has worked out w Jaylen Brown in the past. Plays a lot like Jimmy Butler without the ball stopping.

[PaKii94]

Read on Twitter

He has stated what he wants. Winning player. Defensive versatility. High IQ. Team player. Can shoot it well.

At 7 I’d think Hali, Nesmith, Vassell Okoro

Sounds like Obi Toppin to me

Obi doesn't play defense

[DuckIII]

If there was a market for the pick I'd prefer we trade out of this draft. We need someone to fall in love with a prospect in our range to make that happen. Preferences would be young, cost controlled player or a future pick.

Side note - this team is desperate for a veteran that can play. Someone who's won before and can show the way, push these guys a bit. Scratching my head on who fits that criteria without taking us out of 2021 free agency.

Man I can’t agree with that. The last thing this team needs is to try to settle into the current talent pool with a “steadying veteran presence.” Unless you mean acquiring one completely separate from the draft.

This team needs to be fortunate landing a high end talent. The way to do that is in the lottery, not by trading for an established solid guy. Any known commodity we could get for a pick in this draft will just be “some guy.” Not a significant difference maker. We need to roll the dice.

[coldfish]

If there was a market for the pick I'd prefer we trade out of this draft. We need someone to fall in love with a prospect in our range to make that happen. Preferences would be young, cost controlled player or a future pick.

Side note - this team is desperate for a veteran that can play. Someone who's won before and can show the way, push these guys a bit. Scratching my head on who fits that criteria without taking us out of 2021 free agency.

Man I can’t agree with that. The last thing this team needs is to try to settle into the current talent pool with a “steadying veteran presence.” Unless you mean acquiring one completely separate from the draft.

This team needs to be fortunate landing a high end talent. The way to do that is in the lottery, not by trading for an established solid guy. Any known commodity we could get for a pick in this draft will just be “some guy.” Not a significant difference maker. We need to roll the dice.

People shouldn't forget that no one on the roster was acquired by the current GM and the current GM is high on building through the draft AND has given speeches about making trades.

I wouldn't be surprised if several of the existing young guys see the exit door in exchange for players that either change the culture or fit better. I bet that, unless blown away, we will keep the pick.

Lauri, Wendell, Coby, Lavine, Sato, Thad and Otto should pack lightly.

[Chi town]

If there was a market for the pick I'd prefer we trade out of this draft. We need someone to fall in love with a prospect in our range to make that happen. Preferences would be young, cost controlled player or a future pick.

Side note - this team is desperate for a veteran that can play. Someone who's won before and can show the way, push these guys a bit. Scratching my head on who fits that criteria without taking us out of 2021 free agency.

Man I can’t agree with that. The last thing this team needs is to try to settle into the current talent pool with a “steadying veteran presence.” Unless you mean acquiring one completely separate from the draft.

This team needs to be fortunate landing a high end talent. The way to do that is in the lottery, not by trading for an established solid guy. Any known commodity we could get for a pick in this draft will just be “some guy.” Not a significant difference maker. We need to roll the dice.

I agree unless CP3 is walking through that door to make everyone better... than we don’t have enough. We need a real #1. A winner that makes everyone better. I know Okoro is a winner. His energy, motor, and IQ will help his team win in the league.

I believe AK when he talks about our talent. He has made it clear that the Bulls “underachieved”. Obviously some of that was injuries, coaching, and I’m Evs words obviously lack of player development.

We don’t have nearly enough talent to even think of fit. We obviously need a playmaker but we shouldn’t take a lower ceiling playmaker just for fit.

This is why I like Okoro. He’s a wing, our biggest non playmaker need. He’s an elite defender that looks like he will be able to defend 1-Small 4. He is really good off ball and he moves the ball really well. He’s a really good passer and has a high IQ.

I’d say my board for us is Okoro Nesmith Hali Vassel. I don’t trust Hali’s body. I think he will be injured a lot. Nesmith is the guy if Giannis walking through that door:)

[JohnnyTapwater]

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He has stated what he wants. Winning player. Defensive versatility. High IQ. Team player. Can shoot it well.

At 7 I’d think Hali, Nesmith, Vassell Okoro

If he wants winners why would he want Haliburton? Iowa went 3-7 in his last 10 games with him averaging 12.3 points, 5.4 rebounds and 4.7 assists with 3.2 TOV. Or Nesmith who was on a 11-21 Vanderbilt team & doesn't play defense.

I always took "winners" as more of a mentality or brand of play.

Those with a good work ethic and other habits that translate to winning in the right environment. I don't think it's always as easy as looking at team records as an indictment on 1 player.

[Chi town]

If there was a market for the pick I'd prefer we trade out of this draft. We need someone to fall in love with a prospect in our range to make that happen. Preferences would be young, cost controlled player or a future pick.

Side note - this team is desperate for a veteran that can play. Someone who's won before and can show the way, push these guys a bit. Scratching my head on who fits that criteria without taking us out of 2021 free agency.

Man I can’t agree with that. The last thing this team needs is to try to settle into the current talent pool with a “steadying veteran presence.” Unless you mean acquiring one completely separate from the draft.

This team needs to be fortunate landing a high end talent. The way to do that is in the lottery, not by trading for an established solid guy. Any known commodity we could get for a pick in this draft will just be “some guy.” Not a significant difference maker. We need to roll the dice.

People shouldn't forget that no one on the roster was acquired by the current GM and the current GM is high on building through the draft AND has given speeches about making trades.

I wouldn't be surprised if several of the existing young guys see the exit door in exchange for players that either change the culture or fit better. I bet that, unless blown away, we will keep the pick.

Lauri, Wendell, Coby, Lavine, Sato, Thad and Otto should pack lightly.

I agree. But, when?

1. Our guys value is all time low.

2. AK is preaching player development and building relationships. I’m betting he waits to see what talent he can develop with what he has and restore value before any trades are made.

3. I don’t see Sato or Thad worth anything In trades outside of taking on bad salary. AK won’t do that. No one will want Otto and that salary in the lower cap.

My guess is Bulls will get summer training camp and new coach with new system. AK will make his trades at the next deadline and will try to win and make the playoffs next season. Don’t think we will see any trades until then.

[Chi town]

He has stated what he wants. Winning player. Defensive versatility. High IQ. Team player. Can shoot it well.

At 7 I’d think Hali, Nesmith, Vassell Okoro

If he wants winners why would he want Haliburton? Iowa went 3-7 in his last 10 games with him averaging 12.3 points, 5.4 rebounds and 4.7 assists with 3.2 TOV. Or Nesmith who was on a 11-21 Vanderbilt team & doesn't play defense.

I always took "winners" as more of a mentality or brand of play.

Those with a good work ethic and other habits that translate to winning in the right environment. I don't think it's always as easy as looking at team records as an indictment on 1 player.

Exactly. How did ISU and Vandy do without Hali and Nesmith?

Nesmith looks to be an incredible shooter and Evs has said we need shooting. His father played in the league. He has a great work ethic. Close friend coaches for Vandy and he says he will be a starter in the league.

Hali is a switch defender and is a good team player.

Not every player will tick all the boxes. Okoro isn’t a lights out shooter but his shot looks a lot better than Hali.

[coldfish]

Man I can’t agree with that. The last thing this team needs is to try to settle into the current talent pool with a “steadying veteran presence.” Unless you mean acquiring one completely separate from the draft.

This team needs to be fortunate landing a high end talent. The way to do that is in the lottery, not by trading for an established solid guy. Any known commodity we could get for a pick in this draft will just be “some guy.” Not a significant difference maker. We need to roll the dice.

People shouldn't forget that no one on the roster was acquired by the current GM and the current GM is high on building through the draft AND has given speeches about making trades.

I wouldn't be surprised if several of the existing young guys see the exit door in exchange for players that either change the culture or fit better. I bet that, unless blown away, we will keep the pick.

Lauri, Wendell, Coby, Lavine, Sato, Thad and Otto should pack lightly.

I agree. But, when?

1. Our guys value is all time low.

2. AK is preaching player development and building relationships. I’m betting he waits to see what talent he can develop with what he has and restore value before any trades are made.

3. I don’t see Sato or Thad worth anything In trades outside of taking on bad salary. AK won’t do that. No one will want Otto and that salary in the lower cap.

My guess is Bulls will get summer training camp and new coach with new system. AK will make his trades at the next deadline and will try to win and make the playoffs next season. Don’t think we will see any trades until then.

AK had a long talk about what he learned in Houston. Call everyone about everyone.

There were definitely a lot of long talks and interviews. If there are players that aren't hard workers or trouble makers behind the scenes, he is going to know about it. We only know a small slice of what happened over the past few years.

I'm not predicting anything but at the same time, those that seem to think Chicago is locked into its current core may be in for a big surprise. I strongly suspect that the pick is less available than any of the players. AK isn't going to take on GarPax's failed project.

[gobullschi]

https://youtu.be/aFLpH257yNg

I think Okoro would be a good fit.
Hard worker. Good passer. High IQ.
Elite defender.
Growing form on his shot.
Strong NBA body.

He’s friends and has worked out w Jaylen Brown in the past. Plays a lot like Jimmy Butler without the ball stopping.

My biggest concern with Okoro is that he doesn’t have the upside you typically look for with a top 10 pick. Is he higher on draft boards because of the lack of athletic wings? He’s a good, not great athlete and doesn’t have ideal size or length. I bet he measures closer to 6’5.

[_txchilibowl_]

If there was a market for the pick I'd prefer we trade out of this draft. We need someone to fall in love with a prospect in our range to make that happen. Preferences would be young, cost controlled player or a future pick.

Side note - this team is desperate for a veteran that can play. Someone who's won before and can show the way, push these guys a bit. Scratching my head on who fits that criteria without taking us out of 2021 free agency.

Man I can’t agree with that. The last thing this team needs is to try to settle into the current talent pool with a “steadying veteran presence.” Unless you mean acquiring one completely separate from the draft.

This team needs to be fortunate landing a high end talent. The way to do that is in the lottery, not by trading for an established solid guy. Any known commodity we could get for a pick in this draft will just be “some guy.” Not a significant difference maker. We need to roll the dice.

I should have clarified the comment about the veteran presence.... separate, smaller deal. Like a JJ Redick or PJ Tucker type. Thad was supposed to be that guy but I'm not sure what happened there.

I just feel like we're so young that these guys have no idea how to win. And they need to start winning. Like...now. We talk all the time about a need for culture change and I believe AK can be the guy to do it. But it won't mean much without tangible success.

..........

As for trading out of the draft...I just don't particularly like the talent available. I don't see the guy even worth rolling the dice on. I'd much prefer a future pick or a guy either still on his rookie contract or on what I believe to be a value deal.

[Clint Eastwood]

He has stated what he wants. Winning player. Defensive versatility. High IQ. Team player. Can shoot it well.

At 7 I’d think Hali, Nesmith, Vassell Okoro

Sounds like Obi Toppin to me

Obi doesn't play defense

Honestly, i think this narrative is overplayed. I think he plays better defense than most think. His weakness is against big bodied centers in the post which won’t be an issue in the nba. He does have weak side shot blocking ability.

[Clint Eastwood]

He has stated what he wants. Winning player. Defensive versatility. High IQ. Team player. Can shoot it well.

At 7 I’d think Hali, Nesmith, Vassell Okoro

Sounds like Obi Toppin to me

Bulls already have WCJ who will be 22 in April. Toppin will be 23 in May. No need for Toppin.

I dont think the bulls have any position covered any more than another at this point. You can trade carter. Or play them together. Toppin has much better handles than carter. And more range. Offensively I dont see why toppin cant play 3. And i realize I’m in the significant minority who think defensively he is a 3 not a 4.

[PaKii94]

Sounds like Obi Toppin to me

Bulls already have WCJ who will be 22 in April. Toppin will be 23 in May. No need for Toppin.

I dont think the bulls have any position covered any more than another at this point. You can trade carter. Or play them together. Toppin has much better handles than carter. And more range. Offensively I dont see why toppin cant play 3. And i realize I’m in the significant minority who think defensively he is a 3 not a 4.

The hope with topping is if he can play a big body 3. The shot looks smooth. However like I mentioned before, from the film I've seen he's definitely not a rim protector but he also doesn't seem to have instincts to cover the perimeter players. He's not completely hopeless but he'll be a project banking on improvement... Which is harder to stomach at a later age (as jcool mentioned, WCJ is younger than him and technically a better prospect during his draft time

[PaKii94]

Sounds like Obi Toppin to me

Obi doesn't play defense

Honestly, i think this narrative is overplayed. I think he plays better defense than most think. His weakness is against big bodied centers in the post which won’t be an issue in the nba. He does have weak side shot blocking ability.

Our board regular Cory made a video on him:
https://youtu.be/R4RhrCAxfe4

Start at ~7 mins. I'm hesitant to say someone who doesn't know rebounding fundementals can develop to be a competent defender.