Bulls Upgrade at PF-Choices?

[pipfan]

The Bulls are off to a great start, and it could be legit. Not saying they're a contender, but they have a lot of things going for them
Giddey looks like an all star
Matas could easily be a two-way stud, just needs some more time
Jones on a great deal and is a stud
Vuc/Huerter both look very good and are expiring
PWill is not terrible and is playing hard (still a bad deal, but maybe not terrible?)
CWhite and Ayo are very good young guards on cheap (but expiring) deals
Noa is a good prospect (but needs time)
Collins/JSmith provide good big man depth

Playing 11 deep and running every possession, the Bulls should be above .500 and hopefully in the top 6. BUT, they also have all their own picks, the Port pick and play in the East. If things are still looking good in Jan, should they add a PF (moving Matas to the 3) and go for the 2nd round?

TONS of options out there-the basic package could be ZCollins/DTerry/JCarter/Noa, plus the Port pick and our 2026 unprotected 1st. That saves the teams $, adds picks and a nice prospect in Noa and helps them tank for the stacked 2026 draft.

My perfect plan is add a stud at PF, move Coby to super 6th man and go with
Giddey/Jones
Ayo/White
Matas/Huerter
PF/PWill
Vuc/JSmith
Okoro/Phillips as deep bench

Donovan wouldn't do it, he'd have to start White and bring Ayo off the bench-no big deal

So, you have the basic package (Collins/DTerry/JCarter/Noa/Port Pick-lottery protected until 2028-and Bulls' 2026 unprotected 1st). Which deals make sense?

[ReggiesKnicks]

The reality is, defensively, Giddey is a Power Forward. He can't guard bigs, he can't guard POA and you want him on the worst wing, which is often where Power Forwards end up defending when they aren't impactful defenders.

With this in mind, I actually think the Bulls should be looking to upgrade at guard, wing and center. The team is fairly flat talent wise with low-end starters at the guard, wing and center positions. Outside of Buzelis, everyone should be available for a long-term piece.

Chicago shouldn't limit themselves by saying "Upgrade PF" since, as mentioned above, the team simply lacks talent overall and isn't in a position to focus in on a single positional group upgrade like a strong playoff team or contender might have the luxury of doing. This aspect is a boon to Chicago, who can be open-minded in terms of the trade market as things shake out.

[jbk1234]

I'd keep my powder dry until the Ja/Memphis situation resolves and then see how much the Grizzlies want for JJJ. It will be more than what the O.P. has on offer.

[Godaddycurse]

Claxton is not a PF

[SlimShady83]

For the poll and the players you've added, for each and everyone of them, you'll need more then just 1 pick to get them, other wise I bet other teams would of already done so

JJJ: There's no sign that Mem want to trade him yet, it's Ja not JJJ and they not in rebuild mode yet - that said they haven't even said Ja is on the block yet, but probably will lol.

Lauri: will take at least 2 if not 3 picks and/or swaps etc plus salary matching etc

Siakam: no way Pacers trading him.

Claxton: will be your only real option and last time I checked, when Lakers asked about him, was that nets were asking at least 2 FRPs for him, now though who knows.

[ReggiesKnicks]

For the poll and the players you've added, for each and everyone of them, you'll need more then just 1 pick to get them, other wise I bet other teams would of already done so

JJJ: There's no sign that Mem want to trade him yet, it's Ja not JJJ and they not in rebuild mode yet - that said they haven't even said Ja is on the block yet, but probably will lol.

Lauri: will take at least 2 if not 3 pickcs and/or swaps etc plus salary matching etc

Siakam: no way Pacers trading him.

Claxton: will be your only real option and last time I checked, when Lakers asked about him, was that nets were asking at least 2 FRPs for him, now though who knows.

I think there is a very real possibility we trade Siakam, but if he do it is to get on a different timeline from the 31 year-old all-star.

[SlimShady83]

I think there is a very real possibility we trade Siakam, but if he do it is to get on a different timeline from the 31 year-old all-star.

Really? That's interesting, I thought Pacers would at least wait until full strength again.

[ReggiesKnicks]

I think there is a very real possibility we trade Siakam, but if he do it is to get on a different timeline from the 31 year-old all-star.

Really? That's interesting, I thought Pacers would at least wait until full strength again.

Siakam will be turning 33 next season.

Haliburton is coming off an injury and we don't know how good he will be.

T.J. will be 2 years older from last year.

We still don't have a center.

It is always good to sell 1 year early than 1 year late.

[giberish]

I would generally view Matas as more of a PF then a SF. So I'd be looking for a SF upgrade more.

I also wouldn't plan on Vuc being around long-term. As there's a decent chance he gets replaced by someone who's less of a shooter I would look to add a forward who's more o fa shooter than a driver.

MPIII fits that role, but he's not that good and significantly overpaid (the overpaid part is why BK got a 1st back in the trade for him). Due to his limitations I wouldn't give more than EC filler and the Portland 1st.

Lauri also fits though his contract is large enough to somewhat limit his value. Utah would have to come down from their stubbornness with him for a reasonable deal to be had.

[vxmike]

The reality is, defensively, Giddey is a Power Forward. He can't guard bigs, he can't guard POA and you want him on the worst wing, which is often where Power Forwards end up defending when they aren't impactful defenders.

With this in mind, I actually think the Bulls should be looking to upgrade at guard, wing and center. The team is fairly flat talent wise with low-end starters at the guard, wing and center positions. Outside of Buzelis, everyone should be available for a long-term piece.

Chicago shouldn't limit themselves by saying "Upgrade PF" since, as mentioned above, the team simply lacks talent overall and isn't in a position to focus in on a single positional group upgrade like a strong playoff team or contender might have the luxury of doing. This aspect is a boon to Chicago, who can be open-minded in terms of the trade market as things shake out.

Good post. This Bulls team is winning RS games by running and wearing teams down with their depth. I’m not convinced it translates to playoff wins. Buzelis is their only talent with potential star upside. Giddey is playing great but he’s limited defensively and ultimately probably needs to slot in as a point forward on a real contender. Vuc is playing great but old and not part of any future.

They have some great tradeable expirings and all future picks, but no need to rush. They definitely aren’t one piece away.

[pipfan]

I would generally view Matas as more of a PF then a SF. So I'd be looking for a SF upgrade more.

I also wouldn't plan on Vuc being around long-term. As there's a decent chance he gets replaced by someone who's less of a shooter I would look to add a forward who's more o fa shooter than a driver.

MPIII fits that role, but he's not that good and significantly overpaid (the overpaid part is why BK got a 1st back in the trade for him). Due to his limitations I wouldn't give more than EC filler and the Portland 1st.

Lauri also fits though his contract is large enough to somewhat limit his value. Utah would have to come down from their stubbornness with him for a reasonable deal to be had.

It would be great if BRK might take PWill (playing decently) back for Porter Jr.

Collins/Noa/PWill/Port pick?

Saves BRK $, gives a prospect and a pick. PWill is a fine rotation piece for a young team

Bulls add firepower with Porter and free up 2027 cap space

I actually like the idea of adding Porter Jr. and Claxton, but that's A LOT of $ to take on

[pipfan]

For the poll and the players you've added, for each and everyone of them, you'll need more then just 1 pick to get them, other wise I bet other teams would of already done so

JJJ: There's no sign that Mem want to trade him yet, it's Ja not JJJ and they not in rebuild mode yet - that said they haven't even said Ja is on the block yet, but probably will lol.

Lauri: will take at least 2 if not 3 picks and/or swaps etc plus salary matching etc

Siakam: no way Pacers trading him.

Claxton: will be your only real option and last time I checked, when Lakers asked about him, was that nets were asking at least 2 FRPs for him, now though who knows.

A guy like Lauri, we're offering expirings, Noa (worth a 1st), the Port 1st and our 2026 unprotected 1st-that's a nice package. I realize a 2028 1st might be necessary-but not giving more than that (with some protection on the 2028 pick, I'd think)

I love Lauri's fit with Giddey/Matas long term-that's a HUGE core

[jayjaysee]

We’ve done it a few times, but I still like adding both Claxton and MPJ. And Chicago should be able to keep Vuc’s salary out of it if they want to keep him.. Has to be some sort of dialogue about minutes/starting but Chicago has a lot of expiring money and those two would seem to upgrade where they need the upgrade.

I would be aiming higher though and wouldn’t tie up future firsts for that duo… would be thinking about who is taking Vuc’s place.. Collins can’t stay healthy unfortunately.

[pipfan]

Claxton is not a PF

I think he could share the floor some with Vuc and JSmith for now, and play the 5 alone

[pipfan]

We’ve done it a few times, but I still like adding both Claxton and MPJ. And Chicago should be able to keep Vuc’s salary out of it if they want to keep him.. Has to be some sort of dialogue about minutes/starting but Chicago has a lot of expiring money and those two would seem to upgrade where they need the upgrade.

I would be aiming higher though and wouldn’t tie up future firsts for that duo… would be thinking about who is taking Vuc’s place.. Collins can’t stay healthy unfortunately.

I could see this being a fun team

White/Jones
Giddey/Ayo
Matas/Huerter
MP Jr/PWill
Vuc/Claxton
JSmith is the 11th man

Trade the following to BRK for Claxton/MP Jr-Collins, JCarter, DTerry, Noa, Okoro-that's only $45 million (Claxton/MP Jr over $60)
Would have to put PWill in, and have JSmith as the back up 4 (which still kind of works-Matas can play the 4 easily too)

So, Collins/Carter (cut, I assume), DTerry, Noa, Okoro (3rd team?), PWill plus the Port 1st and the Bulls 2026 1st unprotected. BRK throws in one of their young guys to balance the rosters (maybe Jalen Wilson?)-this could work. PWill's deal is bad, but he looks MUCH better this year and has talent

Bulls end up with
White/Jones
Giddey/Ayo
Matas/Huerter
MP Jr/JSmith
Vuc/Claxton
Phillips as 11th man

I think that team could win 50

[jayjaysee]

We’ve done it a few times, but I still like adding both Claxton and MPJ. And Chicago should be able to keep Vuc’s salary out of it if they want to keep him.. Has to be some sort of dialogue about minutes/starting but Chicago has a lot of expiring money and those two would seem to upgrade where they need the upgrade.

I would be aiming higher though and wouldn’t tie up future firsts for that duo… would be thinking about who is taking Vuc’s place.. Collins can’t stay healthy unfortunately.

I could see this being a fun team

White/Jones
Giddey/Ayo
Matas/Huerter
MP Jr/PWill
Vuc/Claxton
JSmith is the 11th man

Trade the following to BRK for Claxton/MP Jr-Collins, JCarter, DTerry, Noa, Okoro-that's only $45 million (Claxton/MP Jr over $60)
Would have to put PWill in, and have JSmith as the back up 4 (which still kind of works-Matas can play the 4 easily too)

So, Collins/Carter (cut, I assume), DTerry, Noa, Okoro (3rd team?), PWill plus the Port 1st and the Bulls 2026 1st unprotected. BRK throws in one of their young guys to balance the rosters (maybe Jalen Wilson?)-this could work. PWill's deal is bad, but he looks MUCH better this year and has talent

Bulls end up with
White/Jones
Giddey/Ayo
Matas/Huerter
MP Jr/JSmith
Vuc/Claxton
Phillips as 11th man

I think that team could win 50

Yeah, Chicago should push to include Patrick.. But they could just match with Huerter instead if they believe in Patrick actually bouncing back as it looks like he is.. assuming Brooklyn lets Chicago keep an asset to use Huerter vs Patrick.

I do think it’s a really good group, still missing that “best player” but a balanced group at least.

[pipfan]

We’ve done it a few times, but I still like adding both Claxton and MPJ. And Chicago should be able to keep Vuc’s salary out of it if they want to keep him.. Has to be some sort of dialogue about minutes/starting but Chicago has a lot of expiring money and those two would seem to upgrade where they need the upgrade.

I would be aiming higher though and wouldn’t tie up future firsts for that duo… would be thinking about who is taking Vuc’s place.. Collins can’t stay healthy unfortunately.

I could see this being a fun team

White/Jones
Giddey/Ayo
Matas/Huerter
MP Jr/PWill
Vuc/Claxton
JSmith is the 11th man

Trade the following to BRK for Claxton/MP Jr-Collins, JCarter, DTerry, Noa, Okoro-that's only $45 million (Claxton/MP Jr over $60)
Would have to put PWill in, and have JSmith as the back up 4 (which still kind of works-Matas can play the 4 easily too)

So, Collins/Carter (cut, I assume), DTerry, Noa, Okoro (3rd team?), PWill plus the Port 1st and the Bulls 2026 1st unprotected. BRK throws in one of their young guys to balance the rosters (maybe Jalen Wilson?)-this could work. PWill's deal is bad, but he looks MUCH better this year and has talent

Bulls end up with
White/Jones
Giddey/Ayo
Matas/Huerter
MP Jr/JSmith
Vuc/Claxton
Phillips as 11th man

I think that team could win 50

Yeah, Chicago should push to include Patrick.. But they could just match with Huerter instead if they believe in Patrick actually bouncing back as it looks like he is.. assuming Brooklyn lets Chicago keep an asset to use Huerter vs Patrick.

I do think it’s a really good group, still missing that “best player” but a balanced group at least.

Our FO won't tank, which is fine, so might as well get better. I think Porter Jr/Claxton added to our current deep lineup would be fun. Would MUCH rather keep Huerter and resign him-he's been great for us.

BRK could live with PWill's deal, and maybe he turns into a neutral asset in a year or so

[YayBasketball]

Zion at a discount while getting off the Pat-Will contract. Take the upside gamble for playoffs, have the unguaranteed waive option next offseason.

P-Williams + Huerter OR Z.Collins (Bulls choice) + Essengue + POR fake 1st
for
Zion (+ D. Jordan/Hawkins if Bulls want)

Pels turn the page on Zion, start gelling the future core of Fears, Queen, Murphy, and a potential swing on Essengue.

[pipfan]

Zion at a discount while getting off the Pat-Will contract. Take the upside gamble for playoffs, have the unguaranteed waive option next offseason.

P-Williams + Huerter OR Z.Collins (Bulls choice) + Essengue + POR fake 1st
for
Zion (+ D. Jordan/Hawkins if Bulls want)

Pels turn the page on Zion, start gelling the future core of Fears, Queen, Murphy, and a potential swing on Essengue.

Even with Zion's issues (hurt again) I think he'd cost more. If NO would take PWill, I'd offer this for him and hope for the best

PWill/Collins/Noa/Port 1st/2026 unprotected Bulls' 1st (and maybe a 2028 protected 1st-but he's hurt already so maybe not)

Bulls roll with
White/Jones
Giddey/Ayo
Matas/Huerter
Zion/Matas
Vuc/JSmith
Okoro/Phillips deep bench

Would LOVE to add Missi too, but that's a stretch

NO goes with Fears/Jones/Murphy/Noa/Queen/Missi as their future, with picks

[esvl]

I'd keep my powder dry until the Ja/Memphis situation resolves and then see how much the Grizzlies want for JJJ. It will be more than what the O.P. has on offer.

I can tell you right now. It includes the words “offer” and “Godfather”.