<div align="center"></div> The Chicago Bulls incredible season came to an abrupt halt at the hands of the playoff tested Detroit Pistons, less than a week ago. Now after enjoying their best regular season since the departure of Michael Jordan (49-33), as well as winning their first playoff series in the post Jordan era (a 4-0 sweep of the defending champion Miami Heat), the Bulls must decide where do they go from here? The franchise obviously have plenty of questions that have to be addressed this off-season. Including negotiating new contracts for Luol Deng, Ben Gordon, and Andres Nocioni. However, before we get to that the Bulls will be sending EVP-Business Operations Steve Schanwald to New York to represent them in the draft lottery, courtesy of the Eddy Curry trade. The lottery is scheduled to begin on May 22nd, 6:30 CST time. As of this moment the Bulls are expected to land the number nine pick in this years NBA draft, but don’t be surprised if lady luck propels them into a top five selection. The Bulls have been the Cinderella of the NBA lottery the past several years having won it in 1999, while landed among the top three selections three times in the last five years (second in 2002, third in 2004, and second in 2006). Which leads me to what everyone has been waiting for, here is your first introduction to the players your Chicago Bulls will be targeting in this years draft (provided they don’t trade out of the draft completely). [div=50%] <div align="center"><font size=""3"">Bulls First Round Prospects</font></div> [IMGL]http://draftexpress.com/headshots/brandanwright.jpg[/IMGL]1. Brandan Wright Height: 6' 10", Weight: 210 lbs, Class: Freshman (19 years old) Brandan Wright burst onto the seen for the Tarheels during the 2006-07 season after an impressive high school career at Brentwood Academy. Wright’s long wing span, and great mobility (for his size) makes him an excellent weak side defender. His speed also allowed him to blow by his man while playing at the college level, it remains to be seen how it will translate to the professional level. Most of Wright’s stock is based on potential, he has been projected as a top five selection in almost everyone’s mock draft up to this point. Depending how the draft lottery turns out, in addition to personal work outs, he might find himself slipping down the draft board. Right now however, he seems a virtual lock to be selected somewhere among the top five picks, possibly top three. <font size="2">Why would Chicago select Wright?</font> Wright has the potential to be the next big thing at the power forward position. With PJ Brown considering retirement and the Bulls dire need for a inside scorer, Wright would be a logical choice for them should they land high enough in the draft lottery to select him. Wright is a player who understands his strengths and plays to them. He has been described by teammates and coach Roy Williams as “wise beyond his years”. <font size="2">Why would Chicago pass of Wright?</font> The Bulls are on a time table to win a title at this point. With Ben Wallace aging and having only three years left on his contract, the Bulls are trying to win now, not wait for someone to reach his potential. Wright also needs to add a couple pounds to his upper body so he can bang around the low post with NBA big men. Until he does that he cannot provide that inside presence that the Bulls are looking for. [IMGL]http://draftexpress.com/headshots/alhorford.jpg[/IMGL]2. Al Horford Height: 6' 10", Weight: 235 lbs, Class: Junior (20 years old) Al Horford is the first half of the two twin towers that helped lead Florida to two national titles (Noah the second). Unlike Wright, Horford has shown the world what he can do at the college level and has left no question marks as to what kind of player he can/will be on the next level. Horford is a young man with a huge frame, and a nice touch around the basket. He will be an immediate force on the glass at the next level, do to the way his body is built. Similar to Wright, Horford is a young man who understands what he can, and can’t do on the court, so he rarely plays outside his capabilities. Weighing in at a 235 pounds Horford has also shown the ability to absorb contact and still finish. Al’s stock has been all over the place on most mock boards, he has been projected from as high as the third pick to as far down as the seven or eighth. <font size="2">Why would Chicago select Horford?</font> John Paxson loves winners from big programs, since taking over the Bulls, Paxson has drafted and signed several players who together have played in a total of six NCAA Final Fours, won a national championship, and a gold medal. With two national championships to his name, Horford sure fit’s the mold Paxson has been known to look for in a player. Horford would also beef up the front court which has been relatively small in the height/weight department since the departure of Eddy Curry. <font size="2">Why would Chicago pass on Horford?</font> Horford’s size was a huge reason he was so dominant in the post at the college level. Some wonder how he will adjust in the pro’s where the big men are just as strong and big as he is. He is a below average free throw shooter, having him on the court along with Wallace could prove to be double jeopardy at the end of close games. [IMGL]http://draftexpress.com/headshots/yijianlian.jpeg[/IMGL] 3. Yi Jianlian Height: 7' 0", Weight: 230 lbs, Class: N/A (age unknown) Yi Jianlian is being build as the best prospect to come out of China since Yao Ming. At 7’0” Jianlian’s game shares very few similarities to that of Ming’s. Despite his size Yi is a superb ball handler who has a above average perimeter shot, as well as turn around jumper on the base line. Yi can stretch out an opposing teams defense up to 18-20 feet away from the basket. Jianlian could prove to be the highest risk/reward pick of the draft this year. His stock has been the definition of erratic, ranging from 5th overall down to as late as 13th. If I had to put money on it I would expect him to be on the board when the Bulls make their pick. <font size="2">Why would Chicago draft Yi?</font> Yi is as NBA ready as any big man in this years draft. He rarely backs down from playing physically against his opponents. His range/size also makes him a dual threat at the power forward position, a tough match up for anyone in the league. His ability to handle the ball just adds to his skill out on the perimeter. I would not be surprised to see him be one of the front runners for rookie of the year heading into the 2007-08 season. <font size="2">Why would Chicago pass on Yi?</font> There are huge question marks around the league as to exactly how old Yi is, the Chinese government claims he is 22 years of age, but many suspect he is several years older. There are rumors he might even be as old as 25. Yi would not really solve the Bulls need for a post scorer. His game is perimeter oriented. His size would be a welcome addition, but they would have to convince him to play a big mans game instead of hanging around the perimeter all day. <font size="2"><div align="center">Other Prospects</div> </font> 4. Roy Hibbert 5. Tiago Splitter 6. Spencer Hawes 8. Jeff Green 9. Josh McRoberts 10. Joakim Noah [/div] <div align="center"><font size=""3""> Bulls Second Round Prospects</font></div> The Chicago Bulls currently own two selections in this years second round, the 49th and 51st pick overall. If Paxson sees some players on the boards he likes he will keep the picks, but don’t be surprised if the Bulls sell the picks, or trade them on draft night. As of now there are several targets I feel the Bulls might look to take if still on the board. [IMGL]http://draftexpress.com/headshots/glendavis.jpg[/IMGL]1. Glen Davis Height: 6' 8", Weight: 310 lbs, Class: Junior (21 years old) Glen Davis lived through every players worst nightmare this season. Despite having his stock at an all time high, following a Final Four appearances last year, Davis choose to pass on the NBA draft and return to school for his Junior season. A year later, Davis is probably regretting that choice having suffered through an injury whittled under achieving season for both him and his Tigers squad. Davis has seen his stock drop from a first round lock, to a mid second round selection. He would be a good value pick for any team in the mid second round the draft, reminds me of Paul Milisap of the Utah Jazz. <font size="2">Why would Chicago select Davis?</font> Davis is a great person both on and off the court. He has an attitude that has been compared to that of a young Shaquille O’Neal, a guy who can light up any press conference. With his size, he would add some much needed bulk to the front court, and also add yet another winner to the Bulls locker room. Reuniting him with his college buddy Tyrus Thomas, might also help in his transition into the league. <font size="2">Why would Chicago pass of Davis?</font> Glen Davis weight is an immense issue. After having struggled with Michael Sweetney the past couple of years, the Bulls may not be willing to start the process over again with Glen. Davis’ size might also be a liability for the Bulls in the transition game, can he keep up with the rest of the Baby Bulls? [IMGL]http://draftexpress.com/headshots/ronlewis.jpg[/IMGL]2. Ron Lewis Height: 6' 5", Weight: 195 lbs, Class: Junior (22 years old) Ron Lewis really stepped up as a veteran leader for an extremely young Ohio State squad this year. His three point shooting was the main reason his squad was able to survive against teams like Xavier during the NCAA tournament. His below average defense, and lack of a mid range shot have dropped him to a mid to late second round pick. He would be a good value pick for the Bulls. <font size="2">Why would Chicago select Lewis?</font> I’m sorry if I’m beginning to sound redundant, but Lewis is a winner who has paid his dues at the college level. He has the ability to be a good spark off the bench at the NBA level, the Bulls bench took a huge blow during the regular season when Gordon was inserted into the starting lineup. <font size="2">Why would Chicago pass of Lewis?</font> His defensive limitations are a huge turn off for a Scott Skiles coached team. However, having him come off the bench against the opponents second unit might help to mask some of those limitations. He needs to work on his mid range jumper right now, he has a tendency to either shoot a three or drive the ball, rarely does he pull up and hit from mid range. [IMGL]http://draftexpress.com/headshots/taureangreen.jpg[/IMGL]3. Taurean Green Height: 6' 0", Weight: 177 lbs, Class: Junior (21 years old) One of the four Florida Gators in this years draft, Green is the expected by most to be the last of the four Gators to come off the board. His physical limitations are a concern for most teams, but his leadership skills are undeniable. I see him as one of those guys that teams will be kicking themselves in the back for passing on in a couple of years. Chris Duhon has only one year left on his current deal. Green would be a nice insurance policy. <font size="2">Why would Chicago select Green?</font> Green is a guy can shoot the ball lights out from the perimeter, and knock down free throws like they are nothing. He has shown the ability in college to step his game up to another level when his team needs him, and also play with a toughness that coaches look for in young players. During the second round the draft, more so than the first, teams look for value in their picks not so much need. So adding a player of his capabilities and resume could only help the Bulls. <font size="2">Why would Chicago pass of Green?</font> The Bulls currently have Kirk Hinrich, Chris Duhon, and Ben Gordon in the back court, all of which are under 6’4”. Would they be willing to add yet another undersized guard to the rotation? Personally I feel that the Bulls will aim for value as opposed to need should they keep the second round picks this year. So I don’t feel that will be a problem. <font size="2"><div align="center">Other Prospects</div> </font> 4. Aaron Afflalo 5. Herbert Hill 6. Kyle Visser 7. Sean Williams 8. Trey Johnson 9.Jermareo Davidson 10. Demetris Nichlos
<div class="quote_poster">I-Miss-MJ Wrote</div><div class="quote_post">Nice post, gotta laugh at the unknown age of Yi Jianlian Isn't Chris Duhon a free agent as well?</div> I was under the same impression as you when I started writing this article, but then before I posted it I checked hoopshype, and according to them Du is signed through 2007-08 at $3,248,000.
That's good news about Duhon. Nice write up and great contribution to the forums all around. We have to discuss further plans in PM that we've been over before to continue the building trend we've all set here. We have a lot of great members.
Bulls to trade pick for Amare? <div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">If I were the Bulls and I got the No. 1 pick, I'd try to trade for Stoudemire. And my guess is with Stoudemire averaging about $15 million for the next four years, the Suns would strongly consider making a move to ease the financial burden and maybe the locker-room tension. The Bulls have less than a 2 percent chance of landing the top pick, though, so it's hardly a likely scenario.</div> Read More... It's Sam Smith so take it for what its worth.
I want Camby. He's on the block and he's making an even 8 million for the next 2 seasons and then a little bit less at 7,650,000 in the 09/10 season. They need to clear cap room and they need a defensive PG. Draft Pick/Duhon/?something else maybe?
I wouldn't want Camby on the roster, because he is not really a dominant post option, and has suffered through numerous injuries over the past couple of years. Sure he is a great defender, but isn't that what we have Wallace for? This year was the first time he played in 70 games over the course of the last three years.
Im just going on blind faith. the draft really doesnt interest me past the first 5 picks. Greg oden please. durant please god. amen
Good read, Blur. Even though, according to ESPN, the Bulls are one of Noah's most likely destinations, I love the McRoberts over Noah pick. The kid's not worth half of the hype around him. <div class="quote_poster">I-Miss-MJ Wrote</div><div class="quote_post">Amare is no hope and from what I hear they might try and trade Marion.</div> I think the Bulls' best chance of getting Amare or Marion would actually be to get the #2 pick. Wouldn't he Durant make a lot more sense in Phoenix's system than Oden? Even though Oden's got the potential to be one of the next great big men, and I personally think he will, he's still not in the greatest shape at this point. He'd just get lost in an up-tempo offense, whereas Durant would thrive. Anyway, I think it'd be hard to deal with Phoenix in general, because they've got a lot of leverage as a team that's consistently dominated their division in the regular season, so if the Bulls were to get that top pick, I think two more realistic goals would be Garnett and J. O'Neal, who are on teams that stand to gain more by investing in a blue chip draft prospect.
Several interesting scenarios to think about... <ul> [*]Randolph will be traded this summer, with Aldridge and now Oden on the roster, the Blazers have no need for him. He has serious character issues, but he is an inside player who could come at a bargain. Bulls will probably show interest. [*]I think we should try and work out a trade with Atlanta, there major need is a point guard, and taking Conley (the best point in the draft) at number three would not be a good value pick. So a swap of first round picks could make sense for us. They could take Law at number 12 though so we will have to see what happens. [/list] <ul> [*]There is going to be a quality big man on the board come the ninth pick. The Hawks most likely won't take a big man since they just got Shelden Williams last year. So assuming they take a guard and Oden and Durant go one/two. That leaves six picks between us and Wright/Horford/Yi. Its likely the Bobcats will take a swing man with Wallace's pending free agent status, and with guys like Brewer and Wright on the board it is a high possibility we will have a shot at drafting one of the three big men I previously named. [/list] <ul> [*]Both Dirk and Andre Iguodala were selected number nine overall in their respective drafts. Meanwhile, Kobe, Pierce, and several others went even later than that in the lottery. So there is going to be a future all star on the board. The question is will we take him? [/list]
I know this is just like me 2 say it but isnt it kind of weird they talked about Tim Duncan and David Robinson all b4 the lottery took place and now its LaMarcus Aldridge and Greg Oden lol. Conspiracy or wut lol. Also y is it over the past 10-12 years that 6'11 big men that the league says will change the league go 2 western conference teams they seem 2 get the #1 pick 2 get them lol.
As of right now the way it's looking I'm hoping we end up with Hibbert. But that may change once the workouts go.
PTI apparently had the rumor of Garnett to Phoenix, Amare to Chicago and I don't know who from us to Minni.
