Now, after three seasons with the Chicago Bulls, the two-time All-Star recently admitted that he’d like to last to play “one last year in Orlando.”

“Of course, yeah,” Vucevic told the Sixth Man Show. “That’s something that I would love to do. We’ll see when that is possible, if that’s realistic and how it all works out. If anything, at least get one last year in Orlando. I think it’s only right it happens. So, we’ll see.”

NIKOLA. VUCEVIC. Massive shot!@NikolaVucevic | @NBCSBulls pic.twitter.com/CMRd8S5rnf

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) January 3, 2023

Vucevic averaged 17.6 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game on 49.9 percent shooting from the field and 35.3 percent from beyond the arc and made his first All-Star Game in 2019 after putting up 20.8 points and 12.0 rebounds per game on 51.8 percent shooting from the field. This year, Vucevic is doing what he can to help Chicago make their second straight postseason appearance.

Vooch down the lane!@NikolaVucevic | @NBCSChicago pic.twitter.com/1ysAhWXLvm

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) December 19, 2022

The Bulls (19-22) are set to play the Wizards on Wednesday, then the Thunder (18-23) on Friday.

The post Nikola Vucevic Says He’d Like ‘One Last Year in Orlando’ appeared first on SLAM.

If the Bulls make Zach LaVine available before the trade deadline, rival NBA executives are keeping an eye on the Knicks, Lakers, Mavericks, and Heat as potential suitors.

More on players who can be moved after January 15 with @YossiGozlan on @hoopshype. https://t.co/kN2RBmIy5I

— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) January 5, 2023

Each team has assets, connections, or an ideal player they’d like LaVine to play with if they can acquire him.

The Knicks have endless draft capital they could trade, LaVine is signed with Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul, and LaVine played college ball at UCLA, so joining the Lakers is a possibility. Dallas can only rely on Luka Doncic so much, and pairing him with another All-Star like LaVine could yield fantastic results. According to Scotto, the Mavs don’t want to trade a first-round pick unless they think they’re trading for a championship-caliber player.

Miami is Miami, and they can include reigning Sixth Man of the Year winner Tyler Herro in any package they offer.

However, this is all contingent on Chicago’s willingness to part ways with LaVine. The Bulls (17-21) are in 10th place and squarely in the fight for a play-in tournament spot.

The post REPORT: Knicks, Lakers, Mavericks, and Heat Listed as Potential Zach LaVine Suitors appeared first on SLAM.

DeRozan has been Chicago’s best and most consistent star this year, averaging 25.9 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game on 50.8 percent shooting from the field. He’s also set to play one more season on the three-year 81.9 million deal he signed when the Spurs traded him to the Bulls on a sign-and-trade move.

Natural bucket getter.@DeMar_DeRozan | @NBCSChicago pic.twitter.com/YZEgWuKFy7

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) December 21, 2022

The Bulls have two options when it comes to trying to retain a high-caliber player like DeRozan, improve and extend him or let him walk if they can’t win this season or the next. It’ll be interesting to see how the three-time Alll-NBA selection and the Bulls respond to reports of dysfunction in the locker room surrounding DeRozan and fellow All-Star Zach LaVine.

Chicago will look to get back on track when they take on the Knicks on Friday. In order for that to happen, the finger-pointing and lack of accountability will have to be solved so that the Bulls can maximize their potential over the next two seasons.

The post REPORT: DeMar DeRozan Could Ask to Get Out of Chicago appeared first on SLAM.

The downplay continued at home Wednesday night against the Knicks when Jalen Brunson made Alex Caruso hit the floor and knock down the dagger that sealed the Knicks their fifth straight win.

The efforts defensively down the stretch may seem like the glaring weakness of the Bulls, but it isn’t just that part. Instead, the problems are at the start of their matchups, where Caruso believes the team isn’t putting a significant emphasis on making the right play.

“We have to do a better job paying attention to details earlier in the game,” said Caruso after their loss to the Knicks, per Sports Illustrated. “Some nights, we’re not there for 48 minutes, and then it’s a coin flip at the end.”

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Caruso’s reasoning is based on the Bulls’ struggles to score points in the first two quarters. Chicago averages 56.1 points in the first half of games, which is tied for the seventh worst in the League. It doesn’t end there as they give up the second most three-pointers made to their opponents in the first half (7.4) and the third highest field goal percentage to their opponent (49.2).

“We just don’t have the margin for error,” Bulls head coach Billy Donovan said after the loss Wednesday night. “We’ve got to be really disciplined in a lot of specific areas.”

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Even their star players were slumped through the 24 minutes against the Knicks. Had it not been for his six free throws made, DeMar DeRozan would have ended up with two points off 16.7 percent shooting from the field (1-6). Although Zach LaVine opened the bout against the Hawks with nine points (4-6 from the field), he struggled to take care of the ball ending up with five first-half turnovers.

Though the tandem of DeRozan and LaVine pick up the slack in the second half of games, winning recipes don’t come off playing from behind. Caruso demands the group starts focusing on the little but large keys to victories, like communicating or finding the better shot.

Hence they don’t find that formula; the ship will continue to sink for a team that was once thought of as ‘championship-caliber’ last season.

“Sometimes it’s been ball-screen coverage or weakside coverage,” Caruso said. “I think it goes to show how hard it is to win in pro sports. Obviously, it’s something we’ve got to get better at.”

The post Alex Caruso Believes Bulls Need to Focus On the Details Early in Games appeared first on SLAM.

Drafted in the first round of the 2009 NBA Draft, Gibson remained with the Bulls for 8 years. While he may not have put up all-star statistics in Chicago, averaging 9.4 points and 6.4 rebounds, his value and legacy to the franchise are palpable. 

Gibson enjoyed special moments in the United Center, playing alongside all-time Bulls greats Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah. The 37-year-old was a consistent contributor during the Bulls’ 62-win and conference finals season in 2011-12 and during the 2013-14 season when he was runner-up for Most Improved Player (averaging 13 points and 6.8 rebounds).

Hard-working and loyal, Gibson was a steady supporter, a confidante, and a respected leader in the Bulls’ locker room. One of the most beloved players by coaches, teammates, and fans, Chicago never fails to make Gibson feels special during his “homecoming” games.

“The love stays the same. The love gets better and better every time”, Gibson said Wednesday after losing 111-115 in Chicago, per MSN. 

Despite the loss, Gibson had a special feeling being back in United Center while Bulls fans gave him love.

The vet returns to Chicago on February 26th.

The post Taj Gibson On ‘the Love’ He Gets From Chicago Bulls Fans appeared first on SLAM.

Donovan had two years remaining on the original four-year deal he signed in 2020. The Bulls extended him to an undisclosed amount of years after he guided Chicago to the playoffs for the first time in four years as the sixth seed. They ultimately dropped a five-game series to the Milwaukee Bucks in the first round of the postseason. The Bulls have an 86-88 record, with Donovan leading the way from the bench.

Donovan came to Chicago after he parted ways with the Oklahoma City Thunder in September 2020. Billy Donovan led Chicago to a nine-win improvement in 2020-21, followed by a 46-36 finish in Donovan’s second season, a 15-win jump from his first season. This season, the Bulls (9-11) have won three of their last four games against Boston, Milwaukee, and Utah.

Donovan went 243-157 record in his five seasons as the head coach of the Thunder (2015-2020), reaching the Western Conference Finals in his rookie year. He came to the NBA after winning two national championships as the head coach of the Joakim Noah and Al Horford-led Florida Gators.

Donovan, 57, had a 243-157 record in his five seasons as Thunder head coach (2015-20), reaching the Western Conference finals in his first year in Oklahoma City. Donovan was a two-time national championship head coach at the University of Florida.

The post REPORT: Chicago Signed Billy Donovan to Extension Before the 2022-23 Season appeared first on SLAM.

In January of last season, the team reached the mountain top of the Eastern Conference, receiving MVP-caliber play from DeMar DeRozan while Ball showcased his two-way ability as a perimeter defender and facilitator, making the right reads to put his teammates in prime scoring position.

The former second-overall pick was on a mission to lead the Bulls franchise back to title contention, averaging the second-highest point average of his career (13.0), the highest steal rate (1.8), and the best three-point shooting accuracy (42.3) of his career.

"What's it like playing with Lonzo Ball?"

DeMar's smile says it all. pic.twitter.com/SS2Xy7jwDC

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) November 16, 2021

The fundamentals were on full display, and the team looked on track to make as deep of a playoff run as they did in 2011. However, Ball suffered a meniscus tear in his left knee that forced him out for the rest of the season, and it hit the brakes on the momentum they had built up early on, exiting the 2022 playoffs in the first round against the Milwaukee Bucks.

With Zach LaVine, Nikola Vucevic, and DeRozan on the floor, the team has started the new season 8-11, good for 12th place in the East. The slow start isn’t what was expected from the Bulls but team insider Sam Smith shared an update about a possible return for Ball, who may now be considered the solution to all the team’s woes.

“The general word around the Bulls is he might be able to play in January, maybe by the All-Star break,” Smith said. “That would be wonderful, though personally, without any information or “insider” scoops from sources which may or may not know, I’m not counting on him this season.”

Lonzo Ball can do it ALL.

Some of @ZO2_'s best plays so far: pic.twitter.com/YmabRoEl2K

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) October 27, 2021

Head coach Billy Donovan knows there are missing pieces to the puzzle, but some of his talents have taken on the challenge to improve at their position.

The Bulls could use the floor general presence of Ball to alleviate the ball-handling duties of one-on-one scorers like LaVine and DeRozan while front-court players like Patrick Williams. and Vucevic can catch quick interior passes from Ball. A starting 5 with an unselfish point guard is the general recipe for success, and the Bulls desperately need it.

The post REPORT: Lonzo Ball Probable to Return By All-Star Break appeared first on SLAM.

Williams is averaging 5.7 points and 2.0 rebounds per game through three starts on 33.3 percent shooting from the field and 25.0 percent from three. His teammates and coaches have his back despite his struggles to get re-acclimated. 

“Stick with it,” Williams said per NBC Sports, after the team’s morning shootaround ahead of Boston’s trip to Chicago. “They (coaches and teammates) know, obviously, I want to play well, and I want them to play well, and they want to play well for themselves as well. But just can’t get too down when you don’t play well. Just reminding, that was what, game three? Of at least 82. Obviously, we want to play past 82. But that was game three of 82.” 

Williams will have plenty of chances to improve his play, and he’s using that fact to help give him perspective. 

“They kind of know already how I think about myself and my performances, so they really don’t have to say too much. I’ll ask them questions, of course, of what they think I can do better. But I already have answers and they just kind of assure that.”

The Bulls play the Celtics on Monday at 8 PM EST. 

The post ‘Stick With It’: How Patrick Williams Plans to Overcome Slow Start appeared first on SLAM.

LaVine told reporters he wasn’t experiencing specific pain or soreness in the knee and described his absence the same way the Bulls did, injury “management.” The injury hasn’t sparked concerns in LaVine, especially after they decided to re-sign the former UCLA Bruin.

“I just want to make sure I’m safe with bringing myself back in and managing it the way it is,” LaVine said, per the Chicago Tribune. “Just going forward, I want to make sure I’m 100% at the end of the season.”

Zach LaVine (left knee management) is OUT for tonight’s season opener in Miami. pic.twitter.com/U6njQJ833h

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) October 19, 2022

The Bulls haven’t announced LaVine’s availability in a road game against the Washington Wizards or their home opener against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Sources: Zach LaVine may also miss Friday’s game vs. Wizards, with likelihood the two-time All-Star makes his season debut in Saturday’s home opener vs. Cleveland. https://t.co/YdRRrgua5y

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 19, 2022

However, Shams Charania of The Athletic reported that LaVine would miss Chicago’s contest against Washington. Furthermore, Chicago said that there’s no timeline or goal date to determine what his availability will be going forward.

“I wish I had a crystal ball to look into the future. I really do,” LaVine said. “It’d be great if I could figure that out. I’d look up some lottery ticket numbers if I could do that.”

The post REPORT: Zach LaVine Ruled Out for the First Two Games of the Season appeared first on SLAM.

When Caruso sat down with NBC Sports to talk about the role, he highlighted how being a two-way stud has made him a fan-favorite in Chicago, a blue-collar city that loves players that work hard and do the gritty underrated work on the court. A description that applies heavily to the Bald Mamba.

“That’s Chicago, though, right?” People put their hard hat on and go to work every day. Rain, sleet or snow, they’re showing up and doing their job.” Caruso said.

“That’s kind of the same mentality I’ve had to have to make it to the NBA and now to stick around. I’m not planning on changing that because that’s really what separates getting to the league and staying in the league — the work. A lot of times, guys come in, and they make it and relax a little bit. You don’t maximize your opportunity. For me, I’m just trying to see how long I can play basketball for, and a lot of that has to do with how hard you’re willing to work.”

Caruso also revealed that one of his personal goals is to make an All-Defensive team. Caruso thinks it’s possible that he would’ve been named to an All-Defensive team, but he got hit with “the injury bug and didn’t get consistent minutes the second half of the season.” One thing he does know is that he’s tough to matchup with, confidently stating that he thinks opposing players “know they’re going to have to work that night.”

When asked about his love for the less glamorous end of the court, Caruso credited his dad, a former player, and coach, with helping him. He also revealed that after he worked Texas A&M games as a child, they used to talk about the game and the other team played while listening to a talk show featuring an Aggie play-by-play announcer and a member of the coaching staff.

“I still did all that. I just always had a knack for defense,” Caruso said. “I had pretty good anticipation. I’m a smart player. In high school, my senior year, I averaged like 4.5 steals a game. I would just start jumping passing lanes. We were a super-aggressive defense. I went from that to kind of honing it in college and then professionally learning how to play. It’s always just been an easy way for me to get on the court. It’s kind of in my DNA.”

Caruso also touched on the relationship he’s formed with LeBron James. The King has been one of the main advocates for Caruso and made it clear that he’s confident in the Bald Mamba’s ability to hoop at a high level. When Caruso was asked about the respect Bron has for him, he said that James helped him “reach new levels of my game” and instilled a high level of confidence in Caruso too.

Caruso also said that he’s “learned so much” from James, including having a strong work ethic, on the court, in the weight room, before practice, after practice. According to Caruso, James just “shows up and plays every night. He’s out there as the best player, No. 1 on the scouting report. and he’s going hard.”

“He helped me reach new levels of my game that I maybe didn’t have the confidence to reach at a certain point in my career. He enabled me to get on the court because we had such good chemistry. I was able to play off him and understand the game. I learned so much just from watching him. Work ethic. Getting in the gym. Working on your body. Making sure you recover. Putting the work in pre-practice. He shows up and plays every night. He’s out there as the best player, No. 1 on the scouting report. And he’s going hard.

Above all, Caruso marveled at the relationship he built with James, and that the “chemistry we formed was validating.” Caruso also believes that James is one of the smartest, if not THE smartest players in the NBA.

“If he’s not the smartest, he’s probably 1A or 1B with Rondo for smartest players that I’ve ever played with. Just as far as the encyclopedia of knowledge they have on players, coaches, sets coaches like to run, how teams like to play, tendencies. All that stuff is stuff I’ve taken and I’m like, ‘All right, I know this guy loves to go left. I know this guy isn’t going to try to get to the rim. He’s going to stay in the midrange so I can stay pushed up on him. This guy is super aggressive; you can backdoor him.’ It’s part of my growth too.”

The post Alex Caruso Speaks On His Defense-First Role and His Bond With LeBron James appeared first on SLAM.

Of course, 15 seasons of professional basketball can take a toll on anyone’s body, and Dragić hinted that the 2022-23 campaign could be his last year at it.

“It’s a lot of mileage that’s on my body,” Dragić per Sports Illustrated. “After every NBA season, I play for my national team for 12, 13 years. In those years, I didn’t have a break. Now, it’s a little bit different. But I’m still here. I’m still enjoying basketball. That’s the most important thing.”

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Dragić made a name for himself as a member of the Phoenix Suns. His breakout season came during the 2013-2014 season when he averaged 20.3 points, 5.8 assists, and 1.4 steals per game on 50.5 percent shooting from the field and 40.8 percent from beyond the arc. Dragic capped off that tough season by winning the 2014 Most Improved Player award and an All-NBA third-team selection.

That same year, Dragić struck big in free agency after signing a five-year $90 million deal with the Miami Heat to play with all-time great Dwyane Wade. He’d spend the next seven years in Miami, where he would be selected as an All-Star in 2018 and was the starting point guard for the 2020 Heat team that made the NBA Finals after beating Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jayson Tatum.

“I never thought I was going to be in the League for 15 years,” said Dragić. “But I always worked hard. I always tried to be better the next season. I feel like because of that; I’m still here.”

If the Dragon retires after this season, he will start his farewell tour against his old Miami Heat team on October 19 at FTX Arena.

The post Goran Dragić Contemplating Retirement Heading into 15th Season appeared first on SLAM.

This team looked destined for glory once more.

However, in a game against the Golden State Warriors on Jan. 14, Ball would suffer a catastrophic injury to his left knee that would keep him sidelined for the rest of the 2021-2022 NBA season.

Concerning news for Bulls fans came from Ball himself as he made it clear his injury still bothers him, and it may be possible he’ll be sidelined to start the season. Ball told reporters he is unable to run or jump as of yet, and it’ll be up to his arthroscopic debridement on Sept. 28 that will determine whether he’s eligible to play.

“This is something I’ve never dealt with,” Ball said. “Even the doctors are surprised a little bit.”

Ball’s contribution is a must-have in order to find success for this Bulls team. Doubts will continue to rise if Ball is unable to return, but proper conditioning may see him reach his elite status once more.

“That’d be the worst-case scenario,” said Ball when asked if there’s a possibility he’ll miss this entire upcoming season. “I’m at a point now where I can’t get back out there until I’m comfortable playing and can actually play. When that day comes, I’ll have the jersey back on.”

The post ‘Even the Doctors Are Surprised a Little’ About Lonzo Ball’s Nagging Knee Injury appeared first on SLAM.

The procedure looks to remove the broken down cartilage and tissues that would help him get back to form. The Bulls announced Ball’s surgery nine days after multiple reports stated he would miss the beginning of the season due to injury. Chicago will further evaluate him in 4-6 weeks to see if there’s any progress.

Ball has dealt with several nagging injuries since his arrival to the League, but none look more complicated than this one on his left knee. On Jan. 20, the Bulls’ starting point guard was found to have a bone bruise and small meniscus tear on his left knee after a blowout loss to the Golden State Warriors, resulting in the surgery he had during last season.

Chicago had hoped that Ball would be able to make progress in the four-month span between his diagnosis and the playoffs. However, Ball struggled to put weight on the knee, resulting in extra rehabilitation and a season-ending announcement before the series against the Milwaukee Bucks.

The gentleman’s sweep in favor of Milwaukee led to many headlines around Chicago as to what could have happened if the Bulls could’ve deployed Ball’s elite playmaking and defending. He questioned that himself as well and knew that his play would generate at least some good end to the Bulls, as he said in a press conference.

“Every time you watch the game, you feel like you can leave an impact on the game. I feel like my shooting could’ve for sure helped. And also obviously defensively versus the guys they have on the other side that are All-Stars.”

When Ball’s recovery timeline is up, the Bulls and their medical staff will determine the best course of action. Before he was injured, Chicago was a top-two seed in the Eastern Conference, without him they finished with the sixth-best record in the East.

The post Bulls Point Guard Lonzo Ball To Have A Arthroscopic Debridement On Left Knee appeared first on SLAM.

The pivotal match-up would define the Bull’s season, but not as Chicago hoped. In the first quarter, Zach Lavine left the game with a knee injury that bothered him for the rest of the season. Lonzo Ball followed him, exiting with a knee injury in the fourth, and the Warriors left United Center with a decisive 138-96 victory.

While his injury seemed minor then, Ball’s left knee injury developed into a long and arduous recovery process. The UCLA product was ruled out of the Bulls’ game against the Celtics the following day, officially diagnosed with a bone bruise and small meniscus tear on Jan. 20. On Jan. 28, he underwent surgery with a recovery timeline of six to eight weeks.

Ball’s initial recovery timeline post-surgery was eight weeks. It has now been eight months. Ball suffered a couple of setbacks due to his knee not responding to his recovery program from his January surgery. Ball’s ramp-up process to make a return in the playoffs was cut off due to him suffering some knee discomfort in his knee during his rehab process.

Lonzo Ball’s elite defense and high-IQ, high-pace style played a critical role in Chicago’s 27-13 start to the 2021-22 season. Ball shot a career-high 42.3 percent from beyond the arc, ranked in the top 10 in the League in transition assists, and according to DeMar DeRozan, brought “swagger and excitement to the team.” With Ball at point guard, the Bulls ranked sixth in points per game off turnovers and connected on 38.6 percent threes. 

Vice President Arturas Karnisovas stated it clearly: “We missed [Ball] greatly this year. We missed his size, we missed him pushing the break”.

Lacking Ball’s defensive presence and his creation of easy transition buckets, the Bulls fell to 26th in points per game off turnovers, 22nd in the League in three-point percentage, and went 19-23 without Ball in the lineup. 

While his precise return timeline remains unclear, Ball is expected to miss the start of the regular season. The Bulls begin their push back to the top of the East on Oct. 19 against the Heat.

The post Lonzo Ball Expected to Miss the Start of the Season appeared first on SLAM.

His accent to the upper NBA echelon started when he was named the Most Improved Player in 2017. Since then, his accolades include winning back-to-back MVPs, winning a world title in 2021, and becoming Finals MVP after a historic 50-point effort to close out the Finals in Game 6. He’s a six-time All-Star, six-time All-NBA selection, five-time All-Defensive team pick, and won the DPOY in 2015.

Now that he’s reached his promise to make the Bucks a championship franchise, there’s a possibility that he could leave Milwaukee once his current contract is up in 2026. The Greek Freak threw out there’s potential for him to don No. 34 for the Bulls. During an appearance on The Sports Zone on Fox 32 Chicago, Antetokounmpo admitted he’s open to the idea because of the history of the Bulls and Michael Jordan.

“I think anybody who is asked that question and would say no, he’s a liar. It’s a team that won multiple championships; it’s the team with one of the greatest, if not the greatest, players to ever play this game played for. It’s a no-brainer; everybody would love to play for Chicago. Down the line, you never know. Maybe I play for Chicago, but right now, I am committed to Milwaukee.” 

Giannis on playing for the #Bulls someday tonight on The Sports Zone on Fox 32 Chicago.@fox32news @foxkickoff @LouCanellis @CassieCarlsonTV @Giannis_An34 pic.twitter.com/mgvvAXwMej

— Fox 32 Chicago Sports (@foxkickoff) August 15, 2022

Antetokounmpo’s loyalty to the Bucks is unquestionable at this point. Especially after he signed a long-term extension with the franchise before they won a title, it’s a move that some don’t expect during a time of unprecedented player empowerment and movement. However, the Greek Freak is known to embrace that grind of winning a title with the team that drafted you.

After the Bucks won the 2021 Finals, Antetokounmpo spoke about how his path was “the hard way to do it.” Antetokounmpo, later on, said that “the next challenge might not be” in Milwaukee, but knowing how much he loves the Bucks and how loyal he’s been to the franchise, it’s hard to think of Antetokounmpo in another jersey.

The post Giannis Antetokounmpo Open to Playing for Chicago ‘Down the Line’ appeared first on SLAM.

The tournament will be another chance for the Slovenian countryman to team up and for Dragic to take a backseat to one of the most dominant basketball forces in the world in Luka Legend, who just led the Dallas Mavericks to the Western Conference Finals last year. Dragic admitted in a recent interview that he knows Dragic will take up most of the sunlight on the team.

At 36-years-old, Dragic is seemingly okay with that matter after leading Slovenia to the Eurobasket title and winning MVP honors.

“In my opinion, I will play a little less minutes, it will not be at that level,” Dragic told Eurohoops.net. “I don’t know how much I played, 36 minutes per game? Everything will depend on how I feel. The role will definitely be different. I was Batman, but now I’ll be Robin.”

Dragic will be playing for the Bulls next year after playing for the Nets last season. The Dragon has starred as a starter and backup throughout his 17 seasons.

Doncic has emerged as a star since his first day in the League. He averaged 28.4 points, 9.1 rebounds. and 8.7 assists per game and led to Mavs to their first conference finals appearance since 2011. Dallas ultimately lost to the eventual champion Golden State Warriors in five games.

The post Goran Dragic Calls EuroBasket Teammate Luka Doncic the ‘Batman’ to His ‘Robin’ appeared first on SLAM.

DeRozan was most recently seen rocking a pair of Kobe 6s when he teamed up with LeBron James at Drew League two weeks ago. The five-time All-Star, who played in Kobes throughout high school and college, became the most active representative of the Kobe signature line after Bryant retired in 2016.

Nike and the Bryant estate could not come to terms on a new contract following Kobe’s passing but reached an agreement in March of this year, according to ESPN’s Nick DePaula. DeRozan has regularly debuted the latest Kobe models and consistently rocked older models from his collection since his rookie season.

“For me personally, he meant everything to me basketball-wise,” DeRozan told reporters when speaking about Bryant’s influence in January. “That’s well documented, a mentor of mine, a friend of mine, someone that taught me a big part of the game and motivated me to have the mentality that I have today.”

The 32-year-old earned a new deal with Nike after leading the Bulls to the playoffs for the first time in five years and averaging a career-high 27.9 points per game last season. While no specifics regarding DeRozan’s role with Nike have been announced, we can expect the Compton native to continue rocking Beans for the foreseeable future.

The post REPORT: DeMar DeRozan Signs New Deal to Remain With Nike appeared first on SLAM.

Since the turn of 2010s, future Hall-of-Famer LeBron James was able to leverage his status as the best player in the NBA and the threat of him leaving to make sure the Cavs and Lakers front office did all they could to build a title threat around him. From there, superstars like Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and Anthony Davis were able to negotiate trades or sign with other teams so they could win a ring or be in a better position to do so from behind the scenes.

Well into the 2020s, Durant has used his status as another surefire HOFer to demand a trade out of Brooklyn just three seasons after first signing with the team in 2019.

The reasoning behind the trade demand comes after the Nets have failed to win a title with a core of Durant, Kyrie Irving, and James Harden. Harden himself demanded a trade out of Brooklyn due to the uncertainty around Irving’s vaccination status and wanting to reunite with 76ers president Daryl Morey. Irving’s complex extension negotiations also played a part in Durant wanting out of playing with the Nets.

Durant reportedly wanted to play with the Suns or Heat, two teams with title aspirations that have fostered great team cultures within their locker room. Irving’s preferred destinations were the Clippers, Lakers, Heat, and Dallas, amongst others.

The concerns about the rise of trade demand may be overstated, but it’s nothing new for the most prominent names. Even guys who played for one franchise their whole career (i.e., Kobe Bryant and Tim Duncan) threatened to leave via free agency or trade. Guys like Damian Lillard and Bradley Beal could be the next iteration of one-team players.

For the middle class of players like Draymond Green, he applauded players for treating themselves like “businesses” during a recent episode of his podcast. His voice has been joined by Alex Caruso, who is happy to see that “players are finally treating this like the teams and organizations have for so many years.”

“(The players) finally are realizing the business side of this,” Caruso said. “Like, ‘oh okay, I have leverage, I am an asset; let me make this work to the best of my ability because if the organization or the team has a chance to upgrade, they’re going to upgrade.'”

On tomorrow's episode of the show, @jj_redick and @ACFresh21 discuss the recent trends of trade requests by big time players like Kevin Durant with several years left on his contract with the Nets.

Watch the full conversation: https://t.co/Xd3GSeqJrM pic.twitter.com/ydZYxDXJIn

— TheOldMan&TheThree (@OldManAndThree) July 15, 2022

Caruso saying that probably stems from the fact that fans expect players to be loyal to teams but not necessarily the other way around. Think of the recent example of what happened between the Celtics and Isiah Thomas after IT4 suffered a career-altering hip surgery on top of losing his sister to a car accident while leading the C’s to a conference finals appearance.

Or the divorce between DeMar DeRozan and the Raptors. On the other end, though, teams have made sure to do what’s best for players after a long tenure with their first teams. Think Kevin Garnett to the Celtics, or what happened just a few weeks ago when the Spurs traded All-Star guard Dejounte Murray to the Hawks so that he could play on a playoff team instead of wilt away on the lottery-bound Spurs.

Like I said earlier, ‘you’re a victim of circumstance.'” Caruso added. “If you’re in the League and you have this type of wealth and income, it’s a different type of thing than if you’re sitting at home reading about this guy tryna get from $40 mil to $50 mil.

“I understand that that’s a real thing, but you have to sit back and look at it and just think, there’s so many years, you’ve heard horror stories of guys finding out on Twitter or finding out on TV that they got traded. I think it’s finally just to the point where players are just like, ‘well alright, well I’m gonna do the same thing.'”

The tensions between who has power between players and team owners will always be present. When you go through a decade of unprecedented growth that coincides with player empowerment, the players union and its constituents will be less likely to wanna give that up.

The CBA between the owners and players can be negotiated as soon as December. Negotiations will likely get contentious as players and team owners will battle about the player empowerment era, particularly around the issue of players demanding trades with multiple years left on their contract, skipping games, and a plethora of other labor issues.

The post Alex Caruso Speaks on Prominent Players Requesting Trade Despite Big Contracts appeared first on SLAM.

NBA All-Star Zach LaVine has agreed to a five-year, $215.2 million maximum contract to return to the Chicago Bulls, with a player option in Year 5, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul told @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2022

LaVine’s contract contains a player option for the last year of the deal.

LaVine has emerged as a two-time All-Star during his tenure in Chicago. LaVine arrived from Minnesota after the Bulls and Timberwolves exchanged LaVine for Jimmy Butler. Along with the arrival of DeMar DeRozan last summer, the Bulls returned to the postseason for the first time since 2017, when they lost in the first round of the playoffs to the Boston Celtics. Chicago’s five-game loss to the Bucks marked LaVine’s first trip to the playoffs.

LaVine has averaged at least 23.7 points per game in the past four seasons while being a dynamic three-level scorer and passer while dishing at least four assists per game. Last season. LaVine put up 24.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game on 47.6 shooting from the field and 38.9 percent from deep.

LaVine will be entering the 2022-23 season, coming off an offseason knee surgery.

The post REPORT: Zach LaVine Agrees to Five-Year Max Contract appeared first on SLAM.

2021-22 All-NBA teams:

First: Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Luka Doncic, Devin Booker, Jayson Tatum

Second: Joel Embiid, Ja Morant, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, DeMar DeRozan

Third: Karl-Anthony Towns, LeBron James, Chris Paul, Trae Young, Pascal Siakam

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) May 25, 2022

Although Jokic is the reigning MVP, he wasn’t the leading vote-getter for All-NBA First Team, Antetokounmpo was. The Greek Freak received all 100 votes for one of the forward spots on the First-Team. Jokic and Joel Embiid, who finished as runner-up for the ’21 and ’22 MVP, split votes as the First-Team center. Embiid ended up being named as the center for the Second-Team.

Antekounmpo was not only the lone unanimous All-NBA selection this season, but he also became the first player over the last 50 years to be a unanimous selection to the All-NBA First Time in four consecutive seasons, according to ESPN Stats and Information research.

Doncic became the fourth player in NBA history to earn his third First-Team selection before turning 24-years-old, joining Kevin Durant, Tim Duncan, and Max Zazlofsky. Jokic, Antetokounmpo and Doncic were joined by Jayson Tatum and Devin Booker. According to the NBA, this is the first time since 1954-55 that the First-Team comprises players at least 27-years-old or younger.

Booker and Tatum earned the First-Team nod for the first time in their career. This is the first overall All-NBA selection for Booker and Tatum’s second nod. Tatum is the first Celtic to make All-NBA First-Team since Kevin Garnett did it in 2008. He’s also the youngest Celtic to earn an All-NBA First-Team selection since Larry Bird in 1980.

The Second-Team is rounded out by Stephen Curry, Ja Morant, DeMar DeRozan, and Durant. Chris Paul, Trae Young, LeBron James, Pascal Siakam, and Karl-Anthony Towns filled out the Third-Team. James picked up his record 18th All-NBA nod, placing him ahead of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kobe Bryant, and Tim Duncan for most All-NBA picks, and became the first player in League history to make the All-NBA in his 19th+ season.

Paul is the first guard since Bryant to make an All-NBA team in his 17th+ season.

The post Nikola Jokic Headlines 2021-2022 All-NBA Teams appeared first on SLAM.

The NBA announced the decision for NBA Paris 2023 on Tuesday, with the NBA Paris game scheduled for January 19.

The #NBAParis game next season will feature the @chicagobulls and @DetroitPistons at Accor Arena

It will mark the @NBA's first game in France since '91. pic.twitter.com/skcFV4PEDa

— Sports Business Journal (@SBJ) May 24, 2022

“It is a great honor to bring Chicago Bulls basketball back to Paris for The NBA Paris Game 2023,” said Chicago Bulls Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations Artūras Karnišovas.

“I know how special this will be for our players, our organization, and our international fanbase. We look forward to representing Chicago overseas and are grateful for the opportunity to do so.”

I think I made a wrong turn, but if I start swimming now I might make it there by January https://t.co/UPIkHFGjvz pic.twitter.com/eQu8ek6V6z

— Benny (@bennythebull) May 24, 2022

The international contest will be played in Accor Arena in Paris. The last time the arena hosted a regular-season League game was a Hornets-Bucks game on January 24, 2020.

This is the third time the Bulls will play a game in Paris in franchise history. Chicago played two preseason games back in 1997. The Pistons will be making their Paris debut in 2023; they have played regular-season games in international waters before, playing in London in 2013 and Mexico City in 2019.

“The Detroit Pistons organization is excited to take on the Chicago Bulls and play our first-ever game in France. Playing a regular-season game in Paris will be a great experience for our players and coaches, and we look forward to showcasing Detroit Basketball to an international audience.” Pistons general manager Troy Weaver said.

The 2023 NBA Paris game will mark the League’s 12th game in Paris since 1991.

The post NBA Announce Bulls and Pistons Will Play in 2023 NBA Paris Game appeared first on SLAM.

On Windhorst’s Hoop Collective podcast, he revealed that teams around the League had gotten the impression that LaVine was “off the market.”

However, there isn’t a guarantee about him staying in the Windy City with the Bulls. According to Windhorst, the Trail Blazers have “popped up” as a potential landing spot for the two-time All-Star. While there is no indication that LaVine intends to leave, Windhorst reported that LaVine’s recent comments made people around the League alter their expectations.

“I plan to enjoy free agency,” he said per ESPN. “We’re going to have to experience A through Z without making any fast decisions. I think that’s something me and [agent Rich Paul] are going to go through and experience.”

The Blazers are in the market for a star like LaVine, with a projected $48.4 million in salary-cap space after Portland traded CJ McCollum, Larry Nance Jr., Robert Covington, and Norman Powell ahead of the trade deadline. The real question is, will LaVine be worth signing to help build a contender around Damian Lillard. LaVine can reportedly earn as much as $213.3 million over five years with the Bulls. If he leaves, he can $157.4 million over four years.

LaVine has averaged 24.4 points and 4.4 assists on shooting 38.9 percent from beyond the arc in his five seasons with the Bulls. He is also reportedly considering surgery to address a lingering issue with his knee.

The post REPORT: Trail Blazers ‘Pop Up’ As Zach LaVine Landing Spot appeared first on SLAM.

Coach Mike Budenholzer confirmed Middelton would miss Game 1 of the semifinals on Sunday.

“After Game 2, the team knew what the deal was,” Antetokounmpo said per ESPN. “We knew what we had to do. We had to be desperate. We had to go out there and compete at a high level. Pay attention to detail as much as possible. Help one another defensively. We’ve got to do it as a team. It’s not a one-man show or two-man show.

While the Bucks were down a man, the Bulls were down a few too. Zach LaVine (virus protocols) and Alex Caruso (concussion) missed Game 5, allowing Milwaukee to target solely on taking DeMar DeRozan out of his comfort zone, only allowing the USC product to score 11 points on 5-10 shooting from the field.

According to ESPN, DeRozan was double-teamed 27 times in Game 5, the most doubles of a single player in a playoff game in the past three seasons. He faced 24 double-teams in the previous four games combined.

“We threw everything at him,” Budenholzer said. “He’s such a good player, the season he’s had. The ability to make shots, the ability to get to the free-throw line, he’s phenomenal. He saw a lot of people in front of him, around him, just basically always.”

Along with making DeRozan a nonfactor, the defending champs held the Bulls to under 100 points in three out of five games, winning each of their final three games by double-digits. DeRozan attempted to get his teammates involved, but Chicago had an off night, shooting just 7-25 (3-18 on three-pointers) off Deebo’s passes. Overall, the Bulls hit 15-52 treys on Wednesday.

The post Milwaukee Blankets DeMar DeRozan to Advance to Second Round appeared first on SLAM.

Zach LaVine has entered health and Safety protocols, per Bulls PR.

— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) April 26, 2022

The Bulls are down 3-1 to the defending champion Bucks.

LaVine has emerged as a go-to option for the Bulls, averaging 24.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game on 47.6 percent shooting from the field and 38.9 percent from long distance. Through the first round, LaVine has put up 19.3 points per game.

Without LaVine in the lineup, the Bulls will have to rely on DeMar DeRozan and Nikola Vucevic to anchor the Bulls.

The post Zach LaVine in Health and Safety Protocols, Bulls Say appeared first on SLAM.

“It’s nothing they’re doing defensively. Most of the shots I took were wide open… No way in hell I shoot 6-of-25 again.”

DeRozan followed up by saying that defense is going to give them the “opportunity to win” this series and that they need to turn it up.

“Offensively, I guarantee you we won’t shoot like we shot tonight again, but defense gives you an opportunity to win. In the 4th quarter, a couple plays got away from us, but a good learning experience. Gotta keep it up defensively and go to another level.”

The Bulls will look to tie the series in Game 2 on Wednesday.

The post DeMar DeRozan After Game 1 Loss to Bucks: ‘[Gotta] Go To Another Level’ appeared first on SLAM.

The Bucks entered the game having won 17 of their last 18 games against the Bulls. An early 32-16 lead looked promising, but then, scoring troubles, and 14 turnovers in the second half, caused the game to close in.

Giannis Antetokounmpo, who led the team with 27 points, 16 rebounds and two blocks, praised teammate Brook Lopez for his performance, especially late in fourth quarter. When Antetokounmpo picked up his fifth foul during a stretch in which the Bulls cut the deficit to just one point, Lopez scored seven points, along with two boards and a blocked shot.

“Tonight in the fourth quarter he was amazing,” Giannis says, per CBS. “He was able to get to his spots, shoot his floaters, get to the rim, make his free throws. Defensively he was amazing, contesting shots. He’s big for us, he’s big. He had a great game, we need him to keep playing this way, we need him to keep helping the team any way possible. He is a big piece of who we are.”

Lopez finished with 18 points, five rebounds and two blocks as the second leading scorer for the team in Game 1. He also was a force on defense against the Bulls, who shot only 32.3 percent from the field, a season-low, and went 11-of-27 at the rim and 9-23 from mid range.

“We showed resiliency tonight,” Lopez says, per ESPN. “Things didn’t go our way offensively for a lot of the game, and we fought through it and did a good job defensively.”

The Bucks will now get ready to face off against Chicago at home for Game 2 on Wednesday.

The post Giannis Antetokounmpo on Brook Lopez’s Performance in Game 1 against Bulls: ‘He is a Big Piece of Who We Are’ appeared first on SLAM.

There is still a final decision to be made, but there's less and less optimism that Lonzo Ball will return this season, sources tell ESPN. As Billy Donovan said, there's a conversation among the Bulls and Ball's reps in the coming days. https://t.co/24soc5gDpd

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 5, 2022

According to NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski, the setback has left the Bulls feeling “less and less optimism” for a Ball return during the regular season and maybe even the playoffs. A final decision has yet to be made per Woj, but a decision will reportedly be made by the Bulls and Balls reps soon.

Ball averaged 13.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, 5.1 assists, and 1.8 steals per game before injuring his knee. The Bulls (45-33) play the Bucks (48-30) on Tuesday and will not only be playing without Ball but Zach LaVine as well, who will miss the game with his own knee injury.

The post REPORT: Lonzo Ball Suffered a Setback in His Ramp Up Process appeared first on SLAM.

ESPN Sources: Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine (left knee) is likely to be out vs. the Milwaukee Bucks tonight (8 o'clock, ESPN). LaVine has only missed one game since the mid-February All-Star break. Bulls are fifth in East, tied with sixth-place Raptors at 45-33.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 5, 2022

LaVine has missed one game since the All-Star weekend break in February.

LaVine has posted 24.7, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.5 assists in 65 appearances. The Bulls (45-33) are fifth in the East and have an identical record to the Raptors.

The post REPORT: Zach LaVine Ruled Out for Contest Against Bucks appeared first on SLAM.

Lonzo Ball (knee) will restart his ramp-up process, Billy Donovan says.

— Cody Westerlund (@CodyWesterlund) March 31, 2022

The Bulls shut down Ball and his rehab process over the last 10 days after the UCLA product’s knee didn’t respond to his recovery program from a January knee surgery. Donovan said that although Ball is set to resume activity, his ramp-up will be gradual.

“With the amount of time that he had off to let things calm down, we’re not going to go 0-to-60,” Bulls coach Billy Donovan said per ESPN.

Ball hasn’t played since Jan. 14 and only has 10 days and five games to return before the playoffs begin. A return to the lineup during the playoffs instead of the regular season hasn’t been ruled out, nor have the Bulls decided on ruling Ball out for the season. They haven’t told Ball that there isn’t enough time for him to complete his ramp-up. Above all, Ball’s health will determine his status, and the Bulls are still optimistic he will be ready to return.

“[Ball’s] the driver behind a lot of this; he really wants to play,” Donovan said. “He wants to get back to playing. Obviously, he’s also going to be smart in terms of how he’s feeling. He’s going to be realistic, and the doctors are going to put their heads together. Certainly, every day that goes by and time that passes by, we’re moving closer and closer ’til the end of the season.”

In 35 appearances, Ball averaged 13.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists while shooting 42.3 percent from distance on 7.4 attempts per game. Since Ball’s injury, the Bulls are 18th in offensive efficiency and 24th in defensive efficiency, per NBA.com.

“We’d have to see some significant progress that he’s made physically so that we feel good he can go in there and play and contribute and help,” Donovan said. “But I haven’t gotten anything [from team doctors] close to shutting him down or anything like that.”

The post Bulls Announce Lonzo Ball Will Restart His Ramp-Up appeared first on SLAM.

Crawford, who was drafted eighth overall in the 2000 NBA draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers, suited up for nine different teams throughout his career.

After stints with the Bulls, Knicks, and Warriors, Crawford joined the Atlanta Hawks in ’09 where he backed up stars Joe Johnson and Mike Bibby. He averaged 18 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 3.0 assists off the bench that year, leading to him winning his first Sixth Man of the Year award. In addition, he also set an all-time NBA record for most career four-point plays in 2010, surpassing Reggie Miller.

In 2019, Crawford put the perfect cherry on top to his legacy by becoming the oldest player to tally 50-plus points; a record previously held by Michael Jordan. During the game, Crawford shot 60 percent from the field, 7-of-13 from three-point range, and 8-of-9 from the free-throw line.

Throughout his time in the NBA, Crawford has been a prominent figure in the basketball community with his filthy handles and crazy hoop mixtapes over the year. His game has opened the doors for many of the finesse players we see today such as Lou Williams, Immanuel Quickley, and Bones Hyland.

As we’ve said before, a moment of appreciation for all that he’s done for the game.

The post Three-Time NBA Sixth Man of the Year Jamal Crawford Retires from the NBA appeared first on SLAM.

Roster Update: We have assigned Patrick Williams to the @WindyCityBulls. pic.twitter.com/58P7O2mftq

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) March 17, 2022

Williams remained in Chicago to train with the G-League affiliate as the team made its West Coast trip, losing to the Utah Jazz 125-110 on Wednesday night.

“I was optimistic that he would be able to get back before the end of March. He’s moving in that direction, but a lot of it’s going to now depend on how it goes once he does that and what medical feels is an ample amount of time for him to get comfortable actually going into a game,” Donovan said via Julia Poe of the Chicago Tribune.

In October, the second-year forward underwent surgery to repair torn ligaments in his left wrist. After five months away from playing, he received clearance to participate with limited contact last week.

The earliest Williams could make an appearance for the Windy City would be this Sunday against the Westchester Knicks.

The post Patrick Williams Assigned to Windy City Bulls in Anticipation for Regular-Season Return appeared first on SLAM.

Alex Caruso said the bone is healed, he has no limitations but he has soreness with soft tissue that just needs to be strengthened over time. “We’re close,” Caruso said. No target date. Definitely sounds like he needs more contact practices.

— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) March 11, 2022

According to Johnson, the only issue Caruso is dealing with is some soft tissue soreness that needs to be strengthened over time. Although there is no target date for the Bald Mamba to return to the Bulls lineup, he said, “we’re close” to coming back.

In the 28 games Caruso played before he got hurt, the 28-year-old guard averaged 8.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game in 27.7 minutes per game.

The Bulls (40-26) are currently fourth in the Eastern Conference standings and are just three games behind the Heat for the number one seed in the conference playoffs. For now, they are in pursuit of the 76ers and Bucks, who lead the Bulls by one game and 1.5 games in the playoff chase.

The post REPORT: Alex Caruso ‘Close’ to Returning From Fractured Wrist appeared first on SLAM.

DeRozan finished the game with 37 points shooting 71 percent from the field, making it his ninth straight 30-point game, a career-high for the veteran. In addition, this is DeRozan’s eighth consecutive game with at least 35 points on 50 percent shooting extending his record farther past Wilt Chamberlain’s run.

DEMAR IN THE CLUTCH ONCE AGAIN. STOP PLAYING W HIM! (via @NBATV) pic.twitter.com/UFec31CVoT

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) February 25, 2022

“You love it, and you hate it,” DeRozan said. “Of course, you don’t want to be down and have the pressure on yourself to try to pull out a game. But when you’re in those moments, you’ve got to take it on. I love the moments. I love the challenge. I love the opportunity. It’s fun to me.”

KING OF THE FOURTH! @DeMar_DeRozan | #BullsNation pic.twitter.com/tb3YXUDeER

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) February 25, 2022

The Chicago Bulls sit at 39-21 and are back at the top of the Eastern Conference standings at number one. Without veteran guards Lonzo Ball and Alex Caruso, the Bulls have continued to lean on the veteran experience of DeRozan, Nikola Vucevic, and Zach LaVine.

The Bulls will look to extend their winning streak on Saturday against the Grizzlies.

The post DeMar DeRozan On Clutch Moments: ‘You’ve Got to Take It on. I Love the Moments’ appeared first on SLAM.

But it was after making jokes about his Cavaliers teams sending DeMar DeRozan’s Toronto Raptors teams home that he got serious. The 30-year-old forward made it clear that DeRozan’s presence played a significant part in the decision to come to Chicago. During those playoff battles on the court, the two formed a mutual respect built over three years.

Off the court, the two became close friends, a relationship that made Thompson’s decision to come to Chicago easy.

Tristan in the building for the first time.@RealTristan13 | #BullsNation pic.twitter.com/sjCTRFYV0r

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) February 24, 2022

Thompson raised eyebrows by claiming that DeMar DeRozan is a definite MVP candidate, even comparing his shooting to Michael Jordan’s with his midrange accuracy.

“He’s playing out of this world,” Thompson said via the Chicago Tribune. “Right now, he’s the league MVP in my eyes. Flat out. What he’s able to be doing with Zach (LaVine) out and with Zo (Lonzo Ball) out and with AC (Alex Caruso) out and Vooch was out a little bit too, for him to be able to just hold the fort down and keep that ship right — that’s what an MVP does.”

According to NBC Sports Chicago, Thompson believed that a combination of DeMar’s attributes with others could lead to championship aspirations.

“There’s a lot of potential here,” Thompson said, Zach LaVine’s effortless offensive prowess, Lonzo Ball’s status as a “walking triple-double,” DeRozan’s midrange mastery, Vučević’s versatility, Javonte Green’s energy, Coby White’s “firecracker” scoring ability, and on and on.”

“All those pieces are what you need to be one of the last teams dancing. The key is gonna be, can we put it all together.”

The Bulls resume their season Thursday against the Atlanta Hawks.

The post Chicago Bulls Signee Tristan Thompson Calls DeMar DeRozan MVP appeared first on SLAM.

“I think right now we’re the best duo in the NBA. I think we are, personally. Just where we’re at right now, obviously in the standings and the level of play that we’re at. We came into the year with people having different narratives about us and our team, and I think we [proved those wrong]. So I think we’re gonna continue to grow on that and get better.”

The duo combines for 52.7 points per game as the engine of the Chicago Bulls team tied for first place in the Eastern Conference with the Miami Heat at 38-21. When DeRozan was shown LaVine’s comment, the five-time All-Star agreed with his teammate.

“I don’t see why we’re not. You know what I mean?” DeRozan said. “He’s completely right.”

LaVine continued to pour on the praise for the 32-year-old veteran from Compton.

“I’m glad to have another guy that’s been in these situations, these big-time games, where we haven’t been in that before,” LaVine said continuing to praise teammate. “He’s been to the Eastern Conference Finals and been in big moments. His calmness is something that’s always been impressive to me.”

This comment comes not even a week after DeRozan broke a record held by NBA legend Wilt Chamberlain since 1963. When DeRozan scored 38 points on 16-for-27 shooting in a win against the Sacramento Kings last Wednesday, he broke Chamberlain’s record of most consecutive games, scoring 35+ points while shooting better than 50 percent from the field.

At seven games, DeRozan has a chance to extend that record when the Bulls face off against the Atlanta Hawks (28-30) on Thursday.

The post Zach LaVine on Playing With DeMar DeRozan: ‘We’re the Best Duo in the NBA’ appeared first on SLAM.

One notable buyout player is Tristan Thompson, who was released from the Indiana Pacers and will be signing a new deal with the Chicago Bulls.

Although the deal was announced by Pacers coach Rick Carlisle late last week, the Bulls made the deal official in a press release on Saturday. To make room for Thompson, the Bulls subsequently released Alfonzo McKinnie.

While he isn’t necessarily a starting caliber big anymore, Thompson has 11 years of NBA experience. He’s a force in the paint, standing at 6-foot-9 and 254 pounds.

On his career, Thompson has averaged 9.1 points and 8.5 rebounds per contest. This season, he has spent time with the Pacers and Sacramento Kings, producing 6.3 points and 5.3 boards in 34 contests. As the Bulls look to make a deep playoff run, Thompson’s experience could be key as he’s been to the NBA Playoffs five times, logging 83 games (70 starts) of action.

The post Bulls Officially Sign Tristan Thompson, Release Alfonzo McKinnie appeared first on SLAM.

With that in mind, LaVine is set to become a restricted free agent in July. Based on his individual performance and how he’s helped the team, he is set for a huge payday. 

LaVine recently spoke to Yahoo Sports’ Vincent Goodwill, giving insight into his upcoming free agency. He’s looking forward to getting paid what he thinks he has earned during his time in Chicago. 

“I think we all get what we deserve at the level we play at, for our team and around the league. I think I stack up with everybody at that level,” LaVine said. “We’ll let the chips fall. Is [a max contract] the goal? I don’t know if it’s the goal, but I should be getting what I deserve.”

While LaVine hasn’t necessarily made a max contract extension a goal, he certainly believes he is worth that type of deal. Playing at an All-Star level, he’s emerged as one of the best guards in the entire NBA. Alongside new teammate DeMar DeRozan, the Bulls have one of the deadliest offensive duos in the league. 

Right now, LaVine is focused on winning games and taking Chicago to the playoffs. The end goal is a championship, with his free agency situation being something he believes will work itself out when the time comes. 

“That’s why I don’t have to talk about it,” LaVine said. “I’ll go into the offseason, after this year and be very satisfied with what I think I’ll get and I’ll be happy for me and my family.”

With a record of 38-21, the Bulls currently sit at second in the Eastern Conference. With LaVine being a key piece of the roster, it’ll be up to him to ensure they make a deep playoff push. 

The post Zach LaVine Gives Insight Into Upcoming Free Agency with Bulls appeared first on SLAM.

After a 38 point, 16-27 shooting performance in a Bulls 125-118 win over the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday, DeRozan broke Chamberlain’s record as the only player to score 35 points or more while shooting better than 50 percent in seven straight games.

DeMar DeRozan has broken Wilt Chamberlain’s record for most consecutive games with 35+ points on 50% or better shooting. pic.twitter.com/bmHRUg5tf2

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) February 17, 2022

During this historic streak, DeRozan averages 38.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 5.6 assists on 60.7 percent shooting in his last seven games. He also has an overall streak of scoring at least 30 points in eight consecutive games, which is the longest streak by a Chicago player since Michael Jordan in 1996.

The Monster of the Midrange.@NBCSChicago | @DeMar_DeRozan pic.twitter.com/jqQzXlN5q8

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) February 17, 2022

DeMar expressed his gratitude after the game via ESPN.

“Just to be in the record books along with staples of basketball history — [I’m] speechless,” DeRozan said following Wednesday’s game. “As a kid, as a fan of the history of the game, being in the League as long as I’ve been in the League, things like that continue to make me even more humble.

“It’s something I’ll never take for granted. And the crazy thing is, I feel like I missed eight easy shots I normally would have made. I felt like I had a bad shooting night, honestly.”

His scoring tear has not been in vain either. The Bulls are currently on a five-game winning streak, even without Zach LaVine, who had to see a specialist for his troublesome knee.

DeMar DeRozan gets a chance to extend the streak Wednesday against the Atlanta Hawks. A win guarantees the Bulls at least a share of the number one seed going into the All-Star break.

The post DeMar DeRozan Breaks a Scoring Record Held By Wilt Chamberlain appeared first on SLAM.

The Bulls announced on Wednesday that after Zach LaVine‘s results from a visit with a knee specialist in Los Angeles went ‘very well.’

Billy Donovan says Zach LaVine’s visit with a specialist in LA went “very well.”

He says the Bulls expect to have him back after the All-Star break: “The doctors don’t feel like he’s in any harms way of continuing to play”

— Jamal Collier (@JamalCollier) February 16, 2022

LaVine went to Los Angeles after reportedly experiencing several weeks of discomfort in his left knee. According to NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski, the Bulls have some concerns about LaVine’s knee. No structural damage was revealed in a January MRI, but Coach Billy Donovan said that LaVine’s knee still swells up after games.

“He swells after games sometimes, and sometimes he doesn’t,” Donovan said via ESPN. “So I think getting to the bottom of some of that stuff, you know, they’ve obviously done imaging. He is cleared to play. There is discomfort there. He doesn’t feel great. It’s really kind of just depends.”

So with the happy news that “the doctors don’t feel like he’s in any harm’s way of continuing to play,” LaVine hopes to play in his second All-Star game. If he decides to shut it down ahead of the All-Star break, it could clear the way for Jaylen Brown to become a replacement for the All-Star game, his second career selection.

The post Zach LaVine Visit With Knee Specialist Went ‘Very Well’ appeared first on SLAM.

As such, LaVine will be traveling to Los Angeles this week to see a specialist for a further evaluation of his knee. For the Bulls, a healthy LaVine will be crucial in the postseason as they have championship aspirations. 

Even with all of this going on, LaVine is still planning to participate in All-Star Weekend, which will take place later this week, starting on Feb. 18. He earned the honor of participant in the All-Star game by averaging 24.6 points, 4.9 rebounds and 4.5 assists on the season thus far. 

LaVine has emerged as one of the premier guards in the NBA at this point.

The post REPORT: Bulls’ Zach LaVine to see Knee Specialist This Week appeared first on SLAM.

The NBA is suspending Milwaukee’s Grayson Allen for one game over the flagrant 2 foul on Chicago’s Alex Caruso that caused a fractured wrist, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) January 23, 2022

The hard foul Allen committed on Caruso caused the 27-year-old Bulls guard to suffer a fractured wrist that will cause him to miss six-eight weeks following surgery. Both Caruso and Coach Billy Donovan have not held back on how they feel about the foul after their 94-90 loss, where the Bald Mamba scored seven points, secured eight rebounds, and dished out four assists in 24 minutes.

“Dude just grabbed me out of the air,” Caruso said per ESPN. “It’s kind of bulls—. I don’t know what else you can do about it. I’m just glad that I didn’t have any major scary injuries right away.”

Donovan didn’t think Allen fouled Caruso with any malicious intent, but he didn’t argue with the referees’ decision to assess Alen a flagrant foul 2 either.

“For Alex to be in the air and for [Allen] to take him down like that, he could’ve ended his career,” Donovan said after the game on Friday. “He has a history of this. That to me was really — it was really dangerous. I hope the league takes a hard look at something like that because that could have really, really seriously hurt him.”

Grayson Allen draws a flagrant 2 for a HARD foul on Alex Caruso pic.twitter.com/NjCJEzo7zu

— Bulls Talk (@NBCSBulls) January 22, 2022

Allen contributed five points, three boards, and one steal before being ejected for the first time in his career. Allen also got called for his first flagrant foul of the season; it’s the second such foul in his career since he was removed from a Summer League game in 2019 after committing two flagrant fouls.

This was the first time Allen has been called for a flagrant foul this season and the second such foul in his career — although he was tossed from a Summer League game in 2019 after committing two flagrant fouls within seconds of each other. Allen cleared up what happened in the aftermath on his Discord channel after being seen laughing on the bench.

“Also to this point. I stood at half court watching till he got up till see if he was okay. Then when I was back by our bench a teammate made a joke and I laughed. I wasn’t laughing at the foul,” Allen said in his defense. “It was very unfortunate how it played out. I jumped to block it with my left and as I’m spinning went to grab the ball with my right hand not throw him down. It was a really hard fall and I’m glad he’s okay. If I could do the play over again knowing he’d fall like that I wouldn’t make the play.”

The next time Allen can play will be when Milwaukee (30-19) plays the New York Knicks (23-24) on Friday.

The post REPORT: Grayson Allen Suspended Over Flagrant 2 Foul on Alex Caruso appeared first on SLAM.

ESPN reports that Ball is expected to travel California soon to have the arthroscopic procedure to repair the meniscus in his knee.

Chicago Bulls point guard Lonzo Ball has suffered a small meniscus tear in his left knee, per Shams Charania of The Athletic.

Lonzo Ball has been diagnosed with a small meniscus tear in his left knee and is evaluating treatment options, per @ShamsCharania. pic.twitter.com/mfjRUZZGXy

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) January 20, 2022

The Bulls reportedly hope Ball can monitor his knee and play through the injury. The franchise hasn’t ruled out Ball going under the knife either; if the 24-year-old point guard elects to undergo surgery, the procedure will sideline him for a four-six-week period, according to ESPN NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski.

Ball has missed three straight games due to his knee injury. The former UCLA superstar received arthroscopic surgery on that same knee in 2018.

In August, Ball joined the Bulls (28-15) on a four-year, $85 million contract after a sign-and-trade that sent Tomáš Satoranský, Garrett Temple, and a second-round pick to the New Orleans Pelicans. He is averaging 13 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists for the season.

The post Bulls Announce Lonzo Ball Will Undergo Surgery appeared first on SLAM.

DeMar DeRozan became the first player in NBA history to knock down game-winning 3 point buzzer-beaters in consecutive games. The first buzzer-beater was on Friday after shaking off a rough shooting night to nail a fadeaway three-pointer off the wrong foot as time expired.

DEROZAN CALLS GAME pic.twitter.com/CXMrUSk9N3

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) December 31, 2021

In their following game Saturday against the Wizards, DeRozan responded to a late triple from Kyle Kuzma with his second consecutive buzzer-beater, leading to the Bulls escaping Capital One Arena with a 120-119 win, extending their win-streak to seven games.

DEMAR DEROZAN.
FOR THE WIN.
AGAIN.

He’s hit back-to-back game-winning triples for the @chicagobulls. This is unreal.#TissotBuzzerBeater #ThisIsYourTime pic.twitter.com/6SuVbhLptq

— NBA (@NBA) January 2, 2022

“Just to hit a buzzer-beater, in general, is amazing, especially when you do it on the road,” DeRozan said postgame via ESPN. “I don’t know. I don’t know if I’m dreaming. If it’s real right now.”

“It’s just an honor to be trusted in the fourth quarter. Whether things are going good or going bad, my team, teammates always leaned on me to be that calm presence to bring us home. I always bring that calm presence as much as I can in the fourth quarter, letting guys understand, as long we got time we got a chance.”

DeRozan has a chance to extend this streak of buzzer-beaters against the Orlando Magic on Monday.

The post DeMar DeRozan Reflects on His Buzzer Beater Moments Making History appeared first on SLAM.

The issues with positive cases have caused the Bulls to depend on the hardship exemption adding three players recently to the roster. Those three players are South Bay Lakers G-League player Mac McClung, Alfonzo McKinnie, and Stanley Johnson per The Athletic’s Sham Charania.

The Chicago Bulls are signing guard Mac McClung to a 10-day hardship deal, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. McClung went to training camp with the Lakers and has played for their G League South Bay affiliate.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) December 21, 2021

The undrafted McClung will join the Bulls after averaging 19.5 points and 6.2 assists per game, three rebounds, and a steal in 13 games in the G-League. His strong shooting from the field (47.5 percent), from behind the arc (39.7 percent), and the free-throw line (83 percent) has made him one of the better young guards in the G-League this season.

McClung was in the Lakers training camp during the preseason but was cut and immediately assigned to the team’s affiliate. This will be his first chance to play the first regular-season game of his career.

The 6’2 guard was a social media smash in high school due to his high-flying dunks. He attended Georgetown University for two seasons, where Patrick Ewing coached him. McClung then transferred to Texas Tech before making himself eligible for the NBA Draft.

The post Chicago Bulls Sign Former South Bay Lakers Mac McClung a 10-Day Deal appeared first on SLAM.

Our game against the Lakers on Sunday (originally scheduled for 2:30 pm CT) will now be at 7 pm CT. pic.twitter.com/j2NsD1VkYW

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) December 14, 2021

The scheduling problems are due to ten Chicago players, some coaches, and media announcers currently being in the NBA’s health and safety protocols. With so many players unavailable, the Bulls used their hardship exemption to sign Stanley Johnson. However, they still face the possibility of not having the minimum amount of players (eight) to compete.

Reports from NBC Sports Chicago’s K.C. Johnson claim DeMar DeRozan, Coby White, Derrick Jones Jr., and Javonte Green could return for Sunday’s game pending the mandatory two negative tests in a 24 hour period.

By Sunday, White, Green, DeRozan (Dec. 15), Thomas (Dec. 17), and Jones Jr. (Dec. 18) will have passed 10 days in protocols, but they have more steps to take before becoming eligible to play. Zach LaVine, Stanley Johnson, Alize Johnson, Troy Brown Jr., Ayo Dosunmu, and Matt Thomas are out.

The Los Angeles Lakers have COVID issues with Talen Horton-Tucker, Dwight Howard, and Malik Monk recently being placed into protocols.

The post NBA Delays the Los Angeles Lakers-Chicago Bulls Game Due to COVID-19 appeared first on SLAM.

The news comes after Woj reported that Alize Johnson entered health and safety protocols after testing positive for COVID-19 early Monday.

The NBA has postponed the Bulls-Pistons game on Tuesday and Bulls-Raptors on Thursday, source tells ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) December 13, 2021

Last season, the League postponed 32 games due to virus related issues. The Bulls have 10 players in COVID-19 protocols, including their two leading scorers Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan. Chicago was expected to have at least eight healthy players for Tuesday if nobody else entered health and safety protocols.

At least four players, Javonte Green, Coby White, Derozan, and Matt Thomas are reportedly expected to clear protocols and come back this week. LaVine, Derrick Jones Jr., Stanley Johnson, Ayo Dosunmu, Troy Brown Jr. and Johnson are expected to be cleared next week.

Nikola Vucevic recently returned to action after his bout with COVID-19. Chicago has reportedly been testing players and coaches multiple times per day amid the team-wide outbreak. The Bulls are reportedly vaccinted and have not dealt with any severe symptoms.

The Bulls return to play the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday but will have some time between Tuesday and Sunday to clear protocols and regain their fully healthy roster.

The post NBA Postpones the Chicago Bulls’ Next Two Games appeared first on SLAM.

Nine Bulls players in protocols now, including, as @KCJHoop reports, Troy Brown. https://t.co/WY73OmPcAd

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) December 12, 2021

This is the second time LaVine has entered protocols after entering April 15. He returned May 6 against the Hornets after missing 11 games and played until the Bulls were eliminated from a play-in spot in mid-may.

The Bulls have nine players in COVID-19 protocols as of Sunday but still have the required nine players to avoid a COVID-related game postponement. One of their hardship replacement players, Stanley Johnson, will need to be replaced after entering protocols along with rookie guard Ayo Dosunmo.

Lavine is posting 26.0 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game on 49.0 percent (39.1 percent from distance) shooting from the field. The Bulls are 17-10 heading into their Tuesday matchup with the Pistons (4-21).

The post REPORT: Zach LaVine Enters Health and Safety Protocols appeared first on SLAM.

The Chicago Bulls are signing veteran G/F Alfonzo McKinnie via hardship exemption, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. McKinnie has played for NBA G League’s Mexico City Capitanes this season, averaging 24.1 PPG and 43.3 percent from 3-point range.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) December 10, 2021

With Derrick Jones Jr., DeMar DeRozan, Coby White, Matt Thomas and Javonte Green all in the League’s health and safety protocols, the Bulls first elected to use their hardship exemption on Wednesday to sign forward Stanley Johnson from the South Bay Lakers.

From the far West side of Chicago, McKinnie is getting his shot with his hometown team after the 6-foot-8 forward averaged 24.1 points per game on 43.3 percent from three with the Mexico City Capitanes this season.

McKinnie brings 24 games of playoff experience between the Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Lakers to the Bulls roster alongside a springy and athletic player in transition.

McKinnie’s first game with the Bulls will be Saturday night against the Miami Heat.

The post Chicago Bulls Use Hardship Exemption to Sign Alfonso McKinnie From G League appeared first on SLAM.

Bulls are facing an outbreak on team with Jones joining teammates DeMar DeRozan, Coby White, Matt Thomas and Javonte Green in protocols. https://t.co/QxIXu5ApTv

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) December 9, 2021

Woj further reported that just like his teammates, Jones will be out for at least 10 days and can break out of the protocol following consecutive negative PCR tests within a 24 hour period.

Not only are the Bulls missing five players due to virus protocols, but the team is also without Patrick Williams and Alex Caruso who are out with wrist and hamstring injuries respectively. The injury bug that’s bitten Chicago allowed the Bulls to sign a 16th player through the League’s hardship extension, which the franchise used to sign Stanley Johnson to a 10-day contract.

In addition to the five players sidelined by the outbreak, the Bulls are missing forward Patrick Williams (wrist) and guard Alex Caruso (hamstring), which made the team eligible to sign a 16th player through the NBA’s hardship exception.

The Bulls are not in jeopardy of having games postponed with at least 11 healthy players available to play, including Caruso who Coach Billy Donovan believes could return by Saturday before the Lakers come into town to play Chicago on Sunday.

“I have not heard anything along those lines,” Donovan said Monday on the possibility of games being postponed per ESPN. “I think the biggest question that comes up is if you have something that runs through a team and you have multiple players that are not able to compete, is there enough players for the team to go out there and function.

“I do think the most important thing for our league is the health and safety of all the players. I think our guys have done a good job of following and doing what we’re asked to be done from the league and from the medical side. It’s just, I think, this time of year. There’s certainly been a spike in this, but I have not heard anything as it relates to them going into a situation of shutting down the league for a period of time. I have not heard that.”

The post REPORT: Fears of a Covid Outbreak Within Chicago Bulls appeared first on SLAM.

The Chicago Bulls are signing forward Stanley Johnson out of NBA G League’s South Bay Lakers via hardship exemption, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Johnson went to training camp with the Bulls.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) December 8, 2021

Johnson was one of the Bulls’ final cuts in training camp just before the season, with averages of 3.2 points and 2.5 rebounds in four preseason games. Soon after, he was signed by the South Bay Lakers and had some success averaging 15.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 2.2 steals in six games. He also shot 40.5 percent from the field and 28.6 from the 3 point line.

BREAKING: The @chicagobulls have called-up Stanley Johnson from the South Bay Lakers.

15.3 PTS | 6.7 REB | 2.2 AST | 2.2 STL pic.twitter.com/hF80gjmOGp

— G League TV (@GLeagueTV) December 8, 2021

The Bulls currently have five players unavailable due to being in NBA’s Health and Safety protocols or injured, which made them eligible to make a move to add Johnson to the roster.

Matt Thomas (health and safety protocol)
DeMar DeRozan (health and safety protocol)
Coby White (health and safety protocol)
Javonte Green (health and safety protocol)
Patrick Williams out with an injury.

The Chicago Bulls currently have 11 players available for tonight’s game.

— Daniel Greenberg (@ChiSportUpdates) December 8, 2021

Stanley Johnson was the No. 8 pick in the 2015 draft by the Pistons, where he played over three seasons before being traded to the New Orleans Pelicans in the 2018-19 season. His most recent stint in the NBA was with the Toronto Raptors for two seasons.

The post Chicago Bulls Use Their Hardship Exemption to Sign Stanley Johnson appeared first on SLAM.

Congrats to Nikola Jokic of the @nuggets for moving up to 8th on the all-time TRIPLE-DOUBLES list! #NBA75 pic.twitter.com/UDqElBOphs

— NBA (@NBA) December 7, 2021

Joker finished the Nuggets’ 109-97 loss to the Bulls with 17 points, 12 rebounds, and 15 assists.

It took Jokic 471 games to post 60 triple-double, versus the 897 it took for Larry Legend to reach 59. He is currently just two triple-doubles behind James Harden, who surpassed Bird in November and has since posted two more for a total of 62.

The post Nikola Jokic Surpasses Larry Bird to Become Eighth on All-Time Triple-Double List appeared first on SLAM.

Young was brought over to San Antonio in the DeMar DeRozan deal from Chicago. As the oldest player on the team, he is asked to be the veteran presence on a rebuilding team. But it’s the lack of minutes that he has been getting recently that has him frustrated a topic he brought up recently.

“Right now, this situation is not ideal for me,” Young said on The Alex Kennedy Podcast. “I’ve never been in a situation where I’ve had to settle for 4 and 6 minutes a game.” 

“It’s super tough. It’s very tough and frustrating at times,” Young said. “But at the end of the day, I understand where this franchise is going, and I understand what’s happening — the young guys have to play. Whatever happens, happens. It’s just a matter of trusting in my faith and trusting in my craft, and trusting in the time that I put into the game each and every day. I’m a 15-year veteran, and I’m still one of the last to leave the gym, and I’m still showing up early, putting in a lot of time and a lot of work.” 

Young is averaging a career-low 15.6 minutes per game, with minutes going to younger players such as Keldon Johnson, Keita Bates-Diop, Devin Vassell, Lonnie Walker IV, and Drew Eubanks. His streak of starting at least one game in every year of his career could be in jeopardy.

The veteran has made the most of his playing time when he’s gotten on the floor this season. He’s currently averaging 7.4 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per contest while shooting 59.6 percent from the field after being a part-time starter with the Bulls averaging 12.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 1.1 steals last season and winning the NBA’s Hustle Award.

The post Thaddeus Young Voices Frustration Over Lack of Playing Time appeared first on SLAM.

Bulls guard Coby White has tested positive for coronavirus, coach Billy Donovan says.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) December 1, 2021

The 21-year-old guard was initially cleared to play on November 11 after working himself back from shoulder surgery on a torn labrum that took place in June. After missing the first 13 games of the season, the third-year guard out of North Carolina is averaging 6.1 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.3 assists on 34.9 percent shooting from the field through nine appearances.

Given the terms of the League’s health and safety protocols, White will miss at least 10 days unless he yields two negative tests within a 24-hour window.

The process for White to become acclimated with his new teammates and game plans has been rocky at best, resulting in a lack of punch in the box score. However, the arrivals of Lonzo Ball as well as Alex Caruso will bear the weight losing White will have on the lineup while rookie guard Ayo Dosunmu will receive a significant bump in his minutes on the court.

Per ESPN, Donovan said White will not be traveling with the team when they fly to New York to take on the 11-10 Knicks Thursday.

The post Billy Donovan Says Bulls Guard Coby White Has Tested Positive for COVID-19 appeared first on SLAM.

The following has been announced by the NBA. pic.twitter.com/SDE7TcwtmE

— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) December 1, 2021

According to reports from ESPN League insider Adrian Wojnarowski., The League started its investigation back on August 7 after the start of the free agency on August 2. They conducted numerous interviews with team executives and player agents and gathered electronic messaging of the front office’s executives of Chicago, New Orleans, Miami, and Toronto over the past four months.

Both Miami Heat and the Chicago Bulls have since made a statement on the League’s news.

The Miami Heat said, “While we disagree, we accept the league’s decision.”

The Bulls released a statement, saying, “We are glad this process has concluded and look forward to the rest of our season.

Despite the news, both the Chicago Bulls (14-8) and Miami Heat (13-8) are off to a great start to the 2021-22 season due to the play of their offseason signings.

Miami negotiated a three-year, $85 million deal with Lowry in the sign-and-trade with the Toronto Raptors that sent guard Goran Dragic and forward Precious Achiuwa to the Raptors. At the same time, the Bulls traded veterans Garrett Temple and Tomas Satoransky to the Pelicans in a sign-and-trade deal for Ball, who signed a four-year, $85 million contract with the Bulls.

The post Chicago Bulls, Miami Heat Forfeit Second Round Draft Pick appeared first on SLAM.

So far this season, DeRozan has been a vital piece in the team’s 10-4 start to the season, as he’s averaging 26.9 points per game along with 5.4 rebounds, 4.1 assists and shooting 51 percent from the field. As of right now, he’s ranked third in the League in scoring so far this season.

According to Jamal Collier of ESPN, DeRozan is aware of the naysayers calling him “washed” and questioning his capability:

“I can go down the list of just being counted out, being looked over,” DeRozan says, per ESPN. “So many chips that’s on my shoulder that I carry. And just wanting to be a winner and wanting to enjoy this ride. We can’t play this game forever, so I want to get as much as I can out of it.”

At 32-years-old, DeRozan doesn’t view his age as an “issue” or a “limit” to how he can continue to contribute to the Bulls:

“I never looked at age as being an issue,” DeRozan added. “I never looked at it. People put the age limit on everything, and I never did. The way I worked, the way I take care of my body, the way I prepare, I knew what I was capable of doing. I just took different roads the last couple years of playing basketball, trying to do the right thing, figuring it out.

“This time, just knowing my ability was always there, I never lost confidence. I never thought I couldn’t be who I was before. Chicago allowed me to completely be myself.”

The post DeMar DeRozan: ‘I Can Go Down the List of Just Being Counted Out, Being Looked Over’ appeared first on SLAM.

Feeling the urge to show up and show out in his hometown, DeRozan went on to score 35 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists, while shooting 10 for 11 from the free-throw line. Zach LaVine added to the fire also, adding 29 points and 8 rebounds alongside Caruso’s 7 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assist,s and 3 steals in his first start as a Bull. Because of the thrilling performances put on display by Alex Caruso in his time as a Laker, it’s safe to say there will always be love sent his way from the city of LA.

The Chicago Bulls will face the Los Angeles Lakers (8-6) Monday at 9:30pm CT.

The post Chicago Bulls End LA Clippers Seven-Game Winning Streak appeared first on SLAM.

Billy Donovan said Coby White is cleared to make his season debut vs. the Lakers.

— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) November 15, 2021

White has been working himself back from offseason shoulder surgery that he received back in June after suffering the injury in basketball-related activities away from the team.

Through his first two years in the League, White has averaged 14.2 points per game while shooting 35.7 percent from beyond the arc. With Ball filling the starting guard position, White will turn to the team’s scoring spark-plug off the bench.

“It’s probably going to take him a little bit of time to get into a rhythm considering he’s been out for so long, head coach Billy Donavan said via K.C. Johnson. “He missed the whole training camp, the whole summer. He hasn’t really played necessarily other than a few occasions of 5-on-5. We’re just going to have to see as it goes.”

Donovan said there is no plan for a minutes restriction at the moment, but that could change come game time. Either way, the Bulls will be receiving a needed production boost from their bench through the rest of the season if White plays up to expectations.

The post Coby White Cleared to Return to Bulls Against Lakers Tonight appeared first on SLAM.

According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Vucevic has tested positive for COVID-19 and has entered the NBA’s health and safety protocols.

Wojnarowski goes on to report that the Bulls expect Vucevic to miss “multiple games” due to the positive test.

Vucevic has two ways to return to the court; he either has to quarantine for 10 consecutive days or return two negative PCR tests within 24 hours.

Despite the Bulls opening up the season strong, Vucevic hasn’t put up the offensive numbers fans have become accustomed to over the years. In 11 games this year, Vucevic is averaging 13.6 points and 10.9 rebounds per game.

Vucevic is currently in his second season with the Bulls after being traded at the deadline last season from the Orlando Magic.

The Bulls are currently sat tied with the Washington Wizards atop the Eastern Conference with a record of 8-3. The Bulls play the Warriors Friday on the road.

The post REPORT: Nikola Vucevic to Miss ‘Multiple Games’ Due to NBA Health and Safety Protocols appeared first on SLAM.

“Going into it, I really didn’t know what to expect and I really didn’t hear much from any team—including the Lakers—leading up to 6 p.m., and then they called, and the Lakers made their offer. It wasn’t an offer I was going to accept because I was going to be able to get considerably more money from another team,” he said.

He adds: “I got on the phone with AK [Bulls GM Artūras Karnišovas] and Billy [Donovan], and the way they were just talking about how they wanted to play and how they saw me as a player, I thought they hit the nail on the head. I thought everything they said, I was like ‘I think that’s accurate, I think that’s what I bring to the table, I think that’s how I can help the team win, I think that’s the direction this team wants to go.’ I thought there was a need for the stuff that I had.”

Our guy Alex Caruso (@ACFresh21) on what exactly happened In free agency that led him to The Chicago Bulls.

Full episode w/ Alex drops tomorrow. Subscribe here: https://t.co/3wGZq3EszW pic.twitter.com/U7EqsAgz9q

— TheOldMan&TheThree (@OldManAndThree) November 10, 2021

According to Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report, it was a matter of finances:

“With a team payroll of roughly $156.2 million, the Lakers project to pay about $43.7 million in luxury taxes. Caruso, who had hoped to stay with Los Angeles, is earning $8.6 million this season in Chicago.

The Lakers could have matched the four-year, $37 million contract that he signed with the Bulls, but their payroll would have ballooned to about $233 million with tax.”

In August, Alex Caruso was questioned about his feelings of not being re-signed with the Lakers via Yahoo! Sports.

“I have a great relationship with the Laker community just because my path and progression as a player is something they got to witness first-hand. I’ll always have a special relationship with that fan base. I know a lot of people were upset that I didn’t get to stick around and try and run it back for a couple more years,” Caruso said then. “As far as the front office and free agency, that stuff just kind of happens. It’s the business of basketball. You can’t always keep who you want or else there’d be a whole bunch of good teams with a whole bunch of good players and nobody else would win. I’m happy that I fell to Chicago.”

The post Alex Caruso Elaborates on Why He Signed With Bulls Over Lakers Offer appeared first on SLAM.

One example of this is the production of Nikola Vucevic, who is actually playing more minutes than he ever has, but is taking less shots and scoring less points. 

To Vucevic, that’s completely fine as long as it’s for the best of the team.

“It’s just the way we play that they have the ball. I think as a big man that’s usually how it is; it’s just the rough life of a big man,” said Vucevic recently. “The guards have more of the ball. It’s fine.”

Having more talent around than usual is never a bad thing, as it’s resulted in the Bulls having a really solid start to the season.

“There’s more talent and more guys who can score. So it’s a little different offensively for me,” Vucevic said. “So I just try to do different things, passing, defensively rebounding; there are many ways you can impact the game, screening and doing other things that I can to help the team.”

Through nine games this season, Vucevic is averaging 13.4 points and 10.8 rebounds in 34.4 minutes per contest. He’s one of the most important players on the Bulls, regardless of what his numbers look like.

The post Nikola Vucevic is Fine with Smaller Offensive Role appeared first on SLAM.

The team came together following Celtics guard Marcus Smarts’ comments in a postgame interview where he stated that Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum need to pass the ball more (per ESPN). Smart’s comments came after Boston’s 128-114 upset against the Bulls, where they were outscored 39-11 in the fourth quarter at home.

“The last few days, we’ve just been focused on Orlando,” Brown says, per ESPN. “That was the goal: come out, try to get a win. That was it. Team meeting — just an opportunity to talk as a group, get some communication going in, and move forward.”

“At the end of the day, we’ve been playing basketball together for a long time, all of us, especially our core group. So when it comes down to it, it’s all about trying to find ways to win, and that’s what the conversation was about, et cetera. The last two days, we’ve just been focused on Orlando, and now we’re focused on Miami.”

While both Tatum (14 points, six rebounds, three assists) and Brown’s (team-high 28 points, five boards, three assists) assist’s averages have dropped this season, Brown acknowledges that there are areas he and his teammate could improve in:

“I can do a lot of things better,” Brown says, per ESPN. “Try to find ways to get guys going, talking to Jayson, trying to find ways to get him going. Just making our teammates better. I think that’s part of being a leader and things like that. I still have a lot of growth to do that I’m actively working on. But that’s my challenge, and I’m focusing my energy on that. Just continuing to watch film and get better and see how I can make my teammates better.”

The Celtics look to continue their winning ways Thursday against the Miami Heat (6-1).

The post Jaylen Shares His Thoughts On Celtics’ Team Meeting, Says Team is ‘Focused on Miami’ appeared first on SLAM.

The Sixers now say Tobias Harris is out due to the NBA’s Health and Safety Protocols. Furkan Korkmaz is starting in his place. Philly is already without Joel Embiid, who is resting tonight, in addition to Ben Simmons.

— Tim Bontemps (@TimBontemps) November 1, 2021

Harris, who missed Monday’s 113-103 win against the Portland Trail Blazers, will be given a timetable for his return after 12-24 hours per ESPN Insider Adrian Wojnarowski’s report.

So far through seven games this season, Harris is currently the second-leading scorer on the Sixers, averaging 19.8 points and 9.0 rebounds along with 4.2 assists. Furkan Korkmaz will start in his place. 

It’s a significant loss to a Sixers’ roster, who will be without All-Star Ben Simmons, who hasn’t played a game yet this season, and Joel Embiid, who is dealing with a nagging knee injury. The Sixers are currently 5-2 and sit at fourth place in the Eastern Conference. They play a League-leading Chicago Bulls (6-1) on Wednesday.

Tobias Harris is the second player announced to be in the League’s health and safety protocol, along with Kevin Love.

The post Sixers Tobias Harris Enters Health and Safety Protocol appeared first on SLAM.

“Every team knows we’re going to Jayson [Tatum] and Jaylen [Brown], and every team is programmed and studies to stop Jayson and Jaylen,” Smart says, per CBS Sports. “I think everybody’s scouting report is to make those guys try and pass the ball. They don’t want to pass the ball and that’s something that they’re going to learn. They’re still learning and we’re proud of the progress they are making, but they are going to have to make another step and find ways to not only create for themselves but create for others on this team.

“To open up the court for them later in the game where they don’t always have to take those tough shots or take tough matchups when they do get the 1-on-1 and see a trap. Just reading that It’s something that we’ve been asking for them to do and they’re learning. We just got to continue to help those guys do that and help our team.”

Smart who scored 16 points, one rebound, and four steals in last nights contest also expressed wanting to be more involved offensively:

“There’s only so much I can do without the ball in my hands, I just stand in the corner,” Smart says, per CBS Sports.

“When we’re running plays for your best players, every team knows that and they do a good job of shutting that down. We can’t allow that, when they shut that down we can’t keep trying to go to those guys, we gotta abort that and find them another way to get them the ball in spots that they need the ball. And like I said for me, I can only do so much standing in the corner, or when I come up and give the ball away.”

The franchise ranks 27th in the League in isolation offense, scoring just 0.74 points per possession. Jaylen Brown ranks 13th on points per possession while Tatum is 38th in the league per the NBA. The Celtics are ranked 27th in the League with a 110.3 defensive rating and 19th in offensive rating at 104.6.

The post Marcus Smart After Third Straight Loss: ‘There’s Only So Much I Can Do Without The Ball In My Hands’ appeared first on SLAM.

Chicago Bulls forward Patrick Williams is expected to miss the rest of the regular season with a left wrist dislocation, source tells ESPN. He will undergo surgery soon.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 29, 2021

Williams collided with New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson during Thursday’s loss against the Knicks. He did not return for the remainder of the game.

The loss of Williams is a significant blow to a Bulls team who is off to a 4-1 start, their best start to a season since the 1996-97 season.

“It’s going to be a challenge, there’s no question about it,” Bulls coach Billy Donovan says per ESPN. “We’re a little bit smaller at that position and we’ve played smaller there … but when you lose a guy like that that can guard a lot of different positions and has got the strength and size to deal with post-up players, like Patrick does, it definitely hurts.”

Williams has shown flashes of being a productive player last season after being selected with the fourthoverall pick in 2020. The team has announced a four to six month timeframe for his recovery after surgery (per ESPN).

The post REPORT: Patrick Williams Expected to Miss Remainder of The Season appeared first on SLAM.

On Thursday, the Bulls organization announced that Noah has joined the franchise as a team ambassador and would be honored at the team’s Thursday night game against the New York Knicks.

“I’m truly humbled to be honored by both the team and city that I have always loved and respected,” Noah said in the Bulls statement. “Even more so to be able to celebrate tonight with family, friends, former players and coaches, and most of all—the Bulls fans who helped drive my energy throughout my years in a Bulls uniform at the United Center. It means so much to me that I’m now a Bull for life. I love you all and am thrilled tonight to solidify my continued connection with the Bulls and the city of Chicago, in this new chapter of my life.”

As a team ambassador, Noah’s role will be to build relationships with people in the city of Chicago, and the Bulls franchise. According to the Bulls’ statement, the team will also make annual donations to Noah’s charity, the Noah’s Arc Foundation.

The team honored him at the United Center in Chicago on Thursday night for “Noah Night” prior to their game against the Knicks.

In 13 seasons in the NBA, Noah held career averages of 8.8 points, 9.0 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game. Noah was a two-time All-Star, three-time All-Defensive team member and the 2013-14 Defensive Player of the Year.

Noah played nine of his 13 seasons in Chicago and helped take the Bulls to the playoffs seven times.

The post Joakim Noah Returns to Bulls as Team Ambassador appeared first on SLAM.

According to The Athletic’s Shams Charania, LaVine has a small ligament tear in the thumb of his non-shooting hand, however, he plans to play through the injury after the Bulls became the third undefeated team in the League. Charania reports that it depends on LaVine’s pain tolerance, but that he wants to play through it.

Bulls All-Star Zach LaVine has a small ligament tear in the thumb of his non-shooting hand but intends to play through the injury, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. It’s a matter of pain tolerance and LaVine wants to play as Chicago starts the season 4-0.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 27, 2021

NBC Chicago Bulls’ Insider K.C. Jones reports that LaVine underwent an MRI on his left thumb during the Bulls off-day on Tuesday. LaVine is currently averaging a team-high 25.5 points, 4.8 assists and 5.3 rebounds per game this season.

On Monday, the Bulls posted a 111-108 win over the Toronto Raptors, which confirmed the team’s first undefeated start since the 1996-1997 season. As for LaVine’s return, we’ll get a chance to see tomorrow night as the Bulls look to defend their record from the New York Knicks on Thursday.

The post REPORT: Zach LaVine ‘Plans to Play Through’ Small Ligament Tear in Left Thumb appeared first on SLAM.

The Bulls are now 3-0 in preseason, already showing quite a bit of early chemistry. 

They won their first two preseason game by a combined 72 points. Following those dominant performances, they beat the Cleveland Cavaliers by a point in their third game to keep the streak alive. 

Although it’s just preseason, the Bulls look on track to have a breakout season. In the Eastern Conference, anything can happen. 

With a revamped roster and plenty of talent to take them to the top, Chicago is a team to keep an eye on. Last season, they went 31-41 but should be much better in the 2021-22 season. 

The post Chicago Bulls Look on Track for Breakout Season appeared first on SLAM.

“I think (this is) for me, the best part of my career,” he said via NBA.com. “With the knowledge that I’ve gained over the years, my perspective on how I approach the game, how I approach preparation, everything to the game. It took me 13 years to get to the point that I’m at mentally, physically, emotionally in approaching the game. So for me, I think it’s just my best go-round. In my time in San Antonio (the last three seasons playing for Gregg Popovich), I learned so much more about myself as a player, what I was able and capable of doing. It grew me more as a leader. And this time around, it’s just putting everything I’ve learned in my career all together. It’s just put me at a different level physically and mentally.”

DeRozan, who averaged 21.6 points per game last season, has appeared in 58 NBA playoff games and four Game 7s, specifically. His playoff scoring exploits started in the 2016 playoffs with 30 and 28 point explosions in back-to-back Game 7 series clinchers before the Toronto Raptors were eliminated by the Cavaliers. Back in 2019, while suiting up for the Spurs, he finished with 19 points and six assists in Game 7 against the Nuggets.

As NBA.com’s Sam Smith notes, DeRozan is believed to be the frontrunner for the team’s starting small forward slot providing a physical interior scoring presence that can get to the free throw line. Chicago will be counting on his high percentage shooting in the mid-range game—he shot on average about 50 percent overall the last three seasons in San Antonio.

The post DeMar DeRozan Calls His Chicago Bulls Era “The Best Part of His Career” appeared first on SLAM.

Earlier this week, Chicago exercised the fourth-year option on guard Coby White, and third-year option on forward Patrick Williams. This results in both players being under contract with the team through the 2022-23 season.

Both Williams and White are among the most intriguing prospects in the NBA and should have major roles with the Bulls this season.

White is a spark plug off the bench, coming off a season in which he averaged 15.1 points, 4.8 assists and 4.1 rebounds per contest.

Williams just suffered a foot injury, but should have a chance to start upon his return. Last season as a rookie, he averaged 9.2 points and 4.6 rebounds per game while shooting 39.1% from beyond the arc.

These options being exercised weren’t unexpected moves by the Bulls, but will only help them as they continue to build a truly competitive roster

The post Chicago Bulls Exercise Options on White, Williams appeared first on SLAM.

In a subsequent move, the Cavs are waiving guard Damyean Dotson, per The Athletic’s Kelsey Russo.

Valentine, selected by the Chicago Bulls with the 14th overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, has had an up-and-down career filled with highs like a 34-point outing (against the Cavaliers) and lows like major surgeries to his left knee and left ankle.

Perhaps Valentine trying to get back into rhythm following surgeries and in pandemic-shortened seasons (as well as offseasons) is what’s led to his regression as a perimeter shooter since the 2017-18 season, when he shot a career-high 38.6 percent from 3-point range. He’s only shot 33.2 percent from 3-point range since then.

However, playing beside savvy playmakers like Darius Garland, Ricky Rubio, Evan Mobley and Kevin Love could provide Valentine with the type of clean looks he needs while players like Mobley, Isaac Okoro and Lamar Stevens have the potential to take the pressure off of him defensively.

He’ll also reunite with sharpshooting power forward Lauri Markkanen, who the Cavs recently acquired in a sign-and-trade.

Meanwhile, Dotson’s release will come as a surprise to many.

Although he shot a career-low 28.9 percent from 3-point range in 2020-21 (while shooting a combined 36.6 percent from deep in the two previous seasons), he was miscast in a combo guard role.

Just 27-years-old himself, Dotson’s playing career is far from over.

The post REPORT: Cavs Sign Denzel Valentine to Two-Year Deal, Waive Damyean Dotson appeared first on SLAM.

As a result, the Lakers have turned their attention to free agent wing James Ennis.

Per HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, Ennis has received interest from the Chicago Bulls and Orlando Magic, along with the Lakers.

Ennis is a player with speed to burn, making most of his plays in transition (1.17 points per possession in 2020-21) or spot-up opportunities (1.25 points per possession in 2020-21).

Fresh off a season where he shot a career-high 43.3 percent from 3-point range while with the Magic, Ennis will undoubtedly be able to provide the Lakers with serviceable wing depth and a potential rotation piece in the 3-and-D mold.

Los Angeles is currently projected to have Talen Horton-Tucker and Kent Bazemore as the depth behind LeBron James at small forward.

The post REPORT: Lakers Among Teams Interested in Signing James Ennis appeared first on SLAM.

Free agent forward Stanley Johnson has agreed to a deal with the Chicago Bulls, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) September 6, 2021

Johnson was the eighth overall pick in the 2015 draft by the Detroit Pistons before being traded to New Orleans in 2019. He then moved on and played for the Raptors for two years from 2019-21, earning a spot in the team’s regular rotation this past season.

Johnson’s offensive numbers for Toronto was not gaudy with averages of 4.4 points, 2.5 rebounds and 1.5 assists with shooting splits of .382/.328/.800, but his energy and defensive versatility off the bench gave him the opportunity with Chicago.

His best season with Detroit came in 2017-2018, when he averaged 8.7 points and 3.7 rebounds over 69 games including 50 starts.

Stanley Johnson is the latest Bulls addition that features DeMar DeRozan, Lonzo Ball, Alex Caruso, Derrick Jones Jr. and Tony Bradley that has come via trades and free agency.

The post Chicago Bulls Sign Former Lottery Pick Stanley Johnson to Contract appeared first on SLAM.

The 25-year old forward appeared in just 18 games for the Brooklyn Nets last season and was waived in conjunction with the DeAndre Jordan trade. He averaged 5.2 points per game, along with 5 rebounds.

The loss of Lauri Markkanen and Thaddeus Young can possibly open up some playing time for Johnson on a very good Chicago Bulls team.

The post Chicago Bulls Sign Free Agent Alize Johnson appeared first on SLAM.

As he finishes out his current four-year, $78 million deal, LaVine is set to become a free agent in 2022. As such, he’s looking for a massive payday and is well deserving of one. 

With contract negotiations upcoming, K.C. Johnson of NBC Sports Chicago has reported that LaVine is leaving Innovate Sports and BDA Sports and is expected to sign with Klutch Sports Group. 

One of the top agencies in sports, Klutch represents some of the best players in the world. Guys like LeBron James, Anthony Davis and Trae Young headline as some of the top clients they represent.

For LaVine this is a very strategic move heading into what should be the most lucrative contract of his career to this point. Last season he was an NBA All-Star, averaging 27.4 points, 5.0 rebounds and 4.9 assists per game. 

The post Zach LaVine To Sign With Klutch Sports Group appeared first on SLAM.

Millsap just finished up a four-year stint with the Denver Nuggets that saw his veteran presence help push the Nuggets to three straight playoff berths and a Western Conference Finals appearance in 2020.

While he may not be churning out the same numbers he was in his prime, the four-time All-Star would add significant value to any bench within the league. A consistent outside shooter with bursts of aggressiveness at 36-years-old, Millsap averaged 9.0 points and 4.7 rebounds in 20.8 minutes per game last season.

After losing bigs Jeff Green and Jarrett Allen (and potentially DeAndre Jordan, per Charania) in the span of just one year, the Nets have been linked Millsap for multiple weeks.

Chicago has been the next-most talked about destination for the 15-year vet, as the Bulls seek additional depth in the frontcourt behind star center Nikola Vucevic and second-year power forward Patrick Williams. Millsap’s efficiency (he boasted true shooting percentage of 56.5 percent last season) would pair nicely next to the Bulls’ splash signings this offseason: Lonzo Ball and DeMar DeRozan, both high-level playmakers.

The Los Angeles Clippers have also expressed interest in Millsap, per Charania.

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According to Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium, Cleveland will send prized forward Larry Nance Jr. to the Blazers in return, while the Portland Trail Blazers will send forward Derrick Jones Jr., a protected first-round pick and a protected 2023 second-round pick (via the Denver Nuggets) to Chicago.

With the Cavs the stars of the show in this deal, it makes sense to focus on what the trade means for them, particularly with Markkanen’s contract indicating a significant role in Cleveland’s rotation.

Nance provided the Cavs with a defensive-minded forward who could wreak havoc in passing lanes with his length but found himself at a physical disadvantage against larger players at 6’7.”

Despite this, Nance was also developing on the offensive end. Already a sound decision-maker as a passer and an excellent leaper who routinely made above-the-rim highlight plays, Nance was making strides as an outside shooter (36.0 percent from 3-point range last season) and ball-handler, often playing a quasi-point-forward role with Cleveland.

He’ll now bring those skills to the Blazers, who finished 29th in defensive rating last season (116.0).

Jones will join the Bulls as a defensive-minded forward, although his shooting development is behind the latter’s (31.6 percent from 3-point range last season). The Bulls, who traded versatile veteran forward Thaddeus Young to the San Antonio Spurs this offseason and will need to a player with a similar skillset to help compensate for Nikola Vucevic and DeMar DeRozan’s defensive limitations.

To that point, Markannen’s defensive reputation isn’t stellar. That matters less so on the Cavs, who have an above-average defensive frontcourt with Isaac Okoro, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen starting, and second-year forward Lamar Stevens likely to receive minutes with the second unit as well.

However, what will make all the difference for the Cavs is Markkanen’s combination of height (7’0″), shooting ability (36.6 percent from three for his career) and guard skill, as he compliments a frontcourt lacking dependable shooting outside of Dean Wade and Kevin Love (a buyout candidate).

The post Cavs Complete Sign-and-Trade for Lauri Markkanen with Bulls, Blazers appeared first on SLAM.

In an interview with The Atheltic’s Darnell Mayberry, DeRozan says the Bulls’ offseason acquisition of Lonzo Ball was key in his decision to head to Chicago.

“Once Lonzo signed, that made it even more appealing,” DeRozan said. “You could see what they were working toward, and it was something I wanted to be a part of. It wasn’t too much of a pitch that they had to make after that.”

DeRozan signed a three-year deal, reportedly worth $85 million, with the Bulls shortly after Ball had agreed to his four-year deal (reportedly worth $80 million).

The Bulls acquired both players via sign-and-trade. The Bulls sent a second-round pick, Tomas Satoransky and Garrett Temple to the Pelicans to acquire Ball and sent Thad Young, Al-Farouq Aminu, a 2025 first-round pick, a 2022 second-round pick and a 2025 second-round pick to the San Antonio Spurs for DeRozan.

The Bulls have been on a spending spree the past few months, trading for Nikola Vucevic at the trade deadline last season and signing Alex Caruso this offseason to a four-year $36.9 million contract.

The Bulls are fast on their path to get this team back to the playoffs for the first time since 2016-17, and a starting lineup of Ball, DeRozan, Zach LaVine, Patrick Williams and Vucevic is a great start to the path to competitiveness.

Chicago finished 11th in the Eastern Conference with a record of 31-41 last season, two games back from making the play-in tournament.

The post DeMar DeRozan Says Lonzo Ball Signing Made Joining Bulls ‘More Appealing’ appeared first on SLAM.

The Bulls signed Ball to a four-year, $85 million contract via sign-and-trade, establishing the 23-year-old as a key piece for their current playoff endeavors as well as their future. 

Ball spoke at a recent introductory media availability, giving insight into why he chose to sign with the Bulls. 

“I wanted to go somewhere I’m appreciated and can play my game,” said Ball. 

The 6-foot-6 guard can do a bit of everything on both ends of the floor. Last season, he averaged 14.6 points, 5.7 assists and 4.8 rebounds per game while shooting 37.8 percent from beyond the arc. The former second overall pick could take Chicago to the next level. 

The post Lonzo Ball On Going to the Bulls: ‘I Wanted To Go Somewhere I’m Appreciated’ appeared first on SLAM.

Bulls restricted free agent Lauri Markkanen tells Finnish journalist @AJ_Sipila he wants out of Chicago: “We have offers from several different teams. I want a fresh start to my NBA career somewhere else.”

— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) August 6, 2021

 Markkanen had the best shooting season of his career, shooting 48 percent from the floor and 40.2 percent from beyond the arc. That kind of shooting drew attention from teams like the Dallas Mavericks, New Orleans Pelicans, Minnesota Timberwolves and Boston Celtics. For these teams to acquire him, it would likely have to be done through a sign and trade.

However with the Bulls wanting compensation for Lauri Markkanen’s services, he remains a free agent and with most teams already using up their cap space, Markkanen may have no choice but to accept a one-year qualifying offer that would pay him approximately $9 million. Then after the season, he could become an unrestricted free agent which is something Markkanen reportedly has no interest in. 

As of now, the Bulls own his rights as a restricted free agent, with the ability to match any offer. According to Jake Fischer of Bleacher Report, the price of a sign and trade for the Bulls is a first-round pick in any sign-and-trade deal with Markkanen with a request to find a third team in the deal so they won’t have to take any salary back.

According to Marc Stein, the New Orleans Pelicans may be Lauri’s last chance out of Chicago this offseason.

The Pelicans have expressed interest in Lauri Markkanen and hold a sizable trade exception ($17 million) to take the restricted free agent in on a contract he seeks, sources say.

The post Lauri Markkanen Faces Uncertain Free Agency With Teams Interested appeared first on SLAM.

Guard-forward Javonte Green is returning to the Chicago Bulls on a two-year deal, source tells ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) August 6, 2021

Despite Green’s struggles to get consistent rotation minutes, his defensive prowess, athleticism, and hustle-plays in the 16 games he did play must have impressed the coaching staff and front office enough to lock him up in a multi-year deal.

Bulls coach Billy Donovan shared an observation via NBCSports.com:

“He’s obviously a long, quick athlete, and he’s also bright, too. He’s a smart player. I think he knows who he is as a player and I think he tries to play within the framework of who he is.”

Green, who averaged 2.6 points and 1.2 rebounds per game last season with Chicago, says that he knows what his role is going to be in order to help the team:

“I just bring energy that the team needs. I just know that’s what got me here, just playing hard. Everything else going to follow suit—athleticism and also my talent. I work hard to be here. I just know what I have to do to be on the basketball court.”

The post Javonte Green to Return to the Chicago Bulls with a Two-Year Contract appeared first on SLAM.

According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Bulls signed star wing DeMar DeRozan to a three-year, $85 million contract as part of a sign-and-trade with the San Antonio Spurs.

In return, San Antonio receives veteran forwards Thaddeus Young and Al-Farouq Aminu, along with a protected 2025 first-round pick and two future second-round picks.

DeRozan becomes the third player added by the Bulls in free agency thus far, as Chicago signed guard Alex Caruso to a four-year deal and acquired star guard Lonzo Ball via sign-and-trade last week.

(The Bulls also, notably, added center Nikola Vucevic from the Orlando Magic at the trade deadline last season.)

After continuing to expand his playmaking abilities while in San Antonio, DeRozan comes to this revamped Bulls team averaging 21.6 points, 6.9 assists and 4.2 rebounds per game in the 2020-21 season.

There are questions about DeRozan’s fit with the Bulls due to he, Zach LaVine and Ball all at their best with the ball in their hands. That’s without even factoring in necessary Vucevic touches.

Fortunately, due to DeRozan’s penchant for passing, Ball’s growth as an off-ball shooter last season and LaVine’s career-long status as a legitimate outside threat, there’s hope that the trio will be able to co-exist without one being relegated to a bench role.

The Bulls still have a lot of work to do this offseason, with a handful of roster spots still left to fill, but Chicago’s core is already showing signs of intrigue.

The post REPORT: Bulls Complete Sign-and-Trade with Spurs for DeMar DeRozan appeared first on SLAM.

In the deal, Chicago will send veteran guards Tomas Satoransky and Garrett Temple to New Orleans, who have been linked to a number of point guards in their quest to have a different dynamic at the position.

The Bulls and Ball’s mutual interest is unsurprising, as previous reports have linked the two parties.

Ball, a lengthy defender with a high basketball IQ and passing acumen, provides an element that Chicago has been lacking with the offensive-minded Zach LaVine. The fourth-year pro’s abilities as a perimeter defender and offensive initiator not only complement LaVine but alleviates him from the most tasking defensive responsibilities.

In 2020-21, Ball averaged 14.8 points, 5.7 assists and 4.6 rebounds per game while shooting 37.8 percent from 3-point range.

The post REPORT: Bulls Complete Sign-and-Trade with Pelicans for Lonzo Ball appeared first on SLAM.

With that in mind, there’s one team in particular that is a front-runner for landing the young, talented guard.

Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports recently reported that unless there’s a major hiccup, Ball intends to work out a contract with the Bulls. Additionally, Bleacher Report’s Jake Fischer reported that there’s mutual interest between Ball and the Bulls on a four-year deal worth north of $80 million. 

In terms of fit, Ball could be the missing piece to help bring Chicago back to the playoffs next season.

Last year with the Pelicans, he averaged 14.6 points 5.7 assists and 4.8 rebounds per game while shooting 37.8 percent from deep.

The post Lonzo Ball Has Interest Signing With Chicago Bulls appeared first on SLAM.

Team USA’s Zach LaVine has cleared health and safety protocols and will join the team in Tokyo on Thursday afternoon.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 21, 2021

LaVine is the third USA player to undergo health and safety protocols in the last week; Detroit Pistons forward Jerami Grant underwent a contact-tracing quarantine for four days while Washington Wizards guard Bradley Beal left the team under such protocols.

The Chicago Bulls star has started in place of Beal for the past two games and averaged 10.3 points in the teams four exhibition games.

LaVine will join the team just a day before the Olympic games start—three days before the team tips off its first pool play-game against France on Sunday.

The back-to-back Slam Dunk champion won’t be the only late arrival in Tokyo this week as first-time NBA champions Jrue Holiday and Khris Middleton, as well as Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker, will be taking the 15-hour flight to meet Team USA on Friday.

The post Zach LaVine to Join Team USA in Tokyo on Thursday appeared first on SLAM.

Eligible for an extension this summer, LaVine recently told NBC Sports Chicago Bulls reporter Rob Schaefer that he wants to be in Chicago long-term on the Bulls Talk Podcast. 

“I want to be here long-term, and I feel like I deserve what I get,” said LaVine. “So, it is what it is. We’ll figure (it) out when that comes. If it’s this year, next year, we’ll just see what happens.”

Still young and just entering his prime, this is great news for the Bulls who should be willing to throw max contract money at LaVine. Last season, he averaged 27.4 points, 5.0 rebounds and 4.9 assists per game. LaVine also shot an impressive 41.9 percent from deep on 8.2 attempts per contest. 

As Chicago continues to build their roster, adding guys like Nikola Vucevic to their core, extending LaVine is the next step towards becoming a playoff team long-term. 

The post Zach LaVine Says He Wants To Be In Chicago Long-Term appeared first on SLAM.

In fact, according to Bleacher Report’s Jake Fischer, the New York Knicks and Chicago Bulls are two teams to watch for in particular:

With no real true point guard on the roster heading into next season, the Knicks will likely be pursuing point guard options heavily in free agency. The Bulls do have Coby White and Tomas Satoransky on the roster but with playoff ambitions following their acquisition of All-Star center Nikola Vucevic, Schroder is a proven player whose scoring chops could be key to Chicago’s aspirations.

Schroder will be an unrestricted free agent this offseason after declining a four-year $84 million extension from the Los Angeles Lakers earlier this year.

In 2020-21 regular season, Schroder averaged 15.4 points and 5.8 assists per game on 43.7 percent shooting from the field and 33.5 percent shooting from three. In the playoffs, Schroder’s numbers would drop across the board, as he averaged 14.3 points and 2.8 assists per game while shooting just 40.0 percent from the floor (including 30.8 percent from 3-point range).

Schroder has played eight seasons in the NBA with three different teams: the Lakers, Atlanta Hawks and Oklahoma City Thunder. In those eight seasons, the former first-round pick has averaged 14.3 points and 4.7 assists per game.

The post Knicks, Bulls Expected to Have Interest in Dennis Schroder this Offseason appeared first on SLAM.

The roster, which features some of the most young and promising players in professional basketball, will be coached by Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra, Gonzaga University head coach Mark Few and Dallas Mavericks assistant coach Jamahl Mosley.

A roster of 13 young @nba standouts & 4 veteran players with international experience make up the 2021 USA Men’s Select Team that will train with #USABMNT July 6-9.

— USA Basketball (@usabasketball) July 1, 2021

The roster features seven rookies from the 2020 NBA Draft class in Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves), Saddiq Bey (Detroit Pistons), Tyrese Haliburton (Sacramento Kings), Immanuel Quickley (New York Knicks), Isaiah Stewart (Detroit Pistons), Patrick Williams (Chicago Bulls) and Obi Toppin (New York Knicks).

Sophomores and three-year pros Miles Bridges (Charlotte Hornets), Darius Garland (Cleveland Cavaliers), Tyler Herro (Miami Heat), Keldon Johnson (San Antonio Spurs), Naz Reid (Minnesota Timberwolves), P.J. Washington , (Charlotte Hornets) enter the mix as well, giving the US Select Team an intriguing stable of talent.

Four players on the roster—John Jenkins (Bilbao Basket, Italy), Cam Reynolds, Josh Magette (Darüşşafaka Tekfen, Turkey) and Dakota Mathias— all have NBA experience, and currently either play overseas or are unsigned.

Managing Director of Team USA Basketball Jerry Colangelo noted he felt confident in the program’s selection of the aforementioned players.

“This USA Select Team continues the legacy established by previous Select teams of helping prepare our USA National Team for the Tokyo Olympic Games,” said Colangelo, USA Basketball Men’s National Team managing director.

“With all the uncertainty of how many of our Olympic Team members will be available for the USA training camp because of the overlap with the NBA Finals, we chose a USA Select Team consisting of many of the top young NBA players and four players who not only own international experience, but who played recently for USA Basketball in important national team qualifying competitions.

If we need to add players to fill out our roster for any of our exhibition games, we feel this USA Select Team has an excellent variety of skilled players to choose from.”

Since the USA Basketball Men’s National Team program was developed in 2006, there have been six Select Teams fostered to help with preparation for events (2007, 2008, 2010, 2012, 2016, 2021.)

The inaugural roster featured then up-and-coming players such as Andre Iguodala, Al Jefferson, David Lee and J.J. Redick.

Team USA’s Select Team begins their Olympic journey on July 25, where they will be competing in the Group A bracket.

The post Team USA Select Team Roster Announced for Tokyo Olympics appeared first on SLAM.

After finishing in the top nine each season since the awards’ 2016-17 season debut, Young captured the award in his 14th NBA season.

The 2020-21 NBA Hustle Award goes to… Thaddeus Young! #NBAAwards #ThatsGame pic.twitter.com/QF9xXcisC2

— NBA (@NBA) June 23, 2021

Young had season averages of 12.1 points and 6.2 rebounds per game, while posting career-high in assists (4.3) and shooting percentage (55.9%).

The top five finalists of the award were Thaddeus Young, Ben Simmons (Philadelphia), Jae’Sean Tate (Houston) Draymond Green (Golden State) and Jrue Holiday (Milwaukee).

Thaddeus led the League in charges drawn and offensive loose balls recovered based on a per-minute basis. The stats are measured this way to compare the players on various amounts of allotted playing time. Based on Young’s 24.3 minutes per game this season, despite not having the same opportunities as other players with more minutes, his impact was felt maybe even more. He was one of only 12 players to average at least 15 points, eight rebounds, and five assists per 36 minutes.

Young’s on-court/off-court differential showed the Bulls were 10 points per 100 possessions better with Young on the court than when he was off. That ranked as the highest differential of all Chicago players that logged at least 500 minutes this past season. With Young suiting up, the team’s net rating was plus-4.1 net rating in 1,652 minutes, and without him, it was at its worst: minus-5.9 net rating in 1,824 minutes).

With the combination of what could be seen seen in the box scores with scoring, rebounding, playmaking and defense along with his hustle stats, the impact for the Bulls this season shows why he won this end-of-season recognition.

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The 11-year vet joins elite company as only the fourth player in history to reach such a milestone, etching her name next to Seattle Storm legend Sue Bird, four-time All-Star Ticha Penicherio and five-time All-Star Lindsay Whalen.

4th player in the @WNBA to reach 2k career assists.

LIVING. LEGEND. pic.twitter.com/eMLPFuyh07

— Chicago Sky (@chicagosky) June 16, 2021

“I think early on in my career I learned very quickly that to stay in this league I was going to have to outwork people,” Vandersloot said. “I’m not the tallest, the quickest or the best shooter, but I knew I had a place in this league and I’ve been really fortunate with Chicago investing in me early.”

Vandersloot finished the night with a game-high 13 assists, along with 10 points and four steals in the Sky’s 105-89 win over the Minnesota Lynx, notching her 41st career double-double.

The third overall pick in the 2011 WNBA Draft, Vandersloot’s night was also a landmark event as it became the 60th game of her career in which she recorded double-digit assists.

After their third straight win, the Sky head back to Chicago to host the Connecticut Sun (8-3) Thursday night at 2:00 p.m. EST on Twitter.

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While the organization has been in rebuilding mode, the midseason transaction to acquire All-Star center Nikola Vucevic from the Orlando Magic underscores their will to contend for an Eastern Conference Playoffs spot.

Chicago is reportedly thoroughly intrigued by the talent and potential long-term fit of shooting guard Horton-Tucker alongside Vucevic and star guard Zach LaVine. On top of that, the Chi-Town ties are strong for Tucker who graduated from inner-city powerhouse Simeon Career Academy High School.

Report: The Bulls are expected to pursue Talen Horton-Tucker in free agency, via @massey_evan pic.twitter.com/cpN33qHR1N

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) June 14, 2021

THT, a one-and-done at Iowa State, rarely played in his rookie season but his second year’s preseason run influenced his introduction as a regular rotation player.

During the 2020-21 season, Horton-Tucker averaged 9.0 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.6 assists in just 20.1 minutes per game, shooting .458 percent from the field, .282 percent from 3-point range, .775 percent from free-throw range.

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On Tuesday, the Mercury grabbed their fourth win of the season, defeating the Sky 84-83 in dramatic fashion. Phoenix boasted an unmatched amount of relentlessness as they trailed by 10 points with just 2:39 left on the clock in the fourth quarter.

Truth be told, the entire quarter was miraculous, but the final minute of the game was a godsend.

After whittling the lead down to 83-81, point guard Kia Nurse grabbed the rebound with just four seconds on the clock, dribbled to center court, euro stepped around a defender and heaved the game-winning shot from 26-feet out.

Immediately mobbed by her teammates, Nurse laid at the bottom of the pile with a gleaming smile.

“Breezy, Brianna Turner, told me to shoot it. I never make the half court shot. Thank god this one went in,” Nurse said postgame.

KIA CALLED GAME. @KayNurse11

(via @wnba) pic.twitter.com/XZQPRrArpu

— WSLAM (@wslam) June 2, 2021

Nurse finished with 18 points and eight boards on five three-pointers while Sklar Diggins-Smith dropped in 24 and two blocks.

“Our defensive stops gave us an opportunity to score. We have so much talent, so much depth, we were able to get it done,” Nurse said.

The Mercury ended the game on a 14-3 run capping off the hectic win. Now on a two-game win streak, they get another shot at the Sky tomorrow in Phoenix.

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With that in mind, Joe Cowley of the Chicago Sun Times recently reported adding key role players around him could persuade LaVine to give Chicago a slight discount.

A guy who’s completely deserving of a max contract, it appears the Bulls may not have to pay full price to keep LaVine around if they’re able to convince him they can use the savings to improve the team. LaVine hasn’t made the playoffs yet in his seven-year NBA career, so adding talent around him to change that is something that should be intriguing to him.

Just 26 years old, LaVine made his first NBA All-Star team this season and has emerged as one of the best off-ball guards in the NBA. Through 57 games this season, he’s averaged 27.5 points, 5.0 rebounds and 4.9 assists per game while shooting .419 from deep.

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The Hall of Fame Class of 2020 decides the selection of previous inductees to make the presentations. Due to Kobe Bryant’s tragic accident back in January of 2020, his family made the decision of selecting Jordan, who spoke at Kobe’s memorial service in February 2020.

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It was at the memorial service where Jordan gave the true insight of their close relationship.

“At first, it was an aggravation,” Jordan said of Bryant constantly peppering him with questions early in his career, per ESPN. “Then it became a passion.

“As I got to know him, I wanted to be the best big brother I could be.”

Jordan will be a busy man at the ceremony. He is the only Hall of Famer that will present two candidates to the Hall of Fame, introducing Baylor’s women’s basketball coach Kim Mulkey into the Hall as well.

The other 2020 Hall of Fame Inductees and Presenters are as follows.

• Patrick Baumann, presented by Russ Granik (’13), Vlade Divac (’19)
• Kobe Bryant, presented by Michael Jordan (’09)
• Tamika Catchings, presented by Alonzo Mourning (’14), Dawn Staley (’13)
• Tim Duncan, presented by David Robinson (’09)
• Kevin Garnett, presented by Isiah Thomas (’00)
• Kim Mulkey, presented by Michael Jordan (’09)
• Barbara Stevens, presented by Geno Auriemma (’06), Muffet McGraw (’17)
• Eddie Sutton, presented by John Calipari (’15), Bill Self (’17), Sidney Moncrief (’19)
• Rudy Tomjanovich, presented by Calvin Murphy (’93), Hakeem Olajuwon (’08)

The 2020 class of honorees had to wait a year for induction due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

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“Being in Orlando, it’s an opportunity for me to showcase my game, an opportunity for me to show that I impact winning,” Carter said to media in Wednesday. “It’s a huge opportunity for me coming to Orlando. I’m gonna do everything I can to flourish.”

Carter was traded to the Magic at the NBA trade deadline in a deal with the Chicago Bulls that sent All-Star Nikola Vucevic to Chicago.

Since arriving in Orlando, Carter has shown the massive potential that the Bulls saw in him when they drafted him seventh overall in 2018.

In his time with the Bulls, Carter played 119 games and averaged 10.8 points per game while shooting 50.9 percent from the field. Since joining the Magic, Carter has upped his scoring to 14.0 points per game and is shooting 54.5 percent from the field.

In Carter’s first game against his old team on Wednesday, 115-106. Carter posted a double-double of 19 points and 12 reboundsto to go along with four assists, two steals and a block.

The Magic are currently 14th in the Eastern Conference with a record of 18-37.

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Per Adrian Wojnarowski, All-Star guard Zach LaVine is expected to miss “several games” due to the NBA’s health and safety protocol.

Consequently, LaVine could miss up to 14 days, which would be equivalent to eight games for the Bulls. Chicago only has 18 games remaining in the regular season, and are currently 10th in the Eastern Conference standings with a record of 22-32.

It isn’t clear if any other members of the Bulls will have to enter health and safety protocols but the team had to cancel practice Thursday.

LaVine has had a career year thus far, averaging 27.5 points, 5.1 rebounds and 5.1 assists per game while shooting .506 percent from the field, .416 percent from 3-point range and .848 percent from the free-throw line. The high-wire act was also named to the All-Star team for the first time of his career.

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At 29-years-old, Drew is the youngest Division I men’s basketball coaches in the country.

A former college player who was considered a defensive specialist by Moser, Drew would make an official statement after his hiring, saying “it is an absolute honor to be named head men’s basketball coach at Loyola University Chicago”

“I’d like to congratulate one of the biggest mentors and role models in my life, Coach Moser, on his new opportunity at the University of Oklahoma. The impact that he has made on this entire university will not be forgotten.

We will continue to do things the right way, with character and passion! The vision and standard that Coach Moser established will forever remain a part of the culture.”

Valentine (who is the brother of Chicago Bulls wing Denzel Valentine) served as an assistant coach for the Ramblers since 2017 following stints at his alma mater (Oakland University) under Greg Kampe and Michigan State Univetsity under Tom Izzo. He served as a graduate assistant at Michigan State while Denzel was there as a player.

When asked about his elder brother’s hiring, Denzel had nothing but praise, saying that he “probably wouldn’t be where I’m at right now if he wasn’t a [graduate assistant] at Michigan State” (per NBC Sports’ K.C. Johnson).

“I give a lot of credit to him for my success, and I think he’s going to push those guys and that team to a new level.”

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One player who will no longer be on said roster is fourth-year center Daniel Theis, whom the Celtics sent to the Chicago Bulls in a three-team trade involving the Washington Wizards. Radio.com’s Ryan McDonough (a former league executive) would detail the trade as follows:

In sum, Boston would send off Theis, Javonte Green and $1.3 million in cash considerations while receiving centers Luke Kornet (via Chicago) and Moritz Wagner (via Washington). Both Green and Theis would be sent to the Bulls, along with wing Troy Brown Jr. (via Washington) and $250,000 (via Washington).

The Wizards would receive forwards Chandler Hutchinson and Daniel Gafford as well.

Theis is the most notable name on the list , having played a key role in the Celtics’ rotation for several years. A stretch-big who can also make plays above the rim, Theis is averaging a career-best 9.5 points per game this season (along with 5.2 rebounds and 1.0 blocks per game).

The spotlight reached Brown in 2019-20, as he averaged 10.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.2 steals per contest while starting 22 of 60 games. However, the arrivals of a ball-dominant All-Star in Russell Westbrook and a lottery pick in rookie Deni Avdija have significantly reduced Brown’s on-court opportunities, as he’s averaging just 13.7 points per game this season (he averaged 25.8 minutes per game last season).

Wagner is another player who particularly interesting, as he’s averaged 20.5 points and 7.5 rebounds per game over the course of his career when playing at least 30 minutes.

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Per ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Orlando Magic have traded All-Star center Nikola Vucevic and forward Al-Farouq Aminu to the Chicago Bulls in exchange for center Wendell Carter Jr., forward Otto Porter, a 2021 first-round pick and a 2023 first-round pick.

At 15-29 (14th in the Eastern Conference standings), the Magic’s decision to trade Vucevic signals the end of an era, with teammates Aaron Gordon and Evan Fournier long-rumored to be on the trading block. That being said, replacing Vooch with Carter not only improves Orlando’s defensive potential but gives them another versatile center that can grow into a role similar to the one Vucevic held.

Porter, 27-years-old, could begin displaying the potential he showed while with the Washington Wizards while in a new environment. A multi-dimensional forward with a defensive lean, Magic head coach Steve Clifford could become of his biggest fans.

Wojnarowski adds that Chicago’s leadership — executive vice president Arturas Karnisovas, general manager Marc Eversley and head coach Billy Donovan — wanted a “productive, serious-minded veteran player to be a cornerstone” for the Bulls.

30-years-old and in his 10th season, Vucevic is a playmaking center who’s averaging 24.5 points, 11.8 rebounds and 3.8 assists per game this season, numbers that all match or exceed his previous career-highs.

Aminu, 30-years-old and in his 11th season, is a defensive-minded player who has averaged 5.5 points, 5.4 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game in 2020-21 (17 games).

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LeBron, who finished with the highest vote count among fans, got the first pick in the draft and selected Milwaukee Bucks forward and two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Team LeBron’s starting lineup for the game will consist of himself, Antetokounmpo, Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry, Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic and Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic; all five of whom are or have been considered MVP candidates this season.

Meanwhile, Team LeBron’s bench will feature Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard, Philadelphia 76ers guard Ben Simmons, Phoenix Suns guard Chris Paul, Boston Celtics wing Jaylen Brown, Los Angeles Clippers wing Paul George, Indiana Pacers forward Domantas Sabonis and Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert.

Durant, opting for chemistry, selected Brooklyn Nets teammate Kyrie Irving with his first pick in the draft.

Team Durant’s starting lineup will feature Irving, Sixers center Joel Embiid, Clippers wing Kawhi Leonard, Celtics forward Jayson Tatum and Washington Wizards guard Bradley Beal.

However, Durant won’t be playing in this season’s All-Star Game, as he’s currently recovering from a left hamstring injury. This circumstance will only fuel the perception, even from the Greek Freak, that Team LeBron is the overwhelming favorite to win.

Durant got the first pick of the reserves in the draft, and with that, he took another Nets teammate in James Harden (LeBron’s first reserve selection was Lillard).

The remainder of Durant’s reserves will be composed of Jazz guard Donovan Mitchell, Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (who replaced injured Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis), New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson, Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine, New York Knicks forward Julius Randle and Orlando Magic center Nikola Vucevic.

The two members of the Jazz, Mitchell and Gobert, were the last two players taken in the draft (with Gobert being the final selection).

This became the source of some playful quips by LeBron.

Team Durant has the more inexperienced roster of the two teams, with Williamson, LaVine and Randle all playing in their first All-Star Games and Mitchell, Vucevic, Booker and Tatum playing in their second. with Durant unable to play, Harden is the player with the most All-Star Games under his belt, with this being his ninth appearance.

Team LeBron has only Brown playing in his first All-Star Game, and Sabonis, Gobert and Doncic are playing in their second. LeBron also has the most experienced non-captain in Paul, who is playing in his 11th All-Star Game.

In total, Team LeBron has a combined 66 All-Star appearances on their roster compared to Team Durant’s 39 total appearances.

The NBA All-Star Game will be played on Sunday, March 7, in Indianapolis, Indiana. The game will be broadcast on TNT, with tip-off scheduled for 8 p.m. ET.

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The three-point contest will be headlined by two former champions of the event, the Golden State Warriors’ Stephen Curry and Phoenix Suns’ Devin Booker. The remainder of the three-point contest will be made up by the Chicago Bulls’ Zach LaVine, Utah Jazz’s Donovan Mitchell and Boston Celtics’ duo of Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum. All six of the players competing in the three-point contest will also be playing in the All-Star Game.

The NBA skills challenge will have a first-time winner, as all six entrants have yet to win the event. Five of the six players competing will be playing in the All-Star Game, those are the Suns’ Chris Paul, Dallas Mavericks’ guard Luka Doncic, Indiana Pacers forward Domantas Sabonis, New York Knicks’ forward Julius Randle and Orlando Magic center Nikola Vucevic. Portland Trailblazers’ forward Robert Covington is the lone participant in the skills challenge who will not feature in the All-Star Game.

That is in sharp contrast to the dunk contest participants, none of whom will be playing in the All-Star game and all of whom will be participating for the first time. The dunk contest features just three players this year, two rookies in Pacers’ Cassius Stanley and Knicks’ Obi Toppin, and the Trailblazers’ Anfernee Simons. The dunk contest has a star-studded cast of judges, all of which are former winners. Dominique Wilkins, Dee Brown, Spud Webb, Josh Smith and Jason Richardson will be the five judging the event.

These events will take place on the same day as the All-Star Game, Sunday, March 7. The skills challenge and three-point contest will occur before the game, with the dunk contest being performed at halftime.

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