The Bulls continue to be rumored to be actively looking for another rim protector to help solidify their defense. Most of the focus has been on the possibility of Chicago targeting Jazz All-Star Center Rudy Gobert in what would be a blockbuster deal. However, a deal still seems far-fetched which means Chicago would have to start looking at other options.
Mo Bamba To The Bulls?
An unexpected name that is connected to Chicago is the 24-year-old Orlando Magic Center Mo Bamba. Jake Fischer who writes for Bleacher Report, stated that both the Bulls and Raptors have emerged as teams who have shown interest in the 7-foot rim protector.
“Mo Bamba appears to have interest from the Bulls and Raptors, among other teams in search of rim protection. After Paolo Banchero’s selection at No. 1, there’s also motivation on both sides for Bamba and the Magic to agree to terms on a new deal, sources said.”
If the Bulls did decide to go after Bamba, the Magic would obviously be able to match any contract offer a team sends. However, it’s fair to question if Orlando still sees the big man as apart of the future moving forward.
The Bulls Should Jump On This
I have been hesitant regarding the Bulls trading for Rudy Gobert this off-season. The package the team would likely have to throw together just seemed like to big of a gamble on what is an already aging All-Star. Mo Bamba is a younger, safer, and cheaper option that could still help fortify this defense. He would also be a good fit chemistry wise as he already has ties with Nikola Vucevic as they played in Orlando together. Last season Bamba received a golden opportunity to start where he posted career highs in points, rebounds, and blocks. In 2021 he averaged just around 25 minutes per game where he recorded 10.6 PPG, 8.1 RPG, and 1.7 BPG.
Mo Bamba spins away from KD for the dunk 🌪️ pic.twitter.com/DTDgx2aSXp
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) November 11, 2021
Factoring the length and versatility Bamba would bring, it’s a very affordable option I think the Bulls ought to look more into as the free agency period nears. The team has also been linked to Blake Griffin and Mitchell Robinson which are both intriguing options in their own right. At the end of the day, the Bulls have get better in the front court and they know this. How they decide to accomplish this is still to be seen. Do they go all in and go for the big fish or do they make less risker moves and continue to build on what they have?
Going the cheaper route and banking on a player’s potential like a Mo Bamba is a move I think makes the most sense and hope the team explores. We will see the direction Artūras Karnišovas and Marc Eversley ultimately decide to go soon as free agency starts on June 30th at 6PM EST.
