Chicago Bulls: Takeaways From Taj Gibson, Doug McDermott Trade

Nov 5, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Paul George (13) is guarded by Chicago Bulls forward Taj Gibson (22) and forward Doug McDermott (11) at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Indiana defeated Chicago 111-94. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

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Jan 24, 2017; Orlando, FL, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Doug McDermott (11) shoots a three pointer over Orlando Magic guard Mario Hezonja (8) during the second quarter at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Doug McDermott

It has been well documented that the Bulls gave up two first round picks in order to nab McDermott with the No. 11 pick in the 2014 NBA Draft (via a trade with the Denver Nuggets).

Initially, there was cause for concern as McDermott had a less than memorable rookie season, with averages of 3.0 points and 1.2 rebounds per contest in just 36 appearances. However, McDermott has improved his scoring since then and was averaging a career-best 10.2 points per contest.

Furthermore, McDermott was Chicago’s best long-range shooter, having converted 37.3 percent of his attempts from beyond the arc. Sure, McDermott is not considered a great defender by any stretch of the imagination, but he was the lone legitimate floor spacer on a Bulls team that is ranked dead last in three-point shooting (31.6 percent).

Not exactly sure what the Bulls brass was thinking about here, but what is a certainty is that the second unit will have a difficult time manufacturing points in light of McDermott’s departure.

Now, let’s take a look at what the Bulls received in return.

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