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2017 NBA Draft: Biggest winners and losers

By Max Holm

Dec 13, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves forward Andrew Wiggins (22) dribbles the ball against Chicago Bulls forward Jimmy Butler (21) during the second half at the United Center. Minnesota defeats Chicago 99-94. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 13, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves forward Andrew Wiggins (22) dribbles the ball against Chicago Bulls forward Jimmy Butler (21) during the second half at the United Center. Minnesota defeats Chicago 99-94. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 25, 2017; Kansas City, MO, USA; Oregon Ducks forward Jordan Bell (1) reacts during the second half of the game against the Kansas Jayhawks in the finals of the Midwest Regional of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Sprint Center. Oregon defeated Kansas 74-60. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 25, 2017; Kansas City, MO, USA; Oregon Ducks forward Jordan Bell (1) reacts during the second half of the game against the Kansas Jayhawks in the finals of the Midwest Regional of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Sprint Center. Oregon defeated Kansas 74-60. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports /

Biggest Winner #5: Jordan Bell and the Golden State Warriors

I guess they really are light years ahead. Jordan Bell was a borderline first round talent where fit really mattered. As a small-ball 5 with no shooting and very little offensive scoring, he needed a team that could take advantage of his skill set.

When you think of an elite defensive prospect who needs spacing to thrive, is there really any team better for him than the Golden State Warriors?

The Warriors could theoretically play Bell instead of Zaza Pachulia, David West and when Draymond Green sits. They might have two elite small-ball 5s now. It’s so unfair (and also great) that the Warriors got Bell. Of course they did.

Let’s also not let the Chicago Bulls off the hook on this one (more on them later). The Bulls were the ones who made this all happen. Granted, the Warriors coughed up a reported $3.5 million, but what exactly do the Bulls need that money for?

Sure, the Warriors’ potential dynasty over the next five years won’t hurt the Bulls’ ambitions, but man, this decision falls in line with their whole night.

Bell’s ability to defend multiple positions, make plays offensively, and readiness to contribute right away probably helps the Warriors’ ability to keep their core together and have a strong bench. Get ready to see Bell in the NBA Finals next year.