NBA: 5 teams who have decreased their stock over the summer
2. Chicago Bulls
Jimmy Butler was the best player to switch teams this offseason.
Anytime you lose a player of his caliber, you’re going to end up high on this list. He’s one of the best two-way players in the entire league and is only getting better. His defensive play may have slipped the past couple of years, but that’s only natural for someone who takes on so much offensive responsibility.
Butler can do a little bit of everything — pass, defend, score, rebound, you name it.
The Chicago Bulls did get a decent haul in return. They received Zach LaVine, Kris Dunn and the seventh overall pick, which turned into Lauri Markkanen.
However, Chicago also lost Rajon Rondo. That may not seem like a huge deal, but Rondo is still a serviceable point guard.
Dwyane Wade is also another question mark. He’s currently under contract with the team, but a buyout or trade is expected. It’s clear the team is traveling in a different direction, so moving on only makes sense.
Nikola Mirotic also remains a free agent. Nobody knows for certain if he will return, but he’d be another loss for the Bulls.
All in all, Chicago won’t build off their 41 wins last season. They are sure to fall below .500 for the first time in 10 years.