4. Jabari Parker, SF, Milwaukee Bucks
First, let’s get this out of the way. Jabari Parker is a restricted free agent this offseason, meaning the Milwaukee Bucks can match any offer sheet he signs. So even though the Bulls have the dough to make a max offer, the Bucks could theoretically pull him back in.
In this dream scenario, though, let’s assume Milwaukee isn’t interested. If Chicago decides to gift Parker a max offer, then he’s going to accept with open arms as he makes his heroic return to the city that he grew up in.
Maybe the change of scenery will do him some good. That’s not to say he hasn’t excelled up to this point, but injuries have hindered his development through his first four seasons in the NBA. Two torn ACLs certainly isn’t a great way to turn potential into production. Despite the red flags, the Bulls would have to be excited about bringing in a young forward with superstar talent.
As I’ve mentioned previously, Chicago doesn’t have much to brag about at small forward. Parker could immediately slide in alongside Markannen, serving as the other elite scoring threat for the Bulls. He’d give them shooting, energy and star potential the likes of which they haven’t seen since, well, Jimmy Butler.
I’m a big fan of the returning home storyline, which is why I like the idea of Parker coming back to Chicago. There, he can stay healthy and unlock the endless upside that got him drafted No. 2 overall.