Chicago Bulls: 3 players most likely to be traded before deadline
3. Bobby Portis
This has been an injury-riddled campaign for the Chicago Bulls’ big man. In his fourth season from Arkansas, Portis has missed 31 of 43 games so far. In a contract year, this isn’t the season Portis hoped to have. However, the 6’11” forward still has a lot to offer a team willing to make a move for him.
Still on his rookie contract, Portis will be a restricted free agent this summer. Though he has stated that he’d like to stick with the Bulls long-term, the team could move Portis for a decent return.
In 12 games this season, Portis is averaging 12.9 points and 7.3 rebounds per game. He adds value to any squad due to his high-motor and ability to stretch the defense with his shooting ability. Still just 24 years old, the big man is shooting 44.0 percent from the field and 37.1 percent from downtown.
Bobby Portis even stronger on wanting to stay in Chicago: "I couldn’t see myself in any other jersey. Obviously, I got Bulls DNA. Me and the city have a love connection somewhere. I just enjoy playing for the Bulls."
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) October 16, 2018
For the Bulls to move Portis, they will have to determine before the deadline that they don’t plan to re-sign him or match any offers for him. With Markkanen and Carter entrenched in the starting lineup, Portis will be a long-term sixth man in Chicago. He’s already proven that this role is acceptable, but with his skill-set, it’s conceivable that at some point he’d like to be in a situation where he can be a starter.
A player the caliber of Portis should net the Bulls at least a late first round pick. If the Bulls could wrestle two second-rounders from the Grizzlies for Holiday, they should feel comfortable setting the ceiling higher for Bobby Portis.