Chicago Bulls: 3 crucial targets in NBA free agency

Chicago Bulls targets in NBA free agency: 1. Nicolas Batum

The Bulls aren’t just lacking in point guard depth; they need some reinforcements at the wing positions, too. Obviously, they aren’t signing Kawhi Leonard to fix those issues, but sitting idle and hoping that Patrick Williams makes a leap in Year Two doesn’t seem like a wise choice either.

Unfortunately, this year’s free-agent class doesn’t leave too many great options outside of Leonard. Otto Porter’s too injury-prone, as Bulls fans are well aware. Andre Iguodala and Trevor Ariza are too old. Options like Reggie Bullock or Doug McDermott have glaring flaws. Players like Tim Hardaway Jr. or Kelly Oubre Jr. are probably too expensive, especially if the Bulls address the PG spot adequately.

Perhaps taking a flyer on a veteran like Nicolas Batum would work here. The 32-year-old forward looked washed in Charlotte, but he revitalized his career with the Los Angeles Clippers this past season (2.0 EPM). Known throughout his career for his versatility on both sides of the floor, Batum has become primarily a floor spacer on offense and is not the perimeter defender he once was (29th percentile in opponent’s P&R PPP).

However, as seen in LA, he can bring two-way value to a team that could use his shooting (40.4 percent from 3-point range), activity as a help defender (81st percentile in defending the passing lanes, per Bball Index), and surprising rim protection (74th percentile in dFG percentage at the rim vs. expected, per BBall Index; 65th percentile in blocks per 75).

Batum may not be the most glamorous choice, but he checks enough boxes for the Bulls to make the pursuit worthwhile.