NBA Trades: Pros and cons of a potential Rudy Gobert-Chicago Bulls trade

NBA Trades: Cons of a potential Rudy Gobert-Chicago Bulls trade

As nice as it is to talk about the underrated benefits Gobert brings to an offense, those positives cease to exist outside of the restricted area. Even in the paint, Gobert’s lack of a refined post-game makes switching a smaller guard onto him an easier gamble to take (something the Bulls experienced with Lauri Markannen).

Say what you will about Vučević, he at least can take advantage of mismatches on the block.

Also, unlike the Jazz, the Bulls are ill-equipped to take advantage of the attention Gobert generates on rim rolls. Yes, they ranked fourth in three-point percentage last year, but their ranking last in attempts per 100 (and third in corner three-point attempt rate) indicates how often they needed to pick their spots from downtown.

Generally speaking, teams don’t fear the possibility of Troy Brown, Derrick Jones Jr., or Javonte Green beating them with three-point makes. Even if they make a few from the corners, opponents will concede those in hopes that the bricks will increase with the volume.

This would allow defenders to freely pack the paint to prevent any clean looks at the rim for Gobert, not to mention DeMar DeRozan or Zach LaVine (should he return).

Basically, Gobert’s effectiveness on offense depends on the perimeter pieces around him. If the Bulls haven’t addressed that before any potential trade, they’ll meet the same fate that they did against Milwaukee in Round 1.