Who’s In, Who’s Out? A Look at the Bulls Upcoming Free Agency Class
With the end of the 2018-2019 NBA Season right around the corner, the Bulls are going to have to make quite a few decisions–some tougher than others–on which members of the roster will return to next year’s team.
It’s usually a tough decision to make when a player enters free agency. How much money is he worth? Is he really THAT good to stick around on a playoff-bound roster? Gar Foreman and John Paxson will answer. First up…
Ryan Arcidiacono, Guard
Originally a G-League call-up, Ryan Arcidiacono has quickly carved his spot into the Chicago Bulls rotation. While splitting time with Kris Dunn and Shaq Harrison, Arch has stood out. Not only is he the most efficient guard on the team–other than Zach Lavine–he is the only real threat from a distance, connecting on 37.5% of his shots from beyond the arc. The most significant part of Ryan’s game is his phenomenal Basketball IQ, and the hustle plays he makes game after game, such as this:
He makes the smart basketball play nearly every time he steps foot on the court.Now, where does he fit? The Bulls are without-a-doubt looking to add a veteran point guard to take on the starting role, pushing Kris Dunn to the role of 6th man. From the looks of it, the Bulls are going to have to choose between Arcidiacono and Shaq Harrison. To me, Shaq Harrison is a mini-Dunn. Both defense hounds that are average-to below-average shooters. Shaq does not have a jumper to speak of. It wouldn’t make sense to keep Shaq around with Dunn already planted. If the Bulls decide to carry a 3rd Point Guard, which is likely, it should be Ryan Arcidiacono.
Verdict: Keep
Wayne Selden, SG/SF
Photo: Chicago Tribune
Two days into January, the Chicago Bulls got to fleecin’. Gar Foreman and John Paxson orchestrated a trade that would send the aging Justin Holiday to the Memphis Grizzlies for MarShon Brooks (Waived), Wayne Selden, and two second-round picks. In only 34 games with the team, Selden has slowly given himself a case to be retained for next season.
During this short try out period, Wayne has put up roughly 8 points per game on 34% shooting from a distance. His Chicago career is highlighted by a 20 point burst which included 4 made threes and 8 assists, while also boasting a Box Plus-Minus of +19.
Selden will hit the market as a Restricted Free Agent (RFA), thus giving the Bulls the opportunity to match any contract offer he receives within 48 hours. It is unlikely that Selden could command much more than his current salary of roughly $2 million on the open market, giving the Bulls a prime opportunity to retain a young wing who could become a serviceable depth piece on a playoff roster. If you think Justin Holiday is a good playoff piece to have, Wayne Selden is a younger version of him–but with more potential and room to grow.
Verdict: Keep for Cheap
Robin Lopez, C
Photo: clutchpoints.com
As the trade deadline neared, it seemed like a certainty that the Bulls would move on from Robin Lopez. Whether that be to trade him for something, or to let him walk free to chase a ring with the Golden State Dynasty. It never happened. John Paxson stood firm in the belief that Lopez would remain with the team and it was the right move.
Since All-Star break, RoLo is scoring at a rate of 15.5 points per game. His post moves and scoring reminiscing of a multitude of Legendary Bulls Big Men along the way–at least according to Stacey King.
On the open market, Robin could snag a nice offer somewhere if he desired to leave Chicago. He is one of the best backup big-men a team could ask for. However, Lopez seems to show no desire to go elsewhere. Maybe we can thank his friendship with Benny the Bulls for that. On a serious note, Robin has been willing to do whatever is best for the team as he willingly accepted a bench role to rookie Wendell Carter Jr. and has continued to provide invaluable leadership to the young guys. As long as he is cheaper than his current price-tag of $14 million, there should be no reason why RoLo is not on the roster next season. If you’d like a more in-depth look at Robin, check out Dereck’s article here.
Verdict: Keep, At the right price.
Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot, SG/SF
Formerly a 1st round draft pick of the Philadelphia 76ers, Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot has not developed into much of anything in his 2 years in the league–having already bounced around 3 franchises. He is a poor shooter and relatively provides no positives during game-time. Not to mention, the Bulls already have Chandler Hutchison, Denzel Valentine, and possibly a specific draft pick to fill out the Small Forward spot on the roster.
TLC would be best served as a camp-body, and at this point, it seems unlikely that he’ll even develop into a useful depth piece. There is no room for him on a team fighting for a playoff spot. But thanks for the free cash OKC!
Verdict: Let Him Walk
The G-League
Both Brandon Sampson and Rawle Alkins joined the Bulls on two-way contracts, allowing them to play for the G-League Affiliate Windy City Bulls as well as being on the pro team for 45 days. I wouldn’t expect any movement on this front. Both will likely be back on Windy City next season, perhaps leading to another G-League playoff berth.
Verdict: Back to the G-League
With roughly $20 million in cap space this offseason, the Chicago Bulls should look to the open market for veterans and depth pieces; however, it wouldn’t be too bad of an idea to invest in their own.
Featured Image: Chicago Tribune
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