Jan 19, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Pau Gasol (16) shoots against Cleveland Cavaliers center Timofey Mozgov (20) in the first quarter at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
#2 – Pau Gasol
Pau Gasol has been an absolute beast for the Bulls this season, and has proved to be one of the best signings of the offseason.
The 7’0” center from Spain is averaging 18.3 points, 11.8 rebounds (fifth in the league), 2.7 assists and 2.1 blocks (fourth in the league) in 35 minutes per game. He has been a fabulous leader as well as a great passer, scorer, and rim protector.
Gasol was just announced as a starter in the 2015 All-Star game, and this is the first time in his career that Gasol will get to start. He finished with the second most votes in the frontcourt for the Eastern Conference.
Another bonus that Gasol has given to the Bulls is his mentoring of overseas rookie Nikola Mirotic. Mirotic has been a great player so far coming off the bench for Chicago, and Gasol has helped Mirotic adapt to the NBA (remember that Gasol, also from Spain once had to go through a similar experience).
Playing for a new team has rejuvenated Gasol. The 34-year-old’s 18.3 points is the most he has scored since his 2010-11 season with the Los Angeles Lakers, and his 11.8 rebounds are the most he has ever averaged. Gasol is proving that he still can perform at an elite level, and he is a fantastic addition for the Bulls.