Paul Zipser isn’t happy with the Chicago Bulls
In an interview with Rhein Neckar newspaper, Paul Zipser talked about his first two seasons in the NBA and what his future holds with the Chicago Bulls.
The Chicago drafted Paul Zipser with the 48th pick in the 2016 NBA draft. The Bulls had high expectations for the second rounder, but Zipser hasn’t met those expectations. In his first season with the Bulls, Zipser averaged 5.5 points and 2.8 rebounds per game. Zipser started in 18 games his rookie season and showed some flashes.
In a interview with Rhein Neckar newspaper, Paul Zipser talked about his first season with the Bulls. The interview was done in German, but I translated the article to make it the English version.
"“The first year was just going very well. I fought my way into the team from the beginning and showed how I can help the team. The Bulls just needed someone like me. That’s why it worked so well. We benefited from each other and that’s why we were successful.”"
In his second season, Paul Zipser averaged four points and 2.4 rebounds per game. He played in 54 games and started in 12 of those. Zipser missed 19 games because of left foot pain.
On May 18th, the Chicago Bulls announced that Paul Zipser had surgery in Germany to repair a broken left foot. Zipser told Rhein Neckar newspaper that his foot kept bugging him throughout the season.
When talking to Rhein Neckar newspaper, Paul Zipser didn’t sound happy about the way the second season went.
"“I think we had a philosophy in the club that I simply did not like anymore. There were many rotations that would not normally happen in a team. All this change was difficult for everyone – and especially for me personally. In the beginning it was not properly communicated to the players. Only later came the announcement that you would like to change something in the rotation, but as a player we could do nothing about it. That finally destroyed the team spirit. Even before that you had already noticed with a few things that decisions were illogical if you want to make a successful season. With my coach, I have always communicated openly and honestly, I appreciate him very much.”"
This past season, the Chicago Bulls used 25 different starting lineups.
When asked by Rhein Neckar newspaper what his future holds, Paul Zipser didn’t hold back.
"“I’m pretty sure for my career that I do not want to relive a year like the past. I just do not see any sense. The fun factor is not there, as I love him otherwise in this sport. The Bulls have an option until mid-July, until then they have to say if they want to keep me or not. I would not be surprised if they no longer want me. Actually, I’m pretty sure I will not play in Chicago soon.”"
Paul Zipser has two years left on his deal, but neither year is guaranteed. If he play for the Bulls next season then he will be making about $1.5 million.
Next: Bulls: Pippen Ain't Easy pre-draft roundtable
It sure sounds like Paul Zipser doesn’t really want to play for the Chicago Bulls. It should be interesting to see what the Bulls do with him.