Would it be smart for the Chicago Bulls to trade up in the draft?

The Chicago Bulls enter next week’s draft in a favorable position, owning both the #7 and #22 picks. The only question now is, what should the Bulls do with them?

The NBA Draft is rapidly approaching in just under a weeks time, and the Chicago Bulls have countless options in regards to their two first-round selections. What’s the smartest move for Gar Forman and John Paxson? Should they stay put, play the odds, and hope a player like Mo Bamba falls? Or should the Bulls take advantage of the two first-rounders at their disposal, and move up for an elite prospect?

The case to stay put

The Chicago Bulls were not known to move much on draft day until recently, known as a conservative franchise prioritizing winning, experienced players in the first round. What’s more, moving up doesn’t always mean you’re getting a better prospect. The Bulls have surely learned this following a draft day move up for Doug McDermott, giving up Gary Harris and Jusuf Nurkic.

Nonetheless, staying likely guarantees them a prospect with all-star potential who fits their needs. By drafting a player like Wendell Carter, the Bulls will be fulfilling a need and bringing on a stellar prospect with a high floor. Drafting safe is a good way to ensure the Bulls don’t take a step back after a pitiful year. Moving up requires the team to release future assets that could help as the Eastern Conference continues to weaken.

The case to trade up

The fact that the Bulls have two first-round picks is an absolute treasure the team must use wisely. With young players on the roster, and picks to trade, moving up is appealing. In recent days, we’ve seen reports the Kings are interested in Michael Porter Jr. as an option at #2. While that could be a reach, that’s also good news for a team like the Bulls. Following a season in which a top-3 selection was anticipated, an opportunity to make it a reality isn’t far off.

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If their interest is strong enough, perhaps Sacramento feels they can snag Porter at #7, while adding other pieces in the process. By packaging their #7 pick, #22 pick, and a player, the Bulls are right where they envisioned themselves months ago. With such a move, prospects like Luka Doncic, Marvin Bagley III, and Jaren Jackson Jr are put back in play and the Bulls are more likely to land a potential superstar.

What will the Bulls do?

Based on VP John Paxson’s interview with 670 The Score, it would sound as if the Bulls will stay put. Listen to the whole interview here, as he touches on the Draft, squashes the Kris Dunn rumors, and speaks on Michael Porter Jr:

Adding two first-round caliber players is not a bad route to take while in the midst of a rebuild. But Paxson said the same thing last year, then traded Jimmy Butler on draft day. It’s anyone’s guess as to what will actually happen June 21st, but we’re all here for the ride.