Chicago Bulls: What is Denzel Valentine’s future with the organization?

With Denzel Valentine’s year over with ankle surgery, it’s a valid question to ask whether Valentine’s tenure with the Chicago Bulls is coming to an end.

Since the 2016 season, Denzel Valentine has been a very solid role player for the Chicago Bulls. At 6’6, with his ball handling ability and decent shooting touch, has been very versatile.

Valentine occasionally starting at the two and three last season, but has also ran the second unit. Without Valentine, the Bulls have had to rely on players such as Ryan Arcidiacono and Shaquille Harrison to match his production.

Although the Bulls currently miss what Valentine gives, by next year, his role may diminish significantly. This is for two reasons; The Bulls current trajectory and the development of Chandler Hutchinson.

Addressing the first point, the Chicago Bulls are 4-13, which is tied for the 4th worst record in the NBA. Hopefully, this trend continues and the Bulls can get a top five pick in next years top-heavy draft.

With the Bulls current roster, one major need is at small forward. Especially in this draft, forwards such as RJ Barrett, Cameron Reddish, Zion Williamson (if the Bulls believe that they could develop his jump shot), Romeo Langford, Nassir Little, and Sekou Doumbouya are top prospects that the Bulls could use.

If they Bulls continue tanking like they should, they most likely will draft one of these players, which will take minutes away from Denzel Valentine.

The other reason is Chandler Hutchinson. With Valentine currently out, Hutchinson has been able to get some NBA minutes rather than sitting on the bench or playing in the G-league. So far, Hutchinson has been playing pretty solid.

Although his jump shot isn’t there yet, his defensive intensity is solid. It’s only been 17 games so far, so over the course of the rest of the year, if he’s able to build up his offensive skill set, the Bulls may have found a gem.

So hypothetically, if Hutchinson pans, Valentine will also lose minutes at the forward position, relegating him to the backup guard position.

Valentine will likely be on the Bulls roster next year. He can play both the back up guard positions, which is an easy 15-20 minutes a game running the second unit. That being said, after next year, Valentine is a restricted free agent.

Depending on Valentin’s market value and the other extensions that have to be dished out to the other young guys, the Bulls may have a tough time justifying an extension for Valentine.

I can see two things happening with Denzel Valentine.

One is that they keep him for the duration of next season and depending on his productivity, decide whether to rescind or hold onto his qualifying offer. The other option is actively placing him on the trade market next year.

If Hutchinson pans out and they get an exciting young star, Valentine is very much expendable. With him being 25, turning 26 though, he’s still young and because of his versatility, will be a sought out role player for a contenting team. If the Bulls can get a solid guard, or some draft picks, then the bulls should pull the trigger.

I predict that the Bulls will try to trade Denzel Valentine at the trade deadline next year.