Guard signing Tomas Satoransky will establish the two-way guard play so badly needed by the Chicago Bulls. After one of the poorest defensive seasons in recent memory, Satoransky’s addition will go a long way to plugging some of the holes on the perimeter.
Standing at 6-foot-7, Czech guard Tomas Satoransky can be part of the answer to the Chicago Bulls defensive woes. Signing a three-year deal in the off-season after a career year with the Washington Wizards, the 27-year-old can look forward to a larger role on an up and coming Bulls team.
Satoransky’s defensive prowess combined with strong play making and improved shooting will balance out the roster nicely. With young guards across the roster, his experience around the world will also help with development.
Thrust into a starting role when John Wall went down with a season ending injury, he took on tough defensive assignments while also playing off-ball when Bradley Beal became the go-to option.
A late starter in the NBA at 24, Satoransky has improved his game each year in Washington. Albeit in limited minutes, he also has playoff experience. This is key for a team that has a young core bereft of post season knowledge.
Satoranksy’s multi dimensional skill set raises the floor of this squad, and with free agency addition Thaddeus Young in tow, the Bulls can boast a lock down five man unit if needed in end of game situations. One of the best rebounding guards in the league, he can take on either bigger or faster guard assignments.
When John Wall was fit in Washington, Satoransky also some time at the three. This versatility will help with ball handling on the second unit and potentially gives this team the chance to go super small in certain situations.
Though coach Jim Boylen has stated that Kris Dunn will start at the point, its safe to assume that Dunn can move up to the two, meaning Satoransky can play either of the guard positions with the multitude of guards on the roster. His best fit would probably be with Zach LaVine, the contrast in their games making Satoransky a perfect fit with him in the back court.
Individually, Satoransky’s ability to create shots for himself from the most efficient areas on the court is a massive addition for this team. An elite finisher at the rim as a combo guard, he also excels from the three-point line to the tune of 40% in his career.
Though he has decreased his volume from the mid range he has a strong floater game and will use the mid range if the defense gives him this shot. His ability to get to the line will also be key for a Bulls team that finished 24th in free throw rate last season.
Satoransky will form a veteran group with Young and Otto Porter that can help the younger prospects reach their star potential. Though they may not return to the playoffs this year, he can a big part of the promising future of this team.