Targets that won’t break the bank No. 4: Josh Hart
Chicago and New Orleans have been linked in various rumors over the last two seasons. Most of those involved Ball and still do. But given his turnaround this season and how well his game can mesh with just about anyone, maybe the Pels hold off. Instead, what about Josh Hart, the other piece that came from the Lakers.
Hart had a career-scoring year in his first season in the bayou; averaging 10.1 PPG on 42.3 percent shooting and 34.2 percent from deep. His scoring is down (9.3 PPG) but so are his attempts. He’s actually been more efficient from the floor overall thanks to shooting over 60 percent inside the arc.
Hart’s biggest contribution is on the defensive end of the court. Said Lonzo of his teammate:
"“Me and (Hart), we’re looked upon to guard the stars of the other team pretty much night in and night out,..”"
Hart has a reputation for his toughness on defense; another area where the Bulls have been exposed at various points in the season. Some might even describe him as an irritant or pest, but in the way that you love when he’s on your team and hate him on the other. Either way, it’s a skillset the Bulls don’t have and could use. There aren’t many vocal leaders on this team either.
With New Orleans going 3-3 coming out of the All-Star break, they might opt to see where this season finishes. They’re currently 11th in the West but just three games behind the Warriors who just lost Stephen Curry to a tailbone injury for the ninth spot and a play-in game.
Only the Memphis Grizzlies would stand in their way and only because of an extra win. The Pelicans match up well with them though they only face each other once more.