After being recently inserted into the starting lineup and delivering with some exceptional performances, Tomáš Satoranský might be the point guard the Chicago Bulls need after all.
In the Bulls’ upset win over the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday, Satoranský put up an impressive 19 points and 11 assists, arguably his best game as a Bull. Ever since UNC product Coby White has sat out due to a combination of neck issues and the health and safety protocols, Sato has continued to solidify his already strong case to continue as the Bulls go-to point guard.
The Chicago Bulls chase for a point guard
It has been no secret that the Bulls are in a desperate search of the guard to partner Zach LaVine in the backcourt. And it can be correctly assumed that whomever the Bulls potentially do trade for, they will command some big bucks. Names such as Malcolm Brogdon to Lonzo Ball to even non-point guards such as Gary Trent Jr. have all been floated around.
But with Chicago committing a lot of cap to Nikola Vucevic, and with Lauri Markkanen’s impending restricted free agency, maybe a better option would be in-house and with Satoranský.
What can Tomáš Satoranský provide long-term?
While not carrying the defensive acumen as the aforementioned names, Satoranský more than makes up for it in his passing ability and shooting. Shooting a blistering 41.6 percent from three-point range this season, Satoranský allows the floor to be spaced more for Vucevic to work in the post.
And coupling that with his ball-handling abilities, it helps relieve pressure off LaVine to create everything on the perimeter, something no other Bull possesses at a high level.
On top of this, he is a relatively cost-effective option. Currently being owed $10 million for both this and next season, he allows the Bulls to have a stable play at the guard position, while not breaking the bank.
With an All-Star already in the backcourt, there’s no need to go break the bank for a second one there, but rather mold the squad around both LaVine and Vucevic with that money.
Of course, with all this being said, the Bulls can still trade or sign another guard in free agency. But it’s hard to look past Satoranský’s strong play this season. And for all it’s worth, it may have given him the starting job permanently.