Chicago Bulls: 3 middling players that could hit the trade block

Middling Chicago Bulls players that could hit the trade block: Al-Farouq Aminu

A player that was often discussed for the Bulls this week is the veteran former Orlando Magic forward Al-Farouq Aminu. When the Bulls landed Aminu from the Magic at the trade deadline, he figured to be a support piece to help the deal move along. But Aminu looks like he will exercise his player option and return for the Bulls heading into next season.

There was also a consideration that Aminu would opt out of the final year of his current contract to try and get a longer deal with the Bulls, or with another interested team. Aminu still brings a decent amount of value to the table given his defensive ability and his veteran presence.

Yet, Aminu is due an eight-figure salary next season which is likely going to be a lot more than his production and role are worth to the Bulls. Donovan only played Aminu in six games post-trade deadline down the stretch in the season that was.

And in those six games played, Aminu averaged 1.5 points per game, 3.2 rebounds, 0.3 assists, 0.3 steals, and no blocks. Aminu shot just 20 percent from the field, 12 percent from beyond the arc, and 80 percent from the free-throw line.

If Donovan plans on keeping Aminu around in a bigger role next season, then his contract could be more worth it to the Bulls. But if the Bulls are only going to give a third unit (or lower) spot to Aminu in the rotation, then his contract will be one that is bloated and weighs down the team’s cap sheet.