Chicago Bulls: 4 prize free agent targets to watch early in the playoffs

Grand prize Chicago Bulls FA targets to watch in the playoffs: Kawhi Leonard

About the most highly coveted looming free agent this offseason around the NBA landscape is a former teammate of Harrell’s and a two-time champ in superstar forward Kawhi Leonard. As the third player on this list with a looming player option, Leonard could be paid more than $36 million in his base salary next year.

The Clippers already signed Leonard’s star running mate, forward Paul George, down to a contract extension in the past year. Leonard wouldn’t be a free agent this offseason if he exercises his player option. But he might try to find a situation where he can wing another ring if the Clippers fall short again in the postseason.

Last year, the Clippers were one of the more disappointing early exits from the playoffs. Karnisovas’ former team, the Denver Nuggets, upset the Clippers in the second round of the playoffs in the bubble last year. This time around, the four-seed Clippers will be taking on the five-seed Dallas Mavericks and superstar point guard Luka Doncic.

Obviously, the Bulls could become title contenders right away if they were to somehow strike gold and get Leonard in free agency this offseason. A star trio that is rounded out by Leonard alongside shooting guard Zach LaVine and center Nikola Vucevic would be a dream in the Windy City. It’s one that is not likely to happen, but following what happens with Leonard in free agency is something that a lot of Bulls fans will be doing anyway.