Chicago Bulls player grades: Daniel Theis

With an underwhelming end to the Chicago Bulls 2020-21 season, expectations were high for trade deadline addition Daniel Theis. Thanks to the Boston Celtics, the Bulls inherited a polished veteran presence who is a fierce and dominant big man.

Adding a more physical rim protector and solid offensive player gave the Bulls a much-needed boost in the interior. The Bulls new addition had an instant impact, he completely changed the narrative for the Bulls as well as adding a big man who isn’t afraid to get physical down low.

Although the Bulls missed the play-in tournament, Theis was a huge spark. He showed a variety of skills along with a willingness to sacrifice his body on the defensive end. With multiple line-ups due to injuries and being moved around in the rotation, Theis displayed a multitude of skill-sets he can bring to the court on both the offensive and defensive ends.

With limited playing time on Boston’s bench, Theis was an unknown name to some fans coming to the windy city. He changed fans’ mindset on him in his first appearance as a member of the Bulls. The Bulls were considered a delicate group. Before Theis, they lacked physicality, most noted was the need for interior defense, not to mention that opponents were scoring in the paint with ease.

Daniel Theis Player Grade: B

I struggled to give Theis an A only because we weren’t able to see the whole finished product, only a sample size of what could be. The Bulls battled injuries and never put it all together this season. With that said Theis only improved the interior defense and added a multidimensional aspect to the team with his ability to out rebound, out defend and stretch the floor.

Although his stat line isn’t overwhelming, Theis showed grit and leadership. He can guard multiple positions, is an excellent shot-blocker, and can spread the floor with his outside shooting. In just 23 games with the Bulls Theis averaged 10 points per game on just over 50 percent shooting. His 5.9 rebounds and just under 1.8 assists per game were just a small sample size of his potential.

What’s next for Chicago Bulls center Daniel Theis

Theis has all the skills and basketball IQ to play a more instrumental role if the Bulls can find a way to re-sign him in the offseason. With more minutes and a possibility of being in the starting line-up next season, Theis has a high ceiling and his numbers will only get better with more minutes and a more defined role on the offense.

One of the team’s biggest question marks this summer is the extension of Theis. His veteran presence and physicality could be important for the Bulls moving forward. he should be a starter if he is retained by the front office. My guess Theis will be a priority for Vice President of basketball operations Arturas Karnisovas.

I expect some of his numbers to double if he finds his way back to Chicago. With a Nikola Vucevic and Theis frontcourt, the Bulls will be in a much better position to compete for a playoff run. It’s been four years since the United Center has hosted a playoff game.

Expect for that drought to end in the 21-22 season. Theis will play a huge role in the resurgence of the Chicago Bulls playoff hopes. Daniel Theis was a steal at the trade deadline and retaining his services will be more serviceable than letting him walk in free agency. He will be a walking double-double for the Bulls as well as a leader both on and off the court.