Chicago Bulls: 4 scorching hot prospects to target at No. 38

Scorching hot draft prospects for the Chicago Bulls to target at 38: Herb Jones

Someone that really went from a likely undrafted free agent to a potential late first-round draft pick in the span of just months is the former underrated Alabama Crimson Tide senior forward Herb Jones.

If the Bulls do let the likes of fourth-year power forward Lauri Markkanen and even former Boston Celtics center Daniel Theis walk this summer, then there will be depth needed to be restored in the frontcourt unit. And landing a fast-rising prospect that still has some upside like Jones could be a good way for Karnisovas and the Bulls to go at No. 38.

Jones was a solid two-way forward for the Crimson Tide last season. But his offensive skill set isn’t likely something that will translate immediately to the NBA, despite his four years playing in Tuscaloosa. The defensive upside with Jones is sky-high given his gifted athleticism and solid 6-foot-8 and 210-pound frame.

As a dominant defender during his senior campaign at Alabama, Jones averaged 1.7 steals per game and 1.1 blocks. He could be a very pesky defender at the three or the four again in the NBA.

In a way, Jones is a similar player to that of the Portland Trail Blazers wing Derrick Jones Jr. The upside is certainly there for both of them, but the offensive games need polish. The good news for the former Crimson Tide forward is that he improved his three-ball to a clip north of 35 percent and he started to become more effective spotting up from two-point range last season.