New additions that could be long-term pieces for the Chicago Bulls: Alize Johnson
The most recent addition for the Bulls heading into this season that made this list is the former Brooklyn Nets and Indiana Pacers power forward Alize Johnson. The 6-foot-7 and 215-pound former Missouri State Bears standout forward is also one of the most underrated additions for the Bulls from the offseason.
The upward trend in Johnson’s game since the start of the 2018-19 season is tremendous. He’s gone from registering a poor -7.7 box plus/minus three seasons ago, to a solid 2.6 box plus/minus last season.
But it’s not just the all-encompassing advanced metrics that highlight why the Bulls should consider making Johnson a key part of this franchise over the long haul. It’s the upward trend in his game, combined with the cheap contract they have him on now, that makes Johnson an appealing option to keep in this frontcourt unit for at least a few more years.
The Bulls signed Johnson down to a two-year contract worth a total of less than $4 million this offseason. That is a really good value signing to add depth in a spot where the Bulls really needed help among the reserves.
If Johnson can continue to prove that he’s got an elite ceiling as a rebounder, while improving his shot selection, on-ball defense, and outside shooting, this could be a good long-term addition for the Bulls.