3 Chicago Bulls players who have earned contract extensions this season
Chicago Bulls players who have earned a contract extension this season: Derrick Jones Jr.
Acquired in the trade that sent Lauri Markkanen to Cleveland and Larry Nance Jr. to Portland, Derrick Jones Jr. was seen as little more than salary filler and an afterthought as the worst player in the trade. While the Bulls primarily made this deal to get Markkanen out of town, even the heavily-protected draft pick from Portland was seen as the more valuable asset when compared to Jones Jr.
However, on a team that prioritizes getting out in transition to maximize the talents of their quality playmakers and lob threats, Jones Jr. has found himself right at home. Derrick’s enormous frame and leaping ability have made catching lobs from Lonzo and put-back dunks on missed shots a staple of Chicago’s offense.
Since he only logs 17 minutes per game on average, his box score statistics might not jump off the page at you. However, Jones Jr. is currently averaging the highest points and the second-highest rebounds per 100 possessions of his career. Similar to fellow rotation member Javonte Green, he has been actively engaged on both ends of the court and perfectly fits the mold of a high-energy complementary player that helps Chicago’s stars thrive.
Jones Jr. has been versatile enough to play quality defense against the dominant forwards of the East like Kevin Durant, while also proving to be a surprisingly potent offensive option as a small-ball center in the pick and roll. Jones Jr. is currently posting the highest BPM of his career at 1.2, further indicating that he’s made a positive impact on the floor during the limited minutes he receives.
While his dunk contest win may feel like a decade ago, Jones Jr. is still just 24 years old and in the sixth season of his career. He’s now seasoned enough to help propel the Bulls to contention, while also being young enough to continue growing with Chicago’s core.
The Bulls should not have to break the bank to retain DJJ this summer, and I fear they’d be losing a deceptively important piece to this year’s team if they allow him to walk in free agency.