Backup centers to target stemming from Bulls rumors ahead of the deadline: Mike Muscala
There are multiple options that the Bulls could pursue on the trade block if they want to add a backup center at the deadline next month. The real problem is figuring out what angle they would want to take to make this happen.
If the Bulls wanted to go the route of adding a proven veteran that can help them space the floor and just take care of the basketball better, then a good option could be the Oklahoma City Thunder big man Mike Muscala. As one of the Thunder players that will likely be available at the trade deadline, it’s worth noting Muscala could be a realistic target for the Bulls.
The 30-year-old eight-year veteran Muscala has found a nice groove playing at the five with the Thunder. Most of his minutes in OKC came playing at the five in the last three seasons in the second and/or third unit. He’s shown during that time that he can be a decent rebounder, excellent floor spacer, and an underrated big man that thrives in pick-and-roll and pick-and-pop schemes.
Muscala does look to be a nice fit with second-year head coach Billy Donovan and the Bulls given their current offensive gameplan. He’s also played under the Bulls’ current head coach during Donovan’s final year as the Thunder head coach in 2019-20.
Moreover, the Bulls probably wouldn’t have to give up much to get Muscala to Chicago. Giving up forward Troy Brown Jr. might be all it takes to get Muscala from the Thunder. That could be the case since TBJ is on an expiring deal and Muscala still has two years left on his.
In all likelihood, the Bulls could find multiple trade targets from the Thunder. Two that really stick out, though, are forward Kenrich Williams and Muscala. But this conversation is particularly surrounding Muscala, who does look like he could provide value to the Bulls coming off the bench.