One player from every NBA team the Bulls should pursue in free agency

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Mitchell Robinson, Chicago Bulls (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) /

Atlantic Division

Boston Celtics – Sam Hauser

I’m admittedly grasping at straws here because almost every piece of Boston’s NBA Finals core is guaranteed to return next season. If the Bulls were to sign someone from the Celtics this summer, I’d prefer it to be a developmental project like Sam Hauser instead of a low-end rotation player such as Luke Kornet. Hauser displayed a bit of potential in limited playing time this season, hitting 43.2% of his 3-point shots and making the most of his 6-foot-8 frame. How does a training camp deal sound?

Philadelphia 76ers – Paul Millsap

As you may remember, Paul Millsap was the target of many Bulls fans’ affection as the team looked to round out the roster with one additional piece. Looking back, that desire for Millsap was misplaced as he went on to have a very lackluster season in Brooklyn — then again, so did most members of the Nets roster. At the very least, Millsap would provide much-needed veteran leadership and be a mentor for this young Bulls core on a minimum deal.

Toronto Raptors – Thaddeus Young

Though if the Bulls are in the market for a locker room leader, I’d much prefer they target Thaddeus Young instead. Thad became a fan favorite in Chicago through his unselfish play and genuine love for being a part of the Bulls’ rebuilding process. If the Bulls are successful in re-signing LaVine this summer, I’m sure he’d love the opportunity to play with his long-time friend once again.

Brooklyn Nets – Nic Claxton

The Brooklyn Nets would likely keep Nic Claxton around if they could. As a restricted free agent, they have the ability to re-sign Claxton but do not seem to have the financial flexibility to make that happen. The Nets are already up against the luxury tax threshold with just Durant, Irving, Simmons, Harris, Curry, and Mills. They will need to let a good player like Claxton leave in free agency if they want to fill out their roster, and will likely look to replace him with Day’Ron Sharpe. That means Claxton could still be had for cheap.

New York Knicks – Mitchell Robinson

After last season’s trade deadline passed, a report leaked that the Bulls were interested in trading for Mitchell Robinson. Now that the big man is primed to hit free agency, Chicago could possibly acquire him without ever having to give up assets in a trade. Robinson would be a fantastic backup to Vucevic and could help finally solidify this team’s interior defense.