3 former Bulls players worth bringing back in 2022 NBA free agency

1. Thaddeus Young

I solemnly swear to do my duty and continue writing about Thaddeus Young until he returns to the Chicago Bulls. I am determined to manifest this dream into reality.

Despite only playing two seasons in Chicago on some pretty terrible Bulls teams, Thaddeus quickly became a fan favorite, and for good reason. He did not languish over the fact he was spending the end of his prime on a rebuilding team. Instead, he embraced the situation as an opportunity to teach and assist in the development of the Bulls’ young core.

Granted, most of that young core has been waived or traded away by now, but it still speaks to Thad’s character and locker room. Also, the most important relationship he formed of all was with Chicago’s star Zach LaVine — the same Zach LaVine the Bulls are trying to sway to return on a long-term deal this summer.

As recently as February of 2021, LaVine even called Thad “the MVP of the team”. Zach’s relationship with Young has been well-documented ever since the two played together back in Minnesota, and I’m sure the two would delight in the opportunity to play together once again.

LaVine elaborated on that sentiment after an overtime win against the Pacers:

"“He can damn near average a triple-double. He makes up for our mistakes defensively, guards some of the best big men every night. Even if he’s undersized, he knows how to play tricks with them. He has been great for us. (Monday night), he showed that again with crucial plays — getting charges and rebounds, being physical. He’s the type of guy you love to have on your team.”"

If Zach loves having Thad on the team, I would love having Thad on the team. I would also love Zach to still be on the team. Please re-sign Zach. Please?

In all seriousness, signing Young is exactly the type of move the Bulls should make. This team struggled with having an outspoken leader during difficult times, and Young has a very strong track record of being that guy when under pressure. Similar to last summer’s free agent acquisition of Alex Caruso, players that can impact the game on and off the court are always worth having around.