Former Chicago Bulls who are surprisingly still free agents

The Chicago Bulls have had a quiet offseason. They re-signed Nikola Vucevic, added two role players in free agency, and worked out a new deal with Ayo Dosunmu. Point guard Lonzo Ball will miss the entire season (subscription required), but the Bulls are running it back with a few minor tweaks in hopes of getting to the playoffs and making a deep run.

Chicago was not shy about bringing back their talent, but several former players remain free agents. The Bulls added depth and improved their bench this summer, but that meant letting players at the end of their bench go. They still have one open roster spot, but the free agent market has all but dried up. Does Chicago fill it or just enter the regular season with just 13 healthy players and an injured Lonzo?

There are a handful of former Bulls searching for a gig next season, including a fan-favorite. Not all are shocking, but here are four that are unbelievably still on the market.

Former Chicago Bulls who are surprisingly still free agents

4. Taj Gibson

Gibson was drafted 26th overall by the Bulls in 2009 and immediately became a key contributor. The 6’9 forward spent seven and a half seasons in Chicago where he became known for his defense and efficient play on both ends of the floor. Gibson’s nicknames, “Lunch Pail” and “Hard Hat”, tell fans all they need to know about his style of play.

He was traded to the Thunder in 2017, and the 38-year-old has played for four different teams since leaving Chicago. Last season, he was an end-of-the-bench option for the Washington Wizards.

Taj Gibson continues to find work as a strong locker room presence that adds experience and leadership. He does not have to play minutes to make an impact on the team, but the Wizards are entering a rebuild and focusing on young talent. Can Gibson find a role at the end of someone’s bench? Do not be surprised to see him land a gig somewhere before training camp begins.