4 Ceiling raisers the Bulls should trade for before February deadline

2. Onyeka Okongwu

On paper, Onyeka Okongwu is the perfect forward to pair next to Vucevic. He stands 6-foot-8 and weighs 240 lbs. He has the potential to improve more in a defined role that the Bulls could offer. He has great size to protect the rim and could serve as a rim runner on offense. Currently, Onyeka Okongwu is averaging 9.6 points, 6.7 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and a block in 24.9 minutes per game.

The Bulls could use some help rebounding and earning more possessions to score more on the fast break. He's athletic and moves great laterally to engulf the space between him and the player he is defending. The Hawks heavily rely on Clint Capela and his pick-and-roll chemistry with the guards, which has significantly impacted Onkongwu's opportunity to shine.

Meanwhile, Jalen Johnson is also showcasing his skill and producing in his enlarged role. The 20th overall pick in the 2021 draft is averaging 15.4 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 3 assists in his new role and I'm sure the Hawks love that. The Hawks have some big wings they could use in smaller lineups with Jalen Johnson and Clint Capela at the forefront of their team.

Onyeka is earning $8 million, but that figure will rise to $15 million next season with his extension kicking in. A very manageable contract and his skill set could be very valuable for our team. The Bulls possess their first-round pick this year as well as a top-14 protected pick from the Blazers. Offering up one of those, plus Dalen Terry and Jevon Carter, could get the job done because they could use some assistance on the defensive end from the guard position. Dejounte Murray hasn't been the same defender as years prior and Trae Young is a minus on that side of the ball.