The Chicago Bulls have balked at the idea of a full rebuild, though there have been plenty of rumors and speculation about a possible Zach LaVine trade this summer.
If the Bulls can’t get that done, running it back with a similar team is not out of the question, especially if they bring back DeMar DeRozan, which has also been widely speculated.
If these two are on board, Chicago is trying to win now, so may make corresponding moves to bring in more veteran help.
One area they could use some is at point guard, where the Bulls didn’t have a real table setter last season.
It’s possible Lonzo Ball will be that guy, but the Bulls can’t count on that, and even if Ball comes back healthy, it’s doubtful he’ll be able to take on a huge role with heavy minutes, at least not right away.
So, signing another veteran point guard does make some sense and a recent article had a surprising one in mind.
Chicago Bulls free agents: Chris Paul
A recent article in ESPN (subscription) named Chris Paul as a possible free-target for the Bulls, saying the Warriors could waive him and his $30 million salary, effectively making him a free agent.
Even though Paul is 39 years old, he’d still have suitors, especially on a more reasonable contract for his age and production. The man can still run an offense without turning the ball over much, can still knock down 3-point shots and can still at least play pesky team defense.
These are all things the Bulls need, and a role with Lonzo Ball where neither of them had to play big minutes might be ideal.
Teams like the Clippers and Lakers may also call about Paul if he hits free agency, so the Bulls definitely wouldn’t want to get into a bidding war, but on a one-year deal with incentives, Paul could help bridge the gap between Lonzo Ball and whoever comes next.
Paul came off the bench for Golden State, so may be comfortable in that role again in Chicago, as the Bulls are not going to give Coby White’s minutes to a guy pushing 40.
If the Bulls are going to stubbornly run it back, then they may as well try to take advantage of DeMar DeRozan’s window. On the right deal, Paul could help, though Bulls fans certainly wish we were talking about the Chris Paul of 3-4 years ago.