2019 NBA Mock Draft: Will the Knicks’ big gamble pay off?

The unceasing confusion surrounding the Bulls’ long-term vision continued on Wednesday when they punted their cap space for the second consecutive summer by trading Chicago legend Jabari Parker and former first-round pick (and victor of the Nikola Mirotic standoff) Bobby Portis for the expensive Otto Porter Jr. Surely the Bulls would not have been a destination team this summer but this move seems to signal a desire on the team’s part to add assets based on fit rather than talent. Grabbing Porter on his salary means they clearly value him as a player (giving up Portis, who will be a restricted free agent this summer, shows this) and his fit in their core.

Yes, the Bulls needed defense and shooting at the other forward spot alongside Lauri Markkanen but they could have found that in the draft or trotted out cheaper, younger options and focus on development. Instead, Porter will be expected to patch that hole and help spur along the overall growth of the team because he fills a “need.” In reality, what this team needs is more talent, better coaching and a front office that knows what it wants to do. As currently constructed, Chicago has no clear path to winning a championship.

One way that could change is hitting on this pick, which will likely be the highest they’ve had since taking Derrick Rose first overall in 2008. Ironically, it could be another hyperathletic point guard who changes Chicago’s fortunes. The high-flying Morant is building himself quite a highlight reel and should the Bulls truly feel they should draft for need, a point guard who can set the table for Markkanen and Wendell Carter Jr. is a fine place to start.