CHICAGO _ When the Bulls traded Jimmy Butler to the Timberwolves last June, a top-three pick seemed a likelihood and certainly an internal topic of discussion. Instead, the Bulls outperformed in December and dropped one spot via the draft lottery to own the No. 7 pick in the NBA draft.
Executive vice president John Paxson has stated the franchise's two biggest draft needs are a "D-and-3" wing and a versatile big man. Along those lines, here are the top-five prospects at those positions. And yes, the Bulls would have to trade up if landing several of these names is in their plans.
Given their public stance on displaying patience with the rebuild, not to mention owning the No. 22 pick as well, trading up Thursday would be a surprise. Thus, some choice of Wendell Carter Jr., Mikal or Miles Bridges and possibly Mo Bamba or Michael Porter Jr. seems to be on tap.
