The Chicago Bulls have some serious decisions to make this summer. While some are speculating that they could look to blow up the roster, Arturas Karnisovas’ comments after the season indicate otherwise. He wants to compete, and he wants to do it with the current iteration of the roster.
If that’s the case, then some big changes will be needed. Chicago needs to add better big man depth, more forwards, and, arguably most importantly, a starting point guard. With Lonzo Ball sidelined, they have no go-to player at the one. As the offseason gets underway, Chicago should consider bringing Russell Westbrook in to be that guy.
When most fans think of Westbrook, they think of the Los Angeles Lakers version. The version that was traded away. The version the Lakers were better without. But Westbrook actually had a productive end of the season with the LA Clippers.
In 21 games with the Clippers, Westbrook averaged 15.8 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 7.6 assists per game on 48.9 percent shooting from the field and 35.6 percent shooting from deep.
The last time Westbrook was on a team where he could be the primary ball-handler night in and night out for a full year, he willed a subpar Washington Wizards to a playoff appearance with an incredible late-season push.
Chicago could allow Westbrook to be the best version of himself. They could put the ball in his hands and allow him to create for Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan.
And on top of that, the Bulls desperately need more veterans on the roster. They need players who can mentor their youngsters, and they would be hard-pressed to find someone who works harder, plays harder, and is a better veteran than Westbrook.
Chicago is the perfect landing spot for Westbrook, and as long as he doesn’t command too big of a contract, the Bulls should look to bring him in.