Chicago Bulls: An early look at 5 free agents to pursue
By Ryan Heckman
Center Clint Capela, Houston Rockets
Age: 23
Experience: Four seasons
Type of free agent: Restricted
2017 averages: 13.9 points, 10.8 rebounds, 1.9 blocks in 27.5 minutes per game
Out of everybody on this list, my favorite player is right here with Clint Capela. Like I said earlier, the Bulls need someone to lock down the center position, in my opinion. I don’t see Lopez as a long-term solution, and neither should the Bulls.
With a physically gifted, strong big man like Capela next to Markkanen, it gives the Bulls a really unique pairing up front. Capela is one of the top rebounders in all of basketball and has proven to be a fantastic defender. The Bulls could use a force in the paint, and I’d love to see them throw a bunch of money his way come July.
The problem may end up being, though, that he is restricted. The Houston Rockets have a lot of talent, and will face a decision with Chris Paul this offseason. Do they have the money to keep their roster intact? It’s highly unlikely they can get both Paul and Capela to return while staying under the cap, so this will be a situation to monitor.
The Bulls, meanwhile, could offer Capela just about whatever he would want — within reason — and still be able to keep LaVine. For a 23-year-old dominant defensive-minded center, I’d say go for it.