Chicago Bulls big board for 2018 NBA Draft

5. Center Mo Bamba, Texas

The closer we get to the draft, the more I love the idea of Mo Bamba in a Bulls uniform. At one point, he was projected to go between no. 5 and no. 9 by most outlets, but now, his stock has continued to rise.

Real quickly, let’s remember one thing: As other players’ stock continue rise, that can only mean one thing — the Bulls will get someone they really, really like at no. 7.

Physically, there might not be a more impressive player in this year’s class than Bamba. The 7-foot center out of Texas measured a ridiculous 7-foot-10 wingspan at the NBA Draft Combine a couple of weeks ago, which set a record.

Bamba is by far and away the best defensive big man in the class. He averaged a double-double last year, while also posting nearly four blocks per game (3.7) in 30 minutes per game. To put it in perspective, that would equate to roughly five blocks per 40 minutes. Defensively, we know his potential is that of an NBA Defensive Player of the Year.

Offensively, Bamba shot over 60 percent inside the arc last year. His jump shot looks to be better than other big men and he definitely has a feel for finishing around the rim. All he really needs to do is put on a little weight and he could be one of the best centers in the game for a long, long time.