Chicago Bulls: Jabari Parker signing should be viewed as positive

The Chicago Bulls signed former Milwaukee Bucks and hometown guy Jabari Parker to a two-year deal worth up to $40 million. The acquisition has come with much negativity, but here’s an optimistic view of the signing.

When the Chicago Bulls rescinded the qualifying offer to David Nwaba, it was rumored that a move was coming. That move was signing Jabari Parker to a two-year $40 million contract. The Bulls saw an opportunity to get a young player with a lot of potential. Once the Milwaukee Bucks rescinded the qualifying offer, the Bulls jumped.

The move has come with justifiable criticism from Bulls fans. The pink elephant in the room is the two ACL repairs on the left knee. Fans still are haunted by Derrick Rose’s knee problems and are holding out hope Zach LaVine doesn’t suffer through the same process.

Also, there’s the question of where he fits on the roster. Parker has made his living playing the four position. With Lauri Markkanen a lock at there, the Bulls envision Parker at the three position. While he should have no problem getting buckets on the offensive end from that position, defending quicker opposing wings will be a challenge.

Now that I gave you the cons of this signing, let me give you the pros, of which there are many more. Parker when healthy is a 23-year old all-around offensive player. He has drawn comparisons to Carmelo Anthony because of his ability to score from anywhere on the court.

Having Parker and LaVine on the perimeter, two guys that can put the ball on the floor and create their own shot has its benefits. Markkanen should see better looks from the outside spotting up. It also should give Parker and LaVine more room to drive to the basket.

This signing is a low-risk/high-reward move since the second year is a team option. If Parker has a very solid season; proves to be that second perimeter option or at best first, the Bulls pick up that second year. If he gets injured or just simply struggles in Fred Hoiberg‘s system, they can cut ties.

Next: 3 players most affected by Jabari Parker move

On essentially a one-year deal returning to his hometown, Parker will have every incentive to prove he can be an all-star level guy in this league.