Chicago Bulls Rumors: Making sense of all the pre-draft chatter
Draft rumors
Rumor #1
History has a funny way of repeating itself, and this year may be a perfect example for that for the Bulls. Remember last year when, before the draft, reports circulated that the Bulls promised to select Chandler Hutchison with the No. 22 pick if he was still available? You may have dismissed it as nonsense, but then it happened.
Well, this year, the player reportedly promised by the Bulls is point guard Coby White. The point guard from the University of North Carolina had a fine season last year averaging 16 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 4.1 assists.
Verdict: Reality
This one may be true for a couple of reasons. Obviously, the Bulls have a history of promising to draft a particular player, so the fact that such a rumor is out there isn’t crazy as there is precedent out there. Second, White would fill an obvious need for a team looking to upgrade at the point guard position. Finally, he is the point guard most likely to be available at No. 7 with Garland and Ja Morant likely off the board. There are a lot of factors working in favor of this one.
Rumor #2
A recent rumor that has some Bulls fans scratching their head involves them possibly being linked to Jaxson Hayes out of the University of Texas. The 6-foot-11 (with a 7-foot-4 wingspan) is long on potential but short on experience, having only played one season at Texas.
While not a disqualifying condition as many players have gone the one-and-done route and been instant stars in the NBA, Hayes needs significantly more seasoning. According to NBADraft.net, he’s a ways away from making a meaningful impact on the court.
Verdict: Rumor
This one is tough to get behind. First, Hayes does not fill a need for the Bulls who already Have Lauri Markkanen and Carter at the power forward position.
Second, selecting Hayes at No. 7 would be a significant reach, so if they are considering Hayes, they would first have to trade back in the draft, in my opinion.
Finally, he is years away from contributing significantly on the court. With the No. 7 overall pick, you want a guy who is going to make a contribution sooner than that. But then again, GarPax is capable of anything.