Chicago Bulls: Pursue or pass on 10 notable free agents

6. SG Josh Jackson

2019-2020 Numbers

9.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 0.8 steals in 17.3 minutes

44% from the field

If there is one thing that’s certain about Josh Jackson during his first stint in NBA free agency, it’s that he will come cheaper than one would have predicted back in 2017 when he was drafted with the fourth overall pick by the Phoenix Suns.

The Suns quickly gave up on Jackson after two seasons, and in Memphis, he played mostly for their G League team before being called up and given another shot. It’s very rare you see a top-5 pick fall off so quickly like Jackson — to the point where they’re playing in the G League just two seasons after being drafted.

The hope that Chicago would have for Jackson is that he’s in a different frame of mind now as a free agent. He has to know that this might be his last chance to prove he’s worthy of a long-term spot on a roster. At 6-foot-8, Jackson presents an ideal frame for today’s small forward. He very well could develop into what the Bulls have lacked — a defensive-minded perimeter defender who also has the ability to score when called upon.

If Karnisovas offered Jackson a 1-year deal with incentives, that may be the route to go. Seeing Donovan coach this roster for a season before making any big moves might be the right decision, and Jackson could become another decision for this organization next offseason.

Verdict: Pursue