Chicago Bulls: 5 big name free agents to target this summer

Big name free agent targets for the Chicago Bulls: John Collins

One other player, like Lowry, who was looking to be moved prior to this year’s trade deadline is Atlanta Hawks power forward John Collins. The 23-year-old is likely on his way out of Atlanta this summer, even though he’s of restricted status.

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The Hawks reportedly offered Collins a $90 million contract extension at one point last year, but Collins rejected it and expressed his desire to be paid max money. Prior to the trade deadline, the Hawks and Minnesota Timberwolves were rumored to be in talks for a deal involving Collins but couldn’t come to an agreement.

By all accounts, Collins will be in a new uniform next season. If the Bulls decide to part ways with Lauri Markkanen, Collins could be an option. He would form a killer duo in the front court with Nikola Vucevic.

This past season, Collins posted averages of 17.6 points, 7.4 boards, 1.0 block and shot 39.9 percent from three. Basically, Collins has become what the Bulls were hoping to get out of Markkanen for a few years now.

Signing Collins would mean the Bulls have to go cheap at other positions this offseason, particularly the point guard spot. Either that, or they draft competition for Coby White in a couple of months. Regardless, the Bulls’ big three of Collins, Vucevic and LaVine should make them a fun team to watch next year.