Bulls Sign Fan Favorite Big Man
By Cem Yolbulan
The Chicago Bulls made the long-anticipated decision to rebuild this summer as they parted ways with Alex Caruso, DeMar DeRozan, and Andre Drummond. Even though Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic are still in Chicago against all odds, the team is much younger and more exciting after finally embracing a direction.
As part of their future-focused offseason moves, the Bulls signed an intriguing free-agent big man. Kenneth Lofton Jr, who has long been a fascination among NBA fans, is signing a one-year deal with Chicago, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic.
Bulls News: Chicago Signs Kenny Lofton Jr.
Lofton possesses an intriguing skill set with an unorthodox physical profile. At 6-foot-6 and 275 pounds, Lofton is a lethal post player. He can pass the ball, score from the inside, and shoot the three at the same time. His offensive talent has been undeniable since he made a name for himself in the 2021 Under 19 World Cup with Team USA and entered the NBA in 2022.
Unfortunately, he hasn't been able to put it all together in the league so far. He spent the first two seasons of his career with the Grizzlies, Sixers, and the Jazz, playing in a total of 45 games. While he has been struggling in the NBA, he has been absolutely dominant in the G League, making the All-NBA G League first team for two straight seasons.
At age 22, Lofton still has plenty of upside and is a worthy flyer. There is a chance he will spend some time in the G League again next year but he should have a path to some playing time in Chicago.
If the Bulls were to move on from Vucevic at some point in the season, Lofton should find himself as part of the rotation along with new addition Jalen Smith and fellow undrafted big man Adama Sanogo.