2018 NBA Mock Draft first round plus OKC Thunder picks
Duke. Wendell Carter Jr.. 7. player. 24. . C
Although I could just as easily see the Bulls go with Michael Porter Jr. here I think they refrain from their propensity to select MPJ who projects to be more of a stretch four or even small forward. That would mean having two almost identical players with Markkanen at the four already.
After fisticuffs between teammates last season it’s doubtful even the Bulls who seldom seem to care about player comfort will risk upsetting Lauri. Furthermore, Carter is a beast who played in the shadow of Bagley and will be a nice fit alongside Markkanen.
Full prospect preview here: Wendell Carter Jr. could be next Nikola Jokic
Team needs:
It seems the Bulls are content playing upstart Lauri Markkanen at power forward and would love to pair a talented center beside him. Additionally, Chicago is always eager to fill the well up with wings, so don’t expect them to veer away from that path now that the NBA is playing postionless ball and the middle segment of rosters being oh so important to teams’ abilities to guard several positions or play small.
Free Agents:
- Zach LaVine (RFA)
- David Nwaba (RFA)
- Noah Vonleh (RFA)
- Ryan Arcidiacono (RFA – 2-way FA)
Picks in 2018 NBA Draft:
First Round: 7th and 22nd
Second Round: none