It’s no secret the Chicago Bulls are in the market for a rim protector and fortunately for them, Rudy Gobert could be on the move. With the Utah Jazz failing to find playoff success yet again, roster changes are expected. However, should the Bulls trade for Rudy Gobert?
The Reasoning for Yes
The Chicago Bulls struggled this season defensively, as they were 22nd in the NBA in opponent points in the paint. Moreover, Nikola Vucevic ranked 44th in the NBA in blocks per game.
These statistics help justify the need, but I believe many fans would agree that Vucevic is not an ideal rim protector. Although, how big of a difference would Gobert make?
In perspective, Rudy Gobert would make a massive difference to the Bulls. For starters, Rudy Gobert is a three-time Defensive Player of the Year and six-time First-Team All-Defense.
If the Bulls trade for Rudy Gobert, they would instantly become a top ten defense. To add on, if the Bulls had him against the Bucks, there’s a reasonable chance they might have pulled off the upset.
Also, having DeMar Derozan and Zach LaVine (if he re-signs), the Bulls can make up for Vucevic’s scoring.
Despite Rudy Gobert’s expensive contract, the Bulls could hypothetically match Gobert’s contract with players such as Nikola Vucevic, Coby White, and Javonte Green.
Reasons for No
My first reason will relate to recent history. Teams have found ways to get rim protectors for reasonable deals. This year’s free agency rim protectors include Mitchell Robinson, JaVale McGee, and Andre Drummond.
Furthermore, with Rudy Gobert, you not only have to pay him 40 million annually but have to trade away key pieces and draft picks.
Even though he has sustained plenty of recent success defensively, Gobert could start trending down soon, as he is turning thirty this month.
With all of this in mind, there’s uncertainty if Zach LaVine will re-sign. If he does not re-sign, the team would be in an awkward situation and be stuck with an aging Gobert for 40 million annually and a slim chance of having any playoff success.
Should the Bulls Trade for Rudy Gobert? My Opinion
In my personal opinion, the Bulls should pursue the possibility of Gobert, but most likely stay away. I do not expect Utah to move on from him unless they are getting an absurd amount in return.
More importantly, Gobert is too expensive for a player that is a liability. During the 2020-21 playoffs against the Clippers. For those who are not aware, the Clippers ran a five-out offense to make Gobert uncomfortable and it was successful.
Even though the Bulls’ fit with Gobert is hypothetically great, the team will likely search for a cheaper solution.
