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The Chicago Bulls finally traded their star Zach LaVine after years of speculation that he would be on the move.
The Bulls sent LaVine to the Sacramento Kings for a package of Tre Jones and Zach Collins, who they received from the Spurs, and Kevin Huerter, who is coming over from the Kings.
Out of those three, Huerter is the centerpiece of the deal and should be a major contributor to the Bull’s offense for the rest of the season.
The Chicago Bulls promising new guard
Huerter is the most intriguing player in the deal, with the 6-7 shooting guard offering more of an offensive upside. The Maryland product appeared in 43 games for the Kings this season, where he averaged 20.9 minutes. In those 20.9 minutes, Huerter scored 7.9 points, 2.8 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 0.8 steals a game.
Huerter should see the same amount of minutes, possibly getting some starts depending on matchups. The Bull’s current option at shooting guard is Lonzo Ball, who is drawing a lot of interest on the trade market.
In 15 games as a starter this season, the Albany, New York native proved capable of hanging with the best on the court. Averaging 28.9 minutes, Huerter scored 10.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 2.3 assists.
Huerter will be a key part of the rebuild
When looking at the Bull’s depth chart, Huerter will slide into the Bull’s second team to go on the floor. Huerter, 26, will be a key part of the Bull’s offense as they need to find new scoring options to replace Lavine’s 24.0 points a game.
According to HoopsHype, the scouting report on Huerter lists him as a two-guard, who has underrated athleticism and is capable of scoring off the dribble.
“2-guard with great size at 6-foot-7… Specializes as a three-point shooter… But can ballhandle a bit… Quick, high release that he can get off with a hand in his face… But also effective scoring off the dribble… So he’s not just a spot-up shooter… Can score out of the pick-and-roll… Underrated athleticism… Moves well off the ball.”
A possible centerpiece for the Bulls
Huerter is currently under contract for this season and next season before he becomes an unrestricted free agent.
Huerter will have the rest of this season and next season to show he can develop into an offensive threat and live up to his scouting report if he wants to stick around long-term.
The rebuild is fully underway and the Bulls will now look to building a better team for next season.
More must-reads:
- Nikola Jokic’s agent sparks LeBron James to Denver speculation with Instagram post
- Bulls sign HC Billy Donovan to multiyear extension
- The 'NBA Summer League MVPs' quiz
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