Bulls should consider returning NBA champion center to bolster frontcourt

The Chicago Bulls are looking for centers, and a 7-footer with an NBA championship under his belt is available on the free agent market.

Chicago will enter free agency on Sunday assuming neither Andre Drummond nor Nikola Vučević will be on the roster in October.

July will therefore be the time for the Bulls to sign at least two new pivots.

Chicago is linked to young centers like Jalen Smith, James Wiseman and Xavier Tillman. It would also behoove the Bulls to consider Daniel Theis if the above options become unavailable.

Another hidden gem at center is Luke Kornet of the Boston Celtics, who becomes an unrestricted free agent on Sunday. Kornet previously played for the Bulls and was traded to Boston during the 2021-22 season.

Kornet, 28, is a rim protector and excellent screener who has provided crucial rotation minutes for the Celtics all season.

Kornet is also an underrated lob threat who fits well into what appears to be a guard-heavy Bulls rotation in 2024-25.

With playmakers like Josh Giddey and Lonzo Ball frequently entering the paint, defenses will collapse during Chicago’s penetration, creating alley-oop opportunities for a player like Kornet.

Fresh off an NBA title, Kornet would also bring championship experience to a Bulls locker room trying to build a winning culture.

Chicago could go in many directions during free agency, but the Bulls would be wise to keep a close eye on Kornet.

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