History proves Bulls Shouldn’t take second round pick for granted.
The Chicago Bulls, like many NBA teams, have gone through a variety of ups and downs over the years, and the value of draft picks has always been at the center of their roster-building strategy. While much attention often falls on the high-profile first-round picks, history shows that second-round selections should never be taken for granted. Over the years, the Bulls have made their share of mistakes, but they’ve also found unexpected gems in the second round that contributed significantly to the team’s success.
To understand why the Bulls should treat second-round picks with more importance, it’s essential to look at some of the most notable players the team has selected outside of the first round. Historically, the second round has offered opportunities for teams to find players who could either contribute immediately or develop into valuable assets over time.
A History of Successful Second-Round Picks
One of the most significant second-round picks in Bulls history came in 1993 when they selected Luc Longley with the 29th overall pick (which was technically a second-round pick at the time, with the expansion draft creating more teams and adjusting the draft order). Longley would go on to become a key member of the Bulls’ dynasty, helping Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen win three consecutive NBA championships in the 1990s. While Longley wasn’t a star in terms of individual accolades, his defensive presence and ability to contribute in the post helped stabilize the team during their championship runs.
Another standout second-round pick for the Bulls came in 2004, when they selected Kyle Korver at the 51st overall pick. Korver would later become one of the best three-point shooters in NBA history, and his shooting ability allowed him to carve out a significant career in the league. Though Korver’s impact on the Bulls was relatively brief, the team benefited from his shooting during his time in Chicago, and he helped transform the game in terms of spacing and shooting, a trend that has now become a cornerstone of modern NBA play.
More recently, the Bulls found Taj Gibson with the 26th pick in the 2009 draft, a pick that has been viewed as a steal. Gibson quickly became a fan favorite in Chicago for his gritty defense, energy, and leadership off the bench. While he wasn’t always the flashiest player, Gibson’s consistency and toughness made him a staple in the Bulls’ rotation for years. His contributions, particularly during the 2011-2012 season when the Bulls finished with the best record in the league, were critical for the team’s success.
The Importance of the Second Round Today
In the modern NBA, second-round picks are often seen as long-term projects or potential trade assets. However, as teams increasingly focus on player development and analytics, there is growing recognition that these picks should not be dismissed. With the rise of international scouting and the influx of young talent from overseas, second-round picks have the potential to deliver immediate contributions or future value, even if the player isn’t an immediate star.
For the Bulls, this could be particularly important moving forward. They are currently in a position where they are rebuilding and looking for ways to add depth to their roster. The right second-round pick could provide the team with a low-cost, high-reward option that might not only offer a rotational player but could potentially become a key contributor in the future.
Why the Bulls Shouldn’t Take Second-Round Picks for Granted
Looking at the Bulls’ history, there are some examples of the team not fully capitalizing on second-round picks. There have been times when the team has used second-round selections on players who either didn’t develop or simply didn’t fit the team’s needs, which is often the risk with these later picks. But with the way modern scouting and player development work, it’s more than possible for the Bulls to unearth another hidden gem.
First and foremost, second-round picks carry substantial value for a team like the Bulls that is aiming to build for the future. Whether it’s a potential rotational player, a trade asset, or a diamond in the rough, the team should approach the second round of the draft with a mindset of maximizing the value of each selection. Even if these players don’t become stars, a good second-round pick can provide immediate depth, or more importantly, increase the team’s overall flexibility.
Additionally, NBA teams are more reliant than ever on player development. With advanced analytics, coaching, and performance optimization, even players who fall to the second round can be molded into impactful contributors. The Bulls have a history of doing well with second-round picks, but if they take this round more seriously and put more time and resources into developing these players, they could avoid future regret, as they have in the past with players like Gibson, Korver, and Longley.
Conclusion
In conclusion, history proves that the Chicago Bulls should not take second-round picks for granted. While these picks might not have the glamour of a top-tier first-round selection, they have the potential to contribute significantly, as shown by the team’s past successes. As the NBA continues to evolve, so too does the importance of finding value in all rounds of the draft. If the Bulls are going to rebuild successfully, a focus on maximizing every draft pick—especially those in the second round—could prove essential in shaping the team’s future.
