It appears the Chicago Bulls have made another move to bolster their roster this offseason. According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, the Bulls have signed a power forward Kenneth Lofton Lofton Jr. signed a one-year deal. Last season, Lofton split time between the Memphis Grizzlies, Philadelphia 76ers and Utah Jazz. Over the year, the 22-year-old averaged 4.6 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 21 NBA games. However, in four games with the Jazz, Lofton was able to showcase his talents. With Utah, Lofton averaged 13.8 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists per game. Additionally, he shot 60 percent from the field and 33.3 percent from three-point range.
Free agent Kenny Lofton Jr. signs one-year deal with Chicago Bulls, sources say @TheAthletic @StadiumLofton will compete for a roster spot in training camp. He has played 45 games in two NBA seasons. pic.twitter.com/2OXh9831ZI
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) August 16, 2024
Chicago Bulls reportedly signing power forward to two-year deal
Kenneth Lofton Jr. impressed in the G League last season
Lofton spent most of last season in the G League with the Delaware Blue Coats and Salt Lake City Stars. And while his NBA numbers were forgettable, the forward did well in the G League. In 19 total G League games last season, Lofton averaged 25.1 points on 56.4 percent shooting. He also averaged 9.5 rebounds, 4.3 assists, 1.1 steals and 1.3 blocks per game.
What Kenneth Lofton Jr. Will Bring to Chicago
On paper, Lofton is a very interesting player with a unique skill set. He stands 6’4” and weighs 275 pounds (although he has gained noticeable weight over the past year). While technically on the heavier side, Lofton has a fluid style of play. He is a solid scorer in the paint and in the post. Additionally, Lofton is a good rebounder and brings a lot of energy to the court. He is a very well-rounded player who has shown a lot of what he can do in the G League. Additionally, he is improving as a perimeter shooter.
It’s unclear where Lofton will fit in Chicago next season, but his versatility and potential should give him a chance to become a mainstay in the rotation.
Bulls offseason recap
The Bulls had a turbulent offseason this summer. They went from star DeMar DeRozan in a trade with the Sacramento Kings. Additionally, the Bulls also traded defensive stalwart Alex Caruso At Oklahoma City Thunder in exchange for Josh Giddey. Furthermore, Andre Drummond joined the Philadelphia 76ers, although they signed Jalen Smith of the Indiana Pacers to fill his role.
It also remains to be seen what the team will do with it Zach LaVine, Lonzo BallAnd Nikola VucevicFor months, these three have been the subject of numerous transfer rumors. However, for now, it seems that they will all be at least start next season with the Bulls.
Chicago has failed to make the playoffs the last two seasons. And there’s a good chance it’ll be the third time this season. Either way, their roster overhaul should be fun to watch next year.
