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Is Kyle Filipowski the Big Man the Bulls Need?
By Matt Berklan,
21 days ago
Mar 31, 2024; Dallas, TX, USA; Duke Blue Devils center Kyle Filipowski (30) controls the ball against North Carolina State Wolfpack forward Mohamed Diarra (23) in the second half in the finals of the South Regional of the 2024 NCAA Tournament at American Airline Center.
Photo&colon Kevin Jairaj&solUSA TODAY Sports
The Chicago Bulls have several needs, and perhaps the most important is a future big man. If they address the position with the 11th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, Duke’s Kyle Filipowski may be what they're looking for.
Nikola Vucevic and Andre Drummond served as Chicago's centers this past season. Entering the second season of a three-year contract extension, Vucevic will likely be on a downward trend as he turns 34 in October. Drummond enjoyed a nice season as the Bulls' backup center, which should result in an offer to play elsewhere as a starter.
With the Bulls already committed to Vucevic, Drummond's price tag will likely be out of Chicago's range. Drafting a big man could bring much-needed athleticism to the center position at a low cost and begin the transformation of the Bulls' frontcourt.
Enter Kyle Filipowski.
A hard-working, no-nonsense big, the former Blue Devil has great mobility and body control for his size. Filipowski's footwork near the rim helps him excel in the paint offensively. The Westtown, New York native is fundamentally sound on the boards and possesses good court vision for his position, which is why coaches love him.
During his two seasons at Duke, Filipowski averaged 15.8 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game.
How Would Kyle Filipowski Fit into the Bulls Roster?
Nov 14, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Michigan State Spartans guard Nick Sanders (20) defends Duke Blue Devils center Kyle Filipowski (30) during the first half at United Center.
Photo&colon David Banks&solUSA TODAY Sports
If the Bulls were to select Kyle Filipowski, they'd be getting a fairly NBA-ready big man. As the Bulls look to retool their roster, adding Filipowski would give them a seven-footer to help solidify the center and power forward positions.
Backing up Vucevic would provide Filipowski an opportunity to learn from the veteran while injecting hunger and youth into Chicago's frontcourt. Additionally, he'd provide depth at power forward behind Patrick Williams. If Williams continues to struggle or battle injury issues, Filipowski's presence would enable the Bulls to employ a bigger lineup with the rookie alongside Vucevic.
While Filipowski may never become a number-one option, he's a solid prospect whose adjustment period shouldn't be tumultuous, which could help the Bulls win now.
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