Jeff Hanisch – USA TODAY Sports
When free agency started this year, the Chicago Bulls were one of the few teams that did not have much cap space to make a big splash; they just needed to add a few pieces to fill out their roster. The Bulls needed a veteran player who could shoot from long range, create off the dribble, and was a good passer.
They found that guy in Mike Dunleavy Jr., who can do all of those things. Dunleavy played for the Milwaukee Bucks last season, averaging 10.5 points, 3.9 rebounds and 1.9 assists. He also shot 44 percent from the field and 43 percent from three-point territory.
The Bulls needed some help off the bench after losing Marco Belinelli and Nate Robinson to free agency. Those guys were able to attack the rim off the dribble and knock down shots from outside. The Bulls did not have many players that could do those things, so the Dunleavy signing was very important.
Dunleavy brings some leadership to the Bulls’ locker room. He’s an 11-year veteran whose only played in nine playoff games for his career. He’s much respected around the league. This is an opportunity for him to contribute for a championship contending team for the first time.
Dunleavy is a perfect fit for the Bulls. He’s always been considered a “glue guy,” a player that can stick anywhere and help a team out. Dunleavy brings his three-point arsenal to the Bulls, which will help them out tremendously. He will get the opportunity to get a lot of open looks from the play making ability of superstar point guard Derrick Rose.
Putting together Dunleavy and the Bulls should work out like a perfect marriage; they both needed each other. Dunleavy wanted to play for a contender that plays deep in May and June, and the Bulls were looking for a three-point shooting wingman to bring some firepower off the bench. Everyone got what they wanted; now it’s time to deliver.
Courtney Harden is a Chicago Bulls writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @courtney110979, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.
