USA Today via Reuters
Nov 1, 2021; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Chicago Bulls forward DeMar DeRozan (11) shoots during the second half against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Paul Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports | Courtesy: Reuters
USA Today via Reuters
Nov 1, 2021; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Chicago Bulls forward DeMar DeRozan (11) shoots during the second half against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Paul Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports | Courtesy: Reuters
The Chicago Bulls have commenced their 2021-22 season in fine style. Having discovered their best possible side very early, their stars are clicking in tandem. Head coach Billy Donovan seems to have worked a lot with the team, which is showing in their results. To make matters worse for the rest of the Eastern Conference, the men in red are all set to sign a former NBA star. In fact, the player is a former Golden State and Lakers guard-forward.
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The brand new acquisition, is none other than former Lakers attacker Alfonzo McKinnie. While the Bulls are already a strong squad, they can do with some experience and bench strength. Currently, the franchise is being spearheaded by prolific trio of DeMar DeRozan, Lonzo Ball and Zach LaVine. However, with DeRozan now missing in action, they need a replacement of sorts. Having been a part of some quality setups in the past, McKinnie may be the perfect substitute.
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Chicago Bulls on the verge of signing Alfonzo McKinnie
McKinnie originally played for the Toronto Raptors. Season after season, he kept changing franchises, ultimately landing at LA last year. After a timid outing, the 29-year-old left the NBA to play in Mexico. It turns out that it is only going to be a short stint however, as the Bulls have apparently recalled the ex-Laker. Although McKinnie’s numbers in America’s top flight aren’t the best, he has had a great outing overseas.
The Chicago Bulls are signing veteran G/F Alfonzo McKinnie via hardship exemption, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. McKinnie has played for NBA G League’s Mexico City Capitanes this season, averaging 24.1 PPG and 43.3 percent from 3-point range.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) December 10, 2021
According to the reliable Shams Charania, Chicago is going to sign Alfonzo via hardship exemption. This means that the Bulls will be the fifth NBA franchise for the experienced campaigner. As far as his numbers are concerned, he averages around 4 points in his NBA career. On the other hand, his G-League statistics suggest something else. Playing for the Capitanes, he has averaged 24.1 points, shooting at over 43% from long range thus far.
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Alfonzo McKinnie will thus be a potent short-term option for the Bulls. With the consistent numbers he has been putting up, he can drain out the opposition off the bench. Can the Bulls manage a top-2 finish this season? Only time will tell.
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