Chicago Bulls veteran forward Thaddeus Young could be one of the most valuable players in the NBA leading up to the March 25th trade deadline.
Bleacher Nation conducted poll in which executives labeled Young the player most capable of changing a playoff race outside of Washington Wizards star Bradley Beal.
Young quoted the piece on Instagram, though he made sure to point out he is currently hoping to help the Bulls fight for a playoff spot:
“I’m humbled and grateful,” Young said. “But as I have said, my focus is on what is here in front of me right now; and that is my team the @chicagobulls and our season.”
Young's Chicago tenure has been a tale of two seasons.
The Bulls signed him in the summer of 2019 after three seasons with the Indiana Pacers. Young struggled to adapt to a more perimeter-oriented role under former head coach Jim Boylen, but has excelled this season as an undersized forward capable of setting up teammates for easy buckets.
Young is averaging 11.9 points, 5.9 rebounds and 4.4 assists in 28 games with the Bulls. He spots cutters and even breaks down opponents off the dribble, also using his body to create space with rub screens.
The 32-year-old is a workhorse. The 5.9 rebounds might not seem overly impressive, but Young is averaging 2.4 offensive boards per game. He hunts second chance opportunities and fights past larger forwards. His tireless work ethic has resulted in ranking second on the team in value over replacement player (VORP).
Young is on an expiring contract, and–judging by the poll–could probably net the Bulls a good return. But he is also an imperative part of Chicago's playoff hopes, making the situation all the more complicated.
Follow Us
Subscribe