Veteran forward Thaddeus Young, who's about to embark on his first season with the Chicago Bulls, says he's ready to take on a leadership role and hopefully push the young team over the hump.
Per Joe Cowley of the Chicago Sun-Times, the 31-year-old Young shared that being the leader of a team is not a new role for him. He has experienced being a key pillar on the other teams he has played for. More often than not, Young has proven he can get the job done:
‘‘I’ve taken on that role plenty of times in my career,’’ Young said of being deemed the leader on and off the court. ‘‘I’ve taken on that role as a leader and helping shape and build a culture. I know I can push them over the hump.’’
The Bulls are Young's fifth team as he heads into his 13th season. Over the summer, he inked a three-year, $41 million deal. Analysts quickly deemed the deal as a key addition for the struggling organization. Last season, the Bulls won just 22 games and finished 13th in the East, making it the second consecutive season of failing to qualify for the playoffs.
In his NBA career, Young has made the playoffs eight times. On all the teams he has played for, he has predominantly been a starter and a key part of the team's offense and defense. Coupled with his knack for the ball and 6-foot-8, 221-pound frame, Young has proven to be a great player in his own right.
The Bulls expect Young to share the lessons he has learned over the years with the young players on the team. The veteran will come off the bench in Chicago behind young star Lauri Markkanen.
Hopefully, Young's contributions will help the Bulls get back into playoff contention.
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