The Chicago Bulls are banking on newly acquired swingman Isaac Okoro to reshape their defensive identity after landing the 24-year-old from the Cleveland Cavaliers during the offseason.
Okoro, drafted by Cleveland in 2020, saw his role shrink to a career-low 19.1 minutes over 55 games last season, dipping to 14.2 minutes per night in the playoffs. “I wanted a change,” he said. “It’s a new chance for me to rebrand myself and bring the leadership I learned in five years with Cleveland.”
Chicago sent veteran guard Lonzo Ball to the Cavaliers in the one-for-one deal. Head coach Billy Donovan called the swap mutually beneficial, noting Chicago needed more physicality while Cleveland sought additional backcourt stability after last season’s injuries. “We needed some physicality, and Isaac brings that,” Donovan said.
White targeting mid-October return
Guard Coby White continues to rehab a calf strain suffered in August. Donovan said White has resumed running and shooting, and the team hopes he can play in the final preseason game on October 16 and be available for the regular-season opener six days later. Repeated attempts to ramp up activity led to recurring tightness, prompting the medical staff to shut him down temporarily.
Buzelis, Kawamura shine in preseason action
Second-year forward Matas Buzelis impressed against Cleveland on Tuesday, posting 19 points and eight rebounds in 18 minutes while challenging big men Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen at the rim.
Two-way point guard Yuki Kawamura, the NBA’s shortest player at 5-foot-8, dished out five assists in a little more than 14 minutes. “I love the system,” Kawamura said, adding that Chicago’s up-tempo style suits his game.
Windy City Bulls add assistant GM
The organization also bolstered its G League front office, hiring former NBPA director Justin Jackson as assistant general manager of the Windy City Bulls.
Source: HoopsRumors
