Two low-key big men who could help the Chicago Bulls

These pick-ups could help the Bulls.

© Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago Bulls appear to be bent on bringing back the core of the team that failed to make the NBA Playoffs. With the Bulls executive Arturas Karnisovas leaning on “continuity,” it means the team will most likely have its “Big 3” of DeMar DeRozan, Zach LaVine, and Nikola Vucevic back for another go at playoff relevancy.

However, it doesn’t mean that the Bulls can’t make any roster changes. They have struggled with rim protection and interior defense in the past seasons, mainly because Vucevic—as superb as he is on offense—isn’t that good on the other end of the floor. That said, here are two low-key big men that could have a significant impact on the Bulls if they manage to add either one.

Wenyen Gabriel

Los Angeles Lakers big man Wenyen Gabriel is not the most polished big man out there. Far from it, actually. But what he lacks in fluid post moves, he more than makes up for with sheer energy and athleticism.

Gabriel can get up and down the court with ease, making him an ideal “small-ball” center for a Bulls team that wants to push the pace. Additionally, Gabriel is also excellent at cleaning up on defense, thanks to his length and tenacity. He averaged 1.2 blocks per 36 minutes this past season, indicating his potential to be an effective defensive sentinel.

Chimezie Metu

With Domantas Sabonis soaking up all the minutes in Sacramento, Metu played a mere 10 minutes per game this past season. However, he made the most out of the playing time he received from head coach Mike Brown, helping the Kings’ second unit with his efficient shotmaking. How efficient was the 26-year-old? He shot 58 percent from the field.