Jul 11, 2015; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Bobby Portis (5) looks over his shoulder after a foul is called during an NBA Summer League game against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Thomas & Mack Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
AM: Bobby Portis was a player that I know fans of the Bucks and many others really wanted on draft night, so there’s a consensus that Chicago may have gotten a real steal. What are you looking to see from him?
MW: This is a tricky situation for Portis. I loved the pick on draft night and yes, it did seem like a steal. Joakim Noah and Pau Gasol aren’t getting any younger, Taj Gibson is coming off ankle surgery, and with Hoiberg’s quicker-paced system, Nikola Mirotic and Bobby Portis could be the frontcourt of the future for the Bulls.
But, when everyone’s healthy, the frontcourt is arguably the deepest in the NBA, and there may not be much playing time for Portis early on. The thing that makes me feel better about Portis’ progression is that Hoiberg was able to see what he can do in Vegas and he had to love what he saw.
For me, I just want to see Portis’ game develop on both ends, along with being a high-motor guy off the bench. I want the fans’ expectations to be realistic with him. Give him time to get a feel for the NBA game (unlike many have with Doug McDermott).
Next: Which Bull Should We Be Looking Out For?