Overview

• Bulls hold the No. 12 overall pick and may trade Nikola Vucevic to open a spot for a defensive center
• Last season’s defensive lapses in the paint and on the perimeter have made rim protection and switch-capability top priorities
• Maryland’s Derik Queen is valued for his playmaking big-man profile despite questions about his NBA-level defense
• France’s Noa Essengue and Duke’s Khaman Maluach appeal for their blend of athleticism and shot-challenging skills
• Chicago also controls the No. 45 pick, has two roster openings and plans to extend guard Josh Giddey’s contract