Jabari Parker has found himself in an awkward position, as the Chicago Bulls forward has fallen out of the team’s regular rotation. It’s not uncommon for a player to have this happen to them after a coaching change, which has happened in Chicago as Jim Boylen took over for Fred Hoiberg, but Parker came to the Bulls hoping to revitalize his career with his hometown squad. Unfortunately for him, that hasn’t happened, and even though he’s optimistic he’ll get back into the rotation, it’s hard to see him sticking around beyond this season.
In fact, it’s possible that Parker doesn’t even finish out the year in Chicago. According to a report by K.C. Johnson of the Chicago Tribune, the Bulls have been in touch with a few NBA teams about possible trades for Parker. It’s not just a matter of Chicago kicking the tires on a deal, either, as Johnson reports there is interest in acquiring him.
Bulls have engaged in talks with several teams regarding Jabari Parker, per sources. There’s considerable interest in Parker the player. Finding right fit financially is next.
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) December 14, 2018
While Parker’s limitations on the defensive end of the floor are very real, he would be a sensible option for a team that could use a scoring punch, whether it’s as a starter, or more likely, in a reserve role. The good news is that Parker’s a relatively low-risk option, as his contract for next year includes a team option worth $20 million.
Would he single-handedly swing an NBA championship if he goes somewhere? Probably not, but it makes sense why a team would be interested in bringing him on board. Now, it’s a matter of figuring out if there’s a deal that the Bulls would accept and if Parker’s time in Chicago would come to an abrupt end.
