Ian Mahinmi (Photo : NBAE via Getty Images)
The Chicago Bulls could look at Indiana Pacers big man Ian Mahinmi as an addition to their frontcourt rotation, with Pau Gasol and Joakim Noah expected to leave the team in free agency.
The Bulls will be among the teams looking for a big man this summer as they try to fill in the void Gasol and Noah would presumably leave once free agency starts in July. According to Bleacher Report's Adam Fromal, Mahinmi could be a likely signing for the Bulls this summer, with the 29-year-old center could offer remarkable defense for Chicago.
Mahinmi, who is set to become an unrestricted free agent after finishing his four-year $16 million contract with the Pacers, has become an integral part of the team's success this season. The Frenchman started all 71 games he played, while averaging a career-high 9.3 points and 7.1 rebounds.
There is a growing sense that Mahinmi, after an improved season with the Pacers, could draw interests from teams like the Bulls, who are sorely looking for frontcourt help. While the likes of Hassan Whiteside, Al Horford and Dwight Howard would probably intrigue the Bulls, they only have a projected max salary cap space of $23 million to pursue free agents. This makes Mahinmi one of the most ideal big men the Bulls should pursue in the summer market.
SB Nation's Blog A Bull writer Jay Patt believes the Bulls could offer Mahinmi something in the $10-$12 million range annually, which gives Chicago enough room to pursue veteran free agents.
However, there are rumors that Mahinmi, who was effective under Frank Vogel's helm, could consider reuniting with his now former coach in Orlando. During his introductory news conference with the Orlando Magic, Vogel revealed the type of free agents the team should pursue this summer, which may have hinted to David West or Mahinmi, two big men he fully-utilized in Indiana.
"Well, we need some tough guys. Some tough guys that are leaders, and I think bringing in a guy that has a presence about him that the younger players will respect, both with his presence, his voice, his approach," Vogel said.
"But also the ability to kick some tail on the court, to deliver on the court, that's the best way to lead."
The Bulls should have a chance at signing Mahinmi, although Chicago should also expect stiff competition for the service of the Pacers center.
