Bulls' former first-round pick inks deal with West playoff contender

Ivan White

Bulls' former first-round pick inks deal with West playoff contender image

This offseason has been relatively quiet in Chicago, but some former Bulls are making some noise.

The past few weeks have seen plenty of rumors about the Bulls but little action. From potential big trades to Josh Giddey’s looming extension, Chicago has been a team looking to make things happen.

While almost nothing has materialized for the Bulls this summer, one of their former young stars has secured his spot on a roster for next season. On Monday, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that the Sacramento Kings are signing Doug McDermott to a one-year, $3.6 million deal for next season.

Of course, the Kings have stocked up on former Bulls over the past year, most notably with the separate additions of DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine. Next season will mark McDermott’s second season in Sacramento after playing in 42 games for the franchise in 2024-25.

Best known for his outside shooting ability, McDermott has turned into a journeyman at this stage of his career. Set to turn 34 years old next season, McDermott’s journey in the league has stretched over a decade after beginning his career with the Bulls in 2014-15.

Fresh off winning National Player of the Year in college, McDermott went 11th in the 2014 NBA Draft, with the Bulls trading up on draft night to secure his services. Across two-and-a-half seasons in Chicago, McDermott had some struggles to stay on the floor, but flashes of his shooting greatness would be enough to get him opportunities, which has remained the case to this day.

Ivan White

Ivan White is a freelance writer with The Sporting News. A 2024 graduate of Oklahoma State University. Ivan has covered the Oklahoma City Thunder for Sports Illustrated since 2023. As The Sporting News, Ivan will cover the NBA, MLB, and more.