Veteran Guard Kevin Huerter Seeks to Stay with Bulls Beyond This Season
Since joining the Chicago Bulls just before the trade deadline last season, Kevin Huerter has been a standout player in plus/minus ratings. Now 27 and entering his prime, Huerter hopes to continue his journey with the Bulls.
Huerter’s Impact and Experience
Huerter leads the Bulls in plus/minus since arriving in the three-team trade that sent Zach LaVine to the Kings in February. This marks his third team in the last five seasons, but he finally feels settled with Chicago.
Uncertainty About the Future
The challenge lies in whether the Bulls view Huerter as part of their long-term plans. Head coach Billy Donovan speaks highly of Huerter, suggesting a positive outlook. However, Huerter will become a free agent at season's end, and the Bulls’ roster includes at least six players with expiring contracts, including Coby White and Nikola Vucevic, making the situation complex.
Commitment to Winning
“I just want to be a part of winning basketball at this point of my career,” Huerter said. “Whether fans have liked it or not, Billy has preached that since I got here. Even when that [LaVine] trade happened, he was like, ‘I know who left the building. Are we going to be a team that folds, or are we going to try and make a push to the playoffs, get a little taste of that?’ The energy since I’ve gotten here hasn’t been, ‘Hey, we’re looking to take a step back.’”
Huerter understands the business side of the team but feels confident that Chicago offers the best fit for his skills and goals.
Author’s summary: Kevin Huerter, excelling since joining the Bulls, aims to remain in Chicago, driven by a shared commitment to playoff success despite impending contract uncertainties.