NBA Draft Grades 2016: Sixers, Nuggets Finally Get It Right

Jun 23, 2016; New York, NY, USA; A general view of a video board displaying all thirty draft picks in the first round of the 2016 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 23, 2016; New York, NY, USA; A general view of a video board displaying all thirty draft picks in the first round of the 2016 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
5 of 27
Jun 23, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Denzel Valentine (Michigan State) walks off stage after being selected as the number fourteen overall pick to the Chicago Bulls in the first round of the 2016 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 23, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Denzel Valentine (Michigan State) walks off stage after being selected as the number fourteen overall pick to the Chicago Bulls in the first round of the 2016 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Chicago Bulls

Draft Picks: Denzel Valentine No. 14, Paul Zipser No. 48

The future of Jimmy Butler looked to be the main focus of the last week, but when it was said and done, Derrick Rose was the one who was on his way to the Big Apple. By keeping Butler, the Bulls might not be in complete rebuild mode yet.

Along with grabbing some role players from New York, they selected Valentine out of Michigan State. While not the greatest athlete available, Valentine’s  IQ and leadership make him such a quality prospect. His passing, court vision and feel for the game make him a coach’s dream.

Zipser’s ceiling looks to be that of a role player.

It was time for the Rose/Bulls relationship to end and I give credit the Bulls for not jumping at any offer for Butler. I like Valentine as a solid, role player.

Grade: B

Next: Cleveland Cavaliers