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Chicago Bulls: It’s time to tank for Luka Doncic

By Michael RENE KANOY

CHICAGO, IL - JANUARY 13: Head coach Fred Hoiberg of the Chicago Bulls watches as his team takes on the Detroit Pistons at the United Center on January 13, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Pistons 107-105. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - JANUARY 13: Head coach Fred Hoiberg of the Chicago Bulls watches as his team takes on the Detroit Pistons at the United Center on January 13, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Pistons 107-105. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /
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If the Chicago Bulls are going to tank, and it seems like that’s the direction they’re headed, they should be all-in on Luka Doncic

Chicago Bulls point guard Kris Dunn is one of the most exciting young athletes on their roster, and he may be the future defensive, pass-first point guard that the team has always coveted.

However, because of the manner in which he plays – at times with all-our recklessness – it would be smart for the Bulls to have a backup plan in the even that injuries continue to plague his career.

The next best thing is to have a plan B.

Even though Ryan Arcidiacono has performed well during his time with the Bulls this season, it would be almost impossible for the Bulls to pass the opportunity to grab one of the most exciting guards in the 2018 NBA Draft class, should they land a top 5 pick.

And that is Luka Doncic.

Doncic is as good as advertised. Doncic is still only 18, but has shown the capabilities to hang with the best athletes from around the world – including those in the US. He can pass the ball like a young Steve Nash and can shoot like a red-hot Nikola Mirotic.

Because of his ball-handling skills and quick shot release (and range), Doncic is nearly unguardable in 1-on-1 situations or on the move.

He can ankle breaker, cross over dribble changing directions in traffic smoothly, or he can make hesitation moves controlling the ball with start-stop dribbles instinctively and throw off even the most athletic defender – skills that are taught and learned by the top US basketball recruits.

He doesn’t need to play intense defense all the time, but he can defend well enough, especially against small forwards, and he rebounds well enough for his size and playing position. He would be a breakout player in the NBA if given the playing time Lauri Markkanen got coming into this team.

The problem with getting Doncic outright may be the current position the Chicago Bulls are at.  Almost all teams in the top 8 have 2 or 3 losses separating them from the others which means it might take a really bad yearender for Fred Hoiberg‘s team to get to the top 3.

Phoenix, Dallas, Atlanta and Sacramento all look like they would take Doncic if they were in the top 3 lottery spots because of the sheer impact, a stud passing point guard who can score with range would make on their teams.

There may be more athletic playmakers in the top 10 of the lottery, who can score too like Colin Sexton and breakout phenom Trae Young.

But for one’s money, and at only 18 years of age, Luka Doncic and his size tops both players.

The Chicago Bulls are playing Cris Felicio and David Nwaba over Robin Lopez and Justin Holiday in the closing months before the end of the season, which practically guarantees the tank, unless the change sparks some inspired wins with the more athletic lineup.

Must Read: NBA: Breaking down the 2018 playoff race in the Western Conference

Luka Doncic is the type of talent that falls in line with what the Chicago Bulls are beginning to build. Dunn and Doncic on the same team is something plenty of Chicago Bulls fans should be salivating about.

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