The exploits of Denzel Valentine at Michigan State while playing under Tom Izzo have been widely explored and for good reason. The guard was deserving of every accolade that he was given over his time in East Lansing and proved that he can be a more than capable all-around player against the highest levels of competition. The quandary, of course, comes with the fact that he stayed all four years in college and may not have the upside of other prospects despite his obvious talent and the likelihood that he’ll succeed immediately in the NBA.
Though it may seem curious to have Valentine going to the Chicago Bulls, a team that already has a pretty good shooting guard in the form of Jimmy Butler, it’s a pick that makes sense given the versatility of both Butler and Valentine. Valentine could come off the bench and serve as the primary ball-handler for the second unit or could back up Butler or could play alongside Butler on the wing.
Either way, this is a pick about adding quality depth to the backcourt, something that the Bulls desperately need to do at this point. As such, taking Valentine here would be the right call in my view.
Next: No. 15 Nuggets, No. 16 Celtics