Meet Chicago Bulls Second Round Pick Daniel Gafford

A lot of talk has been going on about Chicago Bulls first-round draft pick, Coby White. Though the second round pick the Bulls made could turn out to be a great selection. Arkansas Power Forward/Center, Daniel Gafford could anchor the Bulls bench with great interior defense.

Gafford was impressive at Arkansas and averaged impressive numbers during his two years in the Southeastern Conference.

John Paxson said this about the big man.

“He’s a defensive rolling center, high energy, can run the floor,” Bulls vice president of basketball operations John Paxson said of Gafford, who was taken 38th overall. “He’s very athletic. His rebounding numbers, analytically, his shot-blocking numbers were really high. He played in a really difficult conference and produced.

“He’s a young man that’s going to have to earn his stripes. But we like him as a basketball player.”

 Gafford isn’t as polished as former Razorback and Chicago Bull, Bobby Portis but he has a very high motor and can help improve the interior defense. At one time, Gafford was regarded as a potential lottery pick in the 2019 NBA Draft.

With the selection of Gafford, Robin Lopez may not be returning to the team. Also, another thing to note is that if Cristiano Felico doesn’t improve, Gafford will take his minutes.

At Arkansas Gafford has shown tremendous athletic ability and above average defensive play. He needs to work on his offensive game such as post moves and a jump shot, but with his high motor, he could be an impact bench piece moving forward.

The Chicago Bulls had a very impressive draft taking high ceiling players that also addressed their needs. If Gafford can develop his offensive game, he can play a vital role in the future.

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