What's Happening?
The Chicago Bulls have signed free agent forward Mouhamadou Gueye to an Exhibit 10 training camp deal, as reported by Keith Smith of Spotrac. This move comes as the Bulls prepare for the upcoming training camp, with all 21 roster spots currently filled. Gueye, a 6-foot-9 forward, went undrafted out of Pittsburgh in 2022 and has since played for various teams in the NBA G League, including the Texas Legends and the Capital City Go-Go. Last season, he was part of the Toronto Raptors' G League team, Raptors 905, and played 11 games for Toronto, averaging 2.4 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game. The signing of Gueye adds depth to the Bulls' roster, which already includes guards Caleb Grill and Wooga Poplar on training camp deals.
Why It's Important?
The signing of Mouhamadou Gueye is significant for the Chicago Bulls as they look to strengthen their roster ahead of the new season. Gueye's addition provides the team with more options in the forward position, potentially enhancing their defensive capabilities given his shot-blocking skills. The Exhibit 10 deal allows the Bulls flexibility, as Gueye could be promoted to a two-way contract if he impresses during training camp. This move also highlights the Bulls' strategy of exploring talent from the G League, which can be a cost-effective way to bolster the team without committing to long-term contracts. The Bulls' management, led by Arturas Karnisovas, continues to make strategic decisions to optimize the team's performance while managing salary cap constraints.
What's Next?
As training camp approaches, Mouhamadou Gueye will have the opportunity to showcase his skills and potentially earn a more permanent spot on the Bulls' roster. If he is cut before the season starts but logs 60 days with the Bulls' G League affiliate, the Windy City Bulls, he could earn a bonus of up to $85,300. The Bulls will need to evaluate their current roster and make decisions on whether to promote Gueye to a two-way deal, which would require cutting another player. The team's management will closely monitor Gueye's performance during training camp to determine his fit within the squad.
