As the NBA Draft Combine continues in Chicago, there’s growing buzz surrounding where former North Carolina Tar Heels standout Caleb Wilson could land. One destination that keeps surfacing is the Chicago Bulls, who currently hold the No. 4 overall pick in the upcoming NBA Draft.
Many mock drafts continue to connect the 6-foot-10 forward to Chicago, especially considering the organization’s new basketball operations leader, Bryson Graham, and his preferred “SLAP” philosophy — Speed, Length, Athleticism, and Physicality. Wilson’s game appears to fit that mold naturally.
“He knows SLAP. He’s well aware. He talked to the Bulls and Bryson Graham and you can tell the local Chicago media was surprised when he threw that out there. But he seemed very receptive to it,” Bulls on SI publisher Elisa Schuster said during an appearance on 104.3 The Score.
Schuster also pointed out how Wilson’s athleticism has separated him from other elite prospects during combine activities.
“Obviously, we don’t get to see him in any of the scrimmages, he is too good to be competing in those scrimmages later in the week,” Schuster explained. “But he’s running all those combine drills, and it definitely takes a special athlete for you to really stand out in those combine drills. But when he steps up to do the max vertical, and he’s as big as he is and flying as high as he is, that stands out.”
The Chicago Bulls are a popular landing spot for Caleb Wilson
The connection between Wilson and Chicago continues to gain traction around the league. Isaac Trotter recently said the forward fits the Bulls “like a glove,” though he questioned whether Wilson will still be available once Chicago is officially on the clock.
“But will he get to No. 4 overall? It’s still the most likely outcome, but there’s no question that Wilson can surge even more with a strong week,” Trotter said. “He fits the profile of what each NBA team is looking for as a two-way wing with elite athletic tools and an insatiable desire to win. Can he vault past Peterson or Duke’s Cameron Boozer? It’s certainly not out of the question.”
With projected top selections such as AJ Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson expected to go early, the Memphis Grizzlies could become a major factor at No. 3 overall. Depending on their preference, the possibility of a draft-night trade with Chicago cannot be ruled out.
Beyond his on-court talent, Wilson has also impressed with his confidence and personality throughout the pre-draft process. Despite still being a teenager, the former Tar Heel has handled media attention with ease, bringing the kind of charisma and energy that could make him an ideal fit in a major market like Chicago.