The Chicago Bulls, holding the 12th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, are seeking a transformative talent to bolster their roster as they pivot toward a youth-driven rebuild. Derik Queen, a 6-foot-10 center from Maryland, has emerged as a prime candidate due to his unique blend of post-scoring, playmaking, and rebounding. This article evaluates Queen’s background, skills, fit with the Bulls, and potential impact as a lottery pick.
Derik Queen’s Background and Skill Set
Profile: A Baltimore native, Queen earned Big Ten Freshman of the Year and first-team All-Big Ten honors at Maryland. He measured 6’9.25” barefoot, 247.8 lbs, with a 7’0.5” wingspan at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine.
Stats (2024-25): Averaged 16.5 points, 9.0 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 1.1 blocks, and 1.1 steals per game, shooting 52.6% from the field, 20% from three, and 76.6% from the free-throw line.
Offensive Strengths: Excels in the post with advanced footwork and a soft touch, averaging 0.918 points per possession on post-ups. His playmaking (58 assists to 52 turnovers at Montverde) and ability to facilitate from the high post or elbows draw comparisons to Alperen Sengun and Nikola Jokic.
Defensive Capabilities: Uses his wide frame to contest shots and secure rebounds but lacks elite rim protection (1.1 blocks per game). Shows flashes of perimeter defense but needs to improve lateral quickness.
Why the Bulls Are Interested
Team Context: After trading Alex Caruso, DeMar DeRozan, and Zach LaVine, the Bulls are rebuilding around young talents like Coby White, Josh Giddey, and Matas Buzelis. Queen could replace Nikola Vucevic as a long-term center.
Fit: Queen’s playmaking complements Chicago’s guard-heavy core, while his rebounding addresses a key weakness. His post-scoring provides a reliable interior option, and his youth aligns with the team’s timeline.
Strategic Value: Selecting Queen could allow the Bulls to trade Vucevic’s expiring contract, accelerating their rebuild with additional assets.
Strengths
Post Scoring: Polished footwork and versatility in the post make him a reliable scorer.
Playmaking: Rare vision for a big man, capable of initiating offense and making highlight-reel passes.
Rebounding: Dominant on the glass with strong hands and positioning (9.0 rebounds per game).
Physicality: Sturdy frame and 7-foot wingspan allow him to compete in the paint.
Areas for Improvement
Three-Point Shooting: Limited to 20% from three; needs to develop a consistent outside shot.
Rim Protection: Lacks elite shot-blocking due to below-the-rim finishing and modest athleticism.
Defensive Versatility: Must improve lateral quickness to handle pick-and-roll and perimeter defense.
Conditioning: Needs to enhance agility and stamina for NBA pace.
Fit with the Chicago Bulls
Queen’s playmaking and post-scoring would enhance Chicago’s offense, creating opportunities for Giddey and White. His rebounding addresses a team weakness, though his defensive limitations require a strong system and complementary players. Pairing him with a rim-protecting forward could maximize his impact.
Draft Outlook
Projected as a lottery pick (No. 5 to No. 12), Queen’s stock rose after a 27-point NCAA Tournament performance. ESPN’s post-combine mock draft has him joining the Bulls at No. 12, a fit praised for addressing frontcourt needs.
Conclusion
Derik Queen’s combination of offensive polish, playmaking, and rebounding makes him an ideal target for the Chicago Bulls at the 12th pick. While his shooting and defensive versatility need refinement, his high floor and upside position him as a potential cornerstone. If the Bulls can harness his talents, Queen could be the diamond in the rough that propels them back into NBA relevance.