Kenneth Lofton Jr. #34 of the Utah Jazz
The Chicago Bulls continue to tweak their roster ahead of the 2024-25 season, despite already filling 15 standard contract slots. The latest move saw the Bulls sign former undrafted free agent Kenneth Lofton Jr., who will compete for a roster spot during training camp.
Lofton, a 22-year-old forward/center, comes to Chicago with two seasons of NBA experience under his belt, having played 45 games across stints with the Memphis Grizzlies, Philadelphia 76ers, and Utah Jazz. The Bulls signed him to a one-year deal, as first reported by Shams Charania of The Athletic.
This signing adds another layer of intrigue to Chicago’s frontcourt rotation, which already includes Patrick Williams, Torrey Craig, and Jalen Smith. The Bulls’ roster was relatively undersized last season, and while Lofton doesn’t add much in terms of height—standing at 6-foot-7—his bulk and skill set could prove valuable. Listed at 275 pounds, Lofton offers a physical presence and an efficient offensive game, particularly in the paint where he thrives at creating his own scoring opportunities.
Lofton’s performance in the NBA G League has been impressive. During the 2022-23 season, he averaged 20.2 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 3.9 assists over 17 games, earning Rookie of the Year honors. His production in the G League highlights his potential to contribute at the NBA level, especially for a Bulls team looking to balance its guard-heavy roster with more frontcourt options.
While Lofton will start behind established players like Williams and Craig, as well as Smith and second-year big man Adama Sanogo, his versatility and strength could make him an important piece if he impresses during training camp. Sports Illustrated’s Alex White noted that Lofton’s ability to score in the paint and rebound effectively, coupled with his passing skills, gives him a unique combination of attributes that could benefit the Bulls.
Despite his size, Lofton has shown an ability to stay fit and effective, as seen in offseason workout videos where he appeared in trimmer condition. His skill set could complement Chicago’s frontcourt, especially if the team looks to move on from veterans like Nikola Vucevic to focus on younger talent. Vucevic, who is entering the second year of his three-year, $60 million deal, could be traded as part of the Bulls’ efforts to retool the roster.
With the addition of Lofton, the Bulls have nine guards and five big men, potentially setting the stage for more moves before the season begins. Whether Lofton can earn a spot on the final roster remains to be seen, but his signing certainly adds competition and depth to a team looking to make noise in the Eastern Conference.
