chicago bulls talen horton tucker Talen Horton-Tucker, a key contributor to the Los Angeles Lakers’ 2020 NBA Championship, is heading to the Eastern Conference with a new opportunity. The Chicago Bulls have signed Horton-Tucker to a partially guaranteed deal, marking a significant chapter in the 23-year-old guard’s career.
The news, first reported by NBA insider Shams Charania of The Athletic, brings Horton-Tucker back to his Chicago roots. After spending last season with the Utah Jazz, where he averaged 10.1 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, Horton-Tucker returns to his hometown team, potentially providing him with a fresh start and a chance to showcase his talents.
Horton-Tucker’s time with the Jazz saw him post a career-high 33.0 percent shooting from beyond the arc, although his inconsistency was a recurring theme. He was originally acquired by Utah in a trade that sent Patrick Beverley to the Lakers. Despite finding some success with the Jazz, Horton-Tucker’s fluctuating performance led to his departure.
In Chicago, Horton-Tucker joins a young team that isn’t expected to contend for the championship this season. This could work to his advantage, offering him the freedom to develop his game without the immediate pressure of a playoff push. His previous experience with the Lakers, where he played a crucial role in their championship run, gives him a unique perspective and resilience that he can bring to the Bulls.
During his time with the Lakers, Horton-Tucker made a notable impact in the 2020 playoffs, including a memorable performance in Game 5 of the Western Conference Semifinals against the Houston Rockets, where he scored nine points in just 10 minutes off the bench. At only 19 years old, he became the second-youngest player in NBA history to win a championship, contributing to the Lakers’ triumph over the Miami Heat.
Despite not fully realizing his potential just yet, Horton-Tucker remains an athletic guard with the ability to excel at the rim. His shooting from deep last season, though still a work in progress, has shown signs of improvement. If he can secure a spot in the Bulls’ rotation, it could provide a valuable opportunity for growth and development.
The Chicago Bulls’ decision to sign Horton-Tucker reflects their belief in his potential and their commitment to giving young talent a chance. As he settles into his new role, Bulls fans and NBA observers alike will be watching closely to see if Horton-Tucker can harness his abilities and make a significant impact in Chicago.
