The Chicago Bulls have made a strategic roster move, agreeing to a two-way contract with forward EJ Liddell, according to league sources who spoke with HoopsHype. The 6’7”, 240-pound forward brings a blend of strength, versatility, and potential that could make him a valuable asset for the Bulls as they aim to solidify their rotation for the upcoming NBA season. Liddell’s signing highlights Chicago’s focus on building depth and developing young talent who can make an impact in the NBA and their G League affiliate, the Windy City Bulls.
EJ Liddell entered the NBA with high expectations after a stellar college career at Ohio State, where he emerged as one of the best players in the Big Ten. In his junior season, he averaged 19.4 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game, showcasing his ability to contribute on both ends of the court. Despite his impressive college resume, Liddell faced challenges transitioning to the NBA level, particularly due to injury concerns. A torn ACL suffered during the 2022 NBA Summer League set back his progress, raising questions about his durability and fit in the league.
After spending time recovering and working his way back into shape, Liddell’s opportunity with the Bulls represents a chance for a fresh start. The two-way contract allows him to split time between the NBA roster and the G League, giving him valuable minutes to develop while also providing depth to the Bulls’ frontcourt.
Liddell’s versatility as a forward makes him a compelling option for the Bulls. At 6’7” and 240 pounds, he has the strength to guard bigger players in the post, but his mobility allows him to switch onto quicker players on the perimeter. His defensive prowess was one of the standout aspects of his game at Ohio State, where he used his athleticism and wingspan to contest shots and protect the rim. This defensive versatility could make him a useful piece in Chicago’s rotation, especially in matchups where the Bulls need to bolster their interior presence.
Offensively, Liddell brings a diverse skill set. He has the ability to stretch the floor with his shooting, showing range from beyond the arc during his college career. In addition, his post-game and mid-range shooting can add a different dimension to Chicago’s offensive sets. If he can translate his college scoring touch to the NBA, Liddell has the potential to provide the Bulls with much-needed scoring off the bench, particularly in small-ball lineups.
The two-way contract is a low-risk, high-reward move for the Bulls. It allows them to evaluate Liddell’s progress without committing a full roster spot, giving him the opportunity to prove that he can make an impact at the NBA level. Under the terms of the two-way deal, Liddell can spend up to 50 games with the Bulls while also playing a significant role for the Windy City Bulls in the G League. This setup is particularly beneficial for a player like Liddell, who is looking to regain form and confidence after a lengthy injury recovery.
For the Bulls, adding Liddell provides depth to their forward rotation, which includes established veterans like DeMar DeRozan and emerging talents such as Patrick Williams. With a focus on making a push in the Eastern Conference, the Bulls need a roster that can withstand the rigors of a long NBA season. Liddell’s presence gives them an additional option to call upon in case of injuries or matchup-specific needs, while also ensuring that the Windy City Bulls have a player who can develop in a competitive environment.
For EJ Liddell, this agreement with the Bulls represents a critical opportunity to prove himself in the NBA. His college career showed flashes of a player capable of impacting games at a high level, and now, with the Bulls, he has a platform to show that his skills can translate to the professional game. The key for Liddell will be demonstrating his ability to defend against NBA-caliber players, maintain consistency in his shooting, and adapt to the speed of the game.
If Liddell can seize this opportunity, he has the potential to earn a more permanent spot on the Bulls’ roster in the future. His journey so far has been marked by resilience and determination, and the Bulls’ decision to bring him in speaks to their belief in his upside.
The signing of EJ Liddell to a two-way contract by the Chicago Bulls is a strategic move that aligns with the team’s goal of building depth and developing young talent. It offers Liddell a chance to prove himself at the NBA level while providing the Bulls with flexibility in their roster. As Liddell works to make his mark, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see if this promising forward can become a key contributor for Chicago in the seasons to come. With the potential to add value on both ends of the floor, Liddell’s journey with the Bulls could be one of the more intriguing storylines to follow as the 2024-2025 NBA season unfolds.