The Chicago Bulls have started the season well, currently sitting eighth in the Eastern Conference with a 6-5 record. Much of their early success has leaned heavily on a breakout year from Josh Giddey, who is impressively averaging a near triple-double with 21.4 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 9.3 assists.
With Giddey and Matas Buzelis forming a promising young core, and uncertainty surrounding Coby White’s long-term future, the Bulls could be looking to add another guard to solidify their backcourt depth. Although it is still early in the season and draft projections are expected to shift dramatically over the next few months, the latest Bleacher Report mock draft presents an intriguing option for Chicago.
### Bulls Rumors Highlight Bennett Stirtz As A High-IQ Fit For Chicago’s Backcourt
Jonathan Wasserman’s mock draft has the Bulls selecting Iowa point guard Bennett Stirtz with their upcoming pick. Stirtz stands out as one of the more polished guards available in this draft range, and it is his steadiness and basketball IQ that make him an appealing fit for the Bulls.
Wasserman notes that Stirtz “operates as both a lead ball-handler and connector,” bringing reliable shooting, excellent decision-making, and the ability to organize an offense effectively. He gained attention last season by scoring 21 points in two consecutive NCAA Tournament games. Following that impressive performance, Stirtz transferred to Iowa to take on a bigger role and face tougher Big Ten competition.
With advanced ball-handling skills, a sharp shooting touch, and a strong feel for the game, Stirtz is entering this year determined to prove his ability to produce consistently at a higher level.
### Why Bennett Stirtz Fits Chicago’s Long-Term Plan
The Bulls may be searching for guard depth this offseason, and Stirtz offers a low-maintenance skill set that complements the playing styles of both Giddey and Buzelis. He is not a player who needs constant touches to make an impact—he moves the ball quickly, makes smart reads that keep the offense flowing, and his shooting ability helps space the floor for Giddey’s drives.
While Stirtz is not known as a top-tier athlete, Wasserman highlights his “creativity, shotmaking, and overwhelmingly strong analytics” as key reasons why teams will overlook that limitation.
What makes Stirtz particularly valuable for Chicago is his ability to play within a structured offense. He shoots well enough to keep defenses honest and can efficiently run second-side actions without disrupting the team’s overall flow. For a Bulls squad building around two young creators, Stirtz offers the kind of connective tissue the backcourt currently lacks.
### What’s Next For The Bulls?
The Bulls’ season is still young, and their standing in the league will likely shift as the roster settles and develops chemistry. However, the latest mock draft projection offers a glimpse at the type of prospect Chicago may target in the middle of the first round.
Bennett Stirtz brings experience, sound decision-making, and effective floor-spacing — all traits that align closely with the Bulls’ front office vision of building a team centered around Giddey’s playmaking and Buzelis’ versatility.
If the Bulls find themselves on the clock at No. 17 with Stirtz still available, he would be one of the cleanest, most natural fits on the board to help strengthen Chicago’s backcourt for the future.
https://heavy.com/sports/nba/chicago-bulls/bennett-stirtz-iowa-guard-chicago-bulls/
