The Bulls’ dynasty may or may not be entering its last days, but either way it might be a good idea to start considering replacements for its key components.
Steve Kerr
Joined team: Sept. 29, 1993
Position: Designated shooter
Height/weight: 6-3, 180 lbs.
Numbers: NBA career leader in three-point shooting
Contract status: Free agent
POSSIBLE REPLACEMENTS
OPIE TAYLOR
Wide-eyed
He can count to 100. He’s forever in the 4th grade. He’s a moral person; he really cares about the bird he hit with a slingshot. But he says “Yes, Pa” instead of “Yes, coach.”
RICHIE CUNNINGHAM
Almost grown up
His numbers are all A’s and a few B’s. He will do anything Air, er, the Fonz says. But he’s probably peaked as a performer. And he’s committed to Arnold’s.
WOODSTOCK
Helper
He’s a great complement to a guy with a prominent nose. He’s free except for hockey commitments. But he’s a little too light on his feet.
Realistically . . .
The Bulls can’t make any serious replacement plans until Michael Jordan’s future is determined, because of his contract’s effect on their salary cap. But there will be some shooters looking for work, including:
REX CHAPMAN, Phoenix
A free agent who played for short money this season in hopes of cashing in later. Injuries have cost Chapman much of his explosiveness, but he remains one of the league’s great streak shooters.
BRYCE DREW, Valparaiso
A friend of Kerr’s, he didn’t attract much notice until Valpo’s feel-good foray in the NCAA tournament. Then he really opened some eyes at the NBA’s predraft camp, so the chances of him remaining available for the Bulls are remote.
JEFF SHEPPARD, Kentucky
Another pure-bred Kentucky shooter with athletic ability reminiscent of the young Chapman. Mike Bibby and some other guards will be picked sooner, but 28 other teams would have to pass for the Bulls to have a chance at Sheppard.
