McBuckets Selected

As one might expect as the NBA postseason continues, the Bulls are mostly staying out of the news.  In the past week, the only move of note is the return of dynasty trainer Chip Schaefer in a prominent strength and training role, likely the director of sports performance role most recently held by Jen Swanson.  But Tuesday's news might somewhat justify the team's recent draft history, which has become a main talking point for critics.  That news is that Doug McDermott is one of 25 young players selected to this year's USA Select.

As part of the team, coached by Gregg Popovich, McDermott and the other members will train daily with the U.S. Nation Team, for which Jimmy Butler is a finalist.  The sessions will be held in Las Vegas from July 18-21, a couple of weeks before the big boys leave for the Rio Olympics.  This is McDermott's second time with the Select Team, the first coming in 2014.  He was also on the U19 World Championship roster in 2011 and at a National Team Minicamp in 2014, so he has quite a bit of experience representing his country.

Say what you will about McDermott, but to me, he's one of the few guys on the roster with a future here.  He just played in 81 games, averaging 9.4 points, 2.4 rebounds and shooting 45.2 percent from the field (42.5 percent from behind the 3-point line).  True, it doesn't mean a whole lot for a team that's destined for a rebuild.  But he's a player who can play a significant role as a role player anywhere and the Bulls would be wise to stick with him.

With a little more development and experience, he could develop into something every team would love to have.  Team USA obviously feels the same way about him or they wouldn't want to test him out against the LeBrons, Carmelos and Kawhis.  He deserves every chance he gets to face elite competition, especially some of the best players America has to offer.  And if he proves himself, that's good news for the Bulls.