Bulls add EJ Liddell to training camp mix

Bulls add EJ Liddell to training camp mix originally appeared on NBC Sports Chicago

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There’s a theme to the Chicago Bulls’ roster makeover and offseason philosophy, with management focusing on young players with experience as they attempt to build the next iteration after two disappointing seasons.

And so it is that EJ Liddell is coming to training camp on an earn-it contract, a source confirmed after Hoops Hype first reported the news on Saturday.

The move brings the Bulls’ offseason roster to 21 players, the maximum allowed. The Bulls have 14 guaranteed contracts. Onuralp Bitim’s contract is not fully guaranteed. That means there will be one NBA roster spot open if the Bulls choose to carry 15 players. They also have one two-way contract available.

Liddell, 23, is a small power forward in the mold of Terry Taylor, who agreed to a training camp deal with the Sacramento Kings on Friday. Liddell played at Ohio State after a high school career in downstate Illinois with Belleville West.

The 41st pick in the second round of the 2022 NBA Draft by the New Orleans Pelicans, Liddell tore his anterior cruciate ligament in that year’s NBA Summer League. He recovered to play just 23 minutes in eight games at the NBA level last season, but averaged 17.7 points and 7.8 rebounds in the G League.

The Bulls open training camp on September 30 with Media Day activities, followed by the first practice on October 1. Liddell is now also in the mix.

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