Mac McClung is again in the NBA game -this time with the Bulls of Chicago. He has been signed by Chicago, the three-time Slam Dunk Contest champion with the NBA, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, who gives him another opportunity to show that he is not a viral dunking sensation.
Over the years, Mac McClung has been spectacularizing the fans with his aerial exploits as he grinds through the G League. However, behind the act is a gamer who has unobtrusively constructed one of the most comprehensive resumes in the development system of the league. McClung averaged 25.7, 4.7, and 6.6 points, rebounds, and assists respectively in the Osceola Magic last season, which has resulted in the G League MVP award in 202324.
That impressive performance notwithstanding, the 25-year-old guard has only been in 6 NBA games in a number of teams. This is why his relocation to Chicago seems the best opportunity of both parties. The Bulls are currently in the process of a re-construction, concentrating on youth like Matas Buzelis and trying to find under-the-radar players that can achieve something. Mac McClung would have the platform to demonstrate his entire game again even though Windy City Bulls, the G League affiliate of Chicago, is the starting point.
It is not only his dunking that makes McClung a person worth remembering. Sure, he has already made history by becoming the only player to wipe out three consecutive NBA Dunk Contests, an unbelievable feat, which has garnered him a fan following. However, his performance in the G League demonstrates that he is a real scorer and playmaker, and can command an offense and pass to colleagues.
In the case of Chicago, Mac McClung is a low risk, high energy player to be signed. He provides immediate buzz to the team and would attract more attention to both the G League and the United Center. Should the depth of the Bulls backcourt come into question, McClung is the type of player that can come in, give the team a boost and get the fans standing.
His signing also draws a larger issue regarding the league, what do teams do with players who make the game interesting, creative, and engage fans as well as possessing good basketball skills? McClung might not be assured of a roster position at this point, but he does have what any rebuilding team must have: buzz, passion and the capacity to get people interested.
No matter whether he is a G League lighting star or another NBA call up, this much is certain the story of Mac McClung in Chicago does not have much space to run and the Bulls fans are in for a show.
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