The Chicago Bulls begin the 2026-27 NBA season on the road Wednesday against the Toronto Raptors. It will be a season unlike any other in recent memory, as the team rebuilds from scratch with new leadership, coaching, and players. Although some notable players will grab the spotlight, Leonard Miller cannot and shouldn't be overlooked.
The 22-year-old 6-foot-10 forward/center is playing with a purpose. In June, the Bulls picked up Miller on a team option for $2.4 million. In other words, the Bulls reserve the right to either keep or trade Miller depending on his performance.
So far, Miller's preseason numbers show real potential. He finished 1st in preseason scoring with 82 points, with high-profile rookie sensation Caleb Wilson coming in 2nd at 79 points.
Altogether, Miller averaged 16.4 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game while shooting a remarkable 62% from the field. The Bulls finished the preseason at 3-2.
Miller has been in the league for 3 years. In 2023, the San Antonio Spurs drafted him with the 33rd pick, then traded him to the Minnesota Timberwolves. He played 3 seasons in Minnesota and appeared in 49 games. On a roster that included big names such as Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert, Miller vied for playing time.
Last February, Miller was traded to the Bulls as part of a 3-way deal with the Timberwolves, in which Minnesota received Ayo Dosunmu and Julian Phillips. Rob Dillingham accompanied Miller to Chicago.
From the time he set foot in Chicago, Miller made an impression. Overall, he averaged 11.7 points and 5.8 rebounds per game and shot 55.5% from the field.
As the season went along, questions rose about who the Bulls should keep going forward. That was particularly needed given the need to rebuild for the long haul.
Leonard Miller could be the straw that stirs the drink
Everything is up in the air right now. But if Miller stays consistent, the Bulls will have every reason to keep him long term.
Starting with Miller, he has attributes that fit the current Bulls makeup like a glove. With an explosive frontcourt featuring Caleb Wilson, Matas Buzelis, and Nic Claxton, Miller's size, length, athleticism, and versatility complement and upgrade the secondary unit.
He can attack the rim, protect the paint, and shoot from all spots on the floor. As a result, Miller can solidify his position as a potent, multifaceted offensive threat.
Miller has earned the minutes of high-paid veterans such as Patrick Williams, and for good reason.
A diamond in the rough can be hard to find, but when you find it, you can't pass it up. And Leonard Miller is that diamond.