DJ Steward Joins Chicago Bulls on Two-Way Contract
The Chicago Bulls are making strategic moves to solidify their roster as they enter a rebuilding phase, and their latest acquisition is homegrown talent DJ Steward, who has agreed to a two-way contract with the team. This signing represents a significant milestone for Steward, a native of Chicago, who has demonstrated resilience and versatility throughout his budding career.
From Duke to the Pros
DJ Steward’s journey to the NBA has been anything but conventional. After completing a standout season as a one-and-done player at Duke, Steward went undrafted. Rather than being deterred, he embraced the challenge head-on and took to the court in the G-League, starting with the Stockton Kings. His time there laid the foundation for his professional journey, showcasing his skills and potential.
Determined to make a mark, Steward also expanded his horizons by playing for the Vancouver Bandits in the Canadian Elite Basketball League. The international experience added depth to his game, enriching his understanding of different playing styles and competitive dynamics. His hard work and perseverance eventually led him back to the G-League with the Maine Celtics, where he continued to refine his craft.
Summer League Standout
Steward’s performances have not gone unnoticed, particularly in the recent Las Vegas Summer League. Averaging an impressive 19.3 points per game, he made a strong case for his inclusion in the NBA. One of his standout moments came in an overtime victory against the Atlanta Hawks, where he poured in 37 points, underscoring his scoring ability and clutch performance under pressure.
This remarkable streak of games captured the attention of the Chicago Bulls’ front office, who recognized the 21-year-old’s potential and saw an opportunity to bring local talent back home. By offering Steward a two-way contract, the Bulls are giving him the platform to gain valuable NBA experience while continuing his development in the G-League.
Two-Way Contract: A Pathway for Development
The two-way contract, a relatively recent addition to the NBA landscape, is designed to bridge the gap between the G-League and the NBA. It allows players like Steward to split their time between both leagues, gaining crucial exposure to the demands of the NBA while honing their skills in a competitive environment. For the Bulls, this is a strategic move to develop young talent organically, a necessity during a rebuilding phase.
Steward’s journey through multiple leagues and his unwavering resolve reflect a player who is ready to seize this opportunity. The upcoming season is critical for him to prove that he belongs on the NBA stage. His scoring prowess, combined with the experience garnered from diverse playing environments, positions him as a valuable asset for the Bulls’ long-term aspirations.
Strategic Implications for the Bulls
For the Chicago Bulls, nurturing young players like Steward is integral to their rebuilding strategy. The team is in a period of transition, with an eye towards cultivating a roster that can compete at the highest levels in the future. By investing in players who have shown potential and a strong work ethic, the Bulls are laying the groundwork for sustainable success.
The signing of DJ Steward is not just a nod to his potential but also a testament to the Bulls’ commitment to foster local talent and build a cohesive, resilient team. As Steward steps onto the court, he carries with him not only his personal aspirations but also the hopes of a franchise eager to return to its former glory.
In welcoming DJ Steward, the Chicago Bulls are embracing a new chapter, one that intertwines the promise of young talent with the strategic foresight necessary for long-term success. The journey ahead holds immense potential, and for Steward, the stage is set to make a lasting impact in the NBA.