Less known! Bulls Xia Lian has a Chinese player, 24 years old and 208cm tall, playing as a center

There is a surprise hidden in the Chicago Bulls' summer league roster!

is not Yang Hansen or Zeng Fanbo. This 208cm big man is called Zhang Zhenlin, an authentic native of Benxi, Liaoning.

In the summer league match between the Bulls and Hornets on July 16, Zhang Zhenlin came on as a substitute for 8 minutes, made 2 of 3 shots and scored 5 points and 2 rebounds, including a beautiful turn and hook. The defensive end gave out 1 block, plus or minus value + 4 third in the team.

Some people believe that this efficient performance deserves more playing time.

You should know that this is Zhang Zhenlin's first time playing for an NBA team. Last year, he just led the Liaoning team to complete three consecutive CBA championships, and averaged 18.3 points and 7 rebounds per game in the finals, which allowed him to win the FMVP.

208cm tall and 2.21 meters wingspan, Zhang Zhenlin's static talent is among the best in the Asian inside. Although the movement speed is slow, his solid footsteps and soft feel allow him to contribute to his combat power in a short period of time.

Fans are asking: Why no one has discovered this uncensored jade before?

In fact, after losing the draft in 2024, Zhang Zhenlin received invitations from the summer league from several NBA teams. The Bulls were finally chosen because the coaching staff promised to give insiders a chance to rotate.

In the key battle against the Magic on July 19, Zhang Zhenlin got 12 minutes of playing time. The data of 6 points, 4 rebounds and 1 assist is not impressive, but three successful positions caused the opponent's offensive foul. This blue-collar performance won the coaching staff's nod.

analysis points out that this defensive enthusiasm is a trait that NBA teams value.

Compared with other Chinese players, Zhang Zhenlin has a unique advantage - the age of 24 has become a plus. NBA teams now prefer real-time combat power rather than young players who need long-term training.

"No ball rights, strong execution, and hard defense" these three labels make Zhang Zhenlin stand out in the summer league. Although the offensive methods still need to be polished, the positioning of as a substitute center is very clear.

Interestingly, Zhang Zhenlin's English communication is completely fine. The Liaoning team's decision to send him to study in the American high school in the early years is really foresight now.

The Bulls have 2 summer league games left. If you maintain your current performance, Zhang Zhenlin is likely to get a training camp contract. Even if he missed the NBA in the end, this experience opened the door to the top European leagues.

What do you think? After this summer, can we see the fifth Chinese player to enter the NBA?