Sources have confirmed that free agent guard Patrick Beverley is expected to sign with the Chicago Bulls the athlete on monday. Here’s what you should know:

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The 34-year-old will go back to where it all began, growing up in Chicago. The Bulls will begin the second half of their season on February 24 when they host the Brooklyn Nets in their first game after the All-Star break.

Why would the Bulls sign him?

When Russell Westbrook landed with the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday, the Bulls quickly agreed to bring in the next available option. Backcourt has been a problem for the Bulls all season, especially on the defensive end.

A season-long absence of the ball decimated the team’s perimeter defense and left the Bulls in disarray often offensively. Beverly is trying to bring structure and intensity to an increasingly frosty set. – Mayberry

How is Beverly placed on the list?

Expect him to demand the starting job from the start. In the absence of the ball, the Bulls relied on second-year guard Ayo Dosonmu as a starter.

After an encouraging rookie season, Dosunmu has yet to make a huge leap in Year 2. This opens the door for Beverley to take control of the team. – Mayberry

What does signing for the rest of the season chicago mean

Chicago has 23 games remaining and will start the post-All-Star portion of its schedule two games behind Toronto in 10th place in the Eastern standings. The Bulls (26-33) are on a six-game losing streak, haven’t been . 500 since early November and blow out five games when they lead by at least 16 points.

If only Beverly could inject life into the Bulls and get them into the playoffs, the Chicago native would become a legend in his hometown. – Mayberry

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(Photo: Gary A Vasquez/USA Today)