Chicago Bulls center Nazr Mohammed adds veteran presence

In the offseason, the Chicago Bulls acquired center Nazr Mohammed to bring in some depth for the front court and provide some veteran leadership.

Mohammed, a 35-year-old journeyman center, could be a vital piece for the Bulls as they search for that elusive trip to the NBA Finals. According to CSNChicago.com, Mohammed says he's ready to do his part.

"I just do whatever the coaches ask me to do. If they want me to shoot the ball, I’ll shoot the ball, but on this team I’m concentrating on defense," Mohammed, a graduate of Kenwood Academy in Hyde Park on the city’s South Side. "But how our offense is set up, I’ve just been having some opportunities offensively, so I’ve just been taking them."

Mohammed has been around the block, last seen playing for the Western Conference champion Oklahoma City Thunder. Now, he'll return to his native Chicago in hopes of helping the Bulls take the next step.

"Nazr’s tough, that’s what I like about him. He’s been a great pro for a long time. I think his size, shot-blocking at the rim is critical," added Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau. "He doesn’t try to do things that he can’t do and I think that goes a long way towards winning."