The Chicago Bulls wrapped up their season in a predictable manner on Wednesday during the play-in tournament, facing off against the Miami Heat. The loss marked the end of a season filled with ups and downs, leaving fans and analysts wondering about the team’s future direction.
In a bid to change their fortunes mid-season, the Bulls made the decision to trade their former All-Star Zach LaVine, focusing instead on younger talent such as Josh Giddey, who was brought in over the offseason, alongside Coby White, who has already established himself in the league. This shift resulted in a slight improvement in March and April, signaling management’s intent to invest in Giddey after he showcased his potential with impressive performances.
However, the Bulls missed the opportunity to address potential issues at the trade deadline, especially with Coby White facing free agency in 2026. This looming uncertainty means there will be ongoing questions about his role in the coming season.
One player the Bulls can count on for the long term is Patrick Williams, a former lottery pick who signed a five-year, $90 million deal last offseason. Despite this vote of confidence, Williams averaged only nine points and 3.8 rebounds per game, shooting 39.7% from the field. His performance will make it difficult for the Bulls to make significant changes over the summer.
As the season concluded, the Bulls found themselves mired in mediocrity despite a better approach to their offense. Notably, they took more three-point shots than any previous season, reflecting a modern style that aimed at improving their overall gameplay.
Looking ahead to the offseason, challenges remain. The executive vice president of basketball operations, Arturas Karnišovas, believes the team’s future lies in building a roster of “nine to 10 very good players,” downplaying the need for a standout superstar. While this vision is ambitious, it raises concerns about whether the Bulls can truly succeed without a clear superstar presence.
The team’s record for the 2024-25 season stands at 39 wins and 43 losses. One highlight, however, was the play of rookie Matas Buzelis, who emerged as a promising talent. Standing 6-foot-10, Buzelis displayed impressive athleticism and shooting skills that exceeded expectations.
Addressing the team’s needs this offseason is crucial. The Bulls’ current strategy appears misguided, similar to running in place without making real progress. There is a pressing need for change at various levels of the organization—ownership, management, and a shift in overall strategy. Such changes are essential if the Bulls want to reclaim their competitiveness in the league.
As the draft approaches, the Bulls are projected to hold the 13th and 45th picks. This draft presents an opportunity for the organization to build upon Buzelis’s success. The primary goal should be to secure another talented player to complement him, especially considering the possibility of a rebuilding phase.
In terms of free agency, the Bulls will need to carefully navigate contracts for key players like Josh Giddey, who is classified as a restricted free agent, and Tre Jones, who will be an unrestricted free agent.
Financially, the Bulls have been adept at avoiding the luxury tax, with the salary cap anticipated to be around $154.6 million for the upcoming season. However, Giddey’s performance, including several triple-doubles, means he could demand a substantial contract, potentially in the range of $30 million per year. Maintaining financial flexibility will be vital, especially as they prepare to offer Coby White a significant deal in the coming years, which could start around $35 million annually.
Looking ahead, the Bulls will aim for a more competitive showing next season, hoping for another chance to qualify for the play-in tournament. Their efforts will likely focus on uncovering value in each new acquisition, enabling the organization to strive towards a genuine playoff berth for the 2026 season.
For Bulls fans, the reality may be that they are in for a few more years of navigating through the challenges of mediocrity. As they look to craft a brighter future, the hope remains that significant changes can pave the way for better days ahead.
