Coby White’s name has been buzzing around the league-and not without reason. The 25-year-old guard is having a breakout season, and his value on the trade market is climbing fast.
Whether it’s the Timberwolves reportedly sniffing around for backcourt help or other playoff-bound teams eyeing a dynamic sixth man, White has emerged as one of the most intriguing trade chips ahead of the deadline. And now, the Bulls are at a crossroads: hold onto a blossoming offensive weapon, or move him for what could be a foundational asset in the future.
What the Bulls Want
According to recent reports, Chicago’s asking price for White is an unprotected first-round pick. That might sound steep at first glance, but let’s break it down.
If a contending team is making the offer-which is most likely the case-then that pick probably falls somewhere in the 15-30 range. That’s not a lottery ticket, but it’s still a valuable asset, especially when you consider the Bulls would be giving up a player who’s averaging close to 20 points and 5 assists per game over the last three seasons.
White’s growth into a high-level scorer and one of the league’s more dangerous three-point shooters has made him a plug-and-play upgrade for just about any team looking to deepen their playoff rotation. He’s not just a volume scorer-he’s a legitimate offensive engine off the bench or in a starting role, capable of shifting the momentum of a game with his shot-making and pace. That kind of production, especially at just 25 years old, doesn’t come cheap.
Why the Bulls Should Pull the Trigger
If an unprotected first is on the table, the Bulls front office would be wise to take it. This isn’t a team on the verge of contention.
At best, they’re looking at another Play-In Tournament appearance. At worst, they miss the postseason entirely.
White’s contract is also set to expire, and given his current trajectory, he’s going to command a hefty raise this summer-possibly double or even triple his current salary.
That puts the Bulls in a tough spot. Do they pay up to keep him and risk locking into a core that hasn’t proven it can win? Or do they cash in now while his value is high and use the pick to help reset the roster for the long haul?
The reality is, Chicago already has a crowded backcourt. And while White has clearly taken a leap, the team hasn’t followed suit in the standings.
Holding onto him through the deadline only to lose him in free agency-or overpay to keep him-would be a tough pill to swallow. Trading him for a first-rounder, even one in the mid-to-late first, gives the Bulls flexibility and a chance to build toward something more sustainable.
Where He Could Land
Teams like Minnesota, Milwaukee, and Miami are exactly the kind of buyers who could use a player like White. The Timberwolves are looking to solidify their guard rotation for a deep playoff push.
The Bucks need more scoring punch off the bench. And the Heat-well, they’re always lurking when a high-upside talent becomes available.
For those teams, White isn’t just a rental. He’s a win-now piece who could also be part of the long-term picture.
His age, skill set, and upward trajectory make him more than just a short-term fix. That’s why the Bulls are holding firm on their asking price-and why they might actually get it.
The Big Picture
This is the kind of decision that can define a front office’s tenure. Artūras Karnišovas and his staff have to weigh the value of White’s current production against the reality of the team’s ceiling.
If they believe White is a cornerstone, they’ll need to pay him-and build around him. But if they see this as a peak in value, then moving him for a first-round pick could be the smartest play they make all season.
Either way, the clock is ticking. The trade deadline is approaching, and the market is heating up.
Coby White might not be a household name just yet, but he’s playing like a guy who could swing a playoff series. And that’s exactly the kind of player contenders are willing to pay for.