As the NBA trade deadline inches closer, the Chicago Bulls find themselves at a familiar crossroads - balancing future flexibility with present potential. And right now, all signs point to Coby White as the player most likely to be on the move.
League sources suggest that while multiple Bulls guards - including White, Ayo Dosunmu, and Tre Jones - have attracted interest, it's White who’s generating the most buzz in both internal and external conversations. That’s not a huge surprise. White’s offensive skill set, particularly his ability to create off the dribble and play as a primary ball-handler, makes him a compelling option for teams looking to bolster their backcourt before the playoff push.
But the Bulls’ front office seems to be drawing a line in the sand. While White has value, Chicago appears more committed to Dosunmu long-term.
That’s not just about on-court chemistry - it’s also about dollars and cents. Dosunmu is seen as a better fit alongside newly acquired Josh Giddey, who thrives with the ball in his hands.
White, on the other hand, is at his best when he’s the one initiating the offense. That overlap creates a redundancy the Bulls may not be willing to pay for.
And make no mistake - White is due for a payday. After turning down a four-year, $87 million extension, he's betting on himself heading into unrestricted free agency.
The Bulls could match or exceed that number thanks to their Bird rights and available cap space, but things get complicated when you factor in last summer’s four-year, $100 million deal for Giddey. Committing another significant chunk of money to a second ball-dominant guard doesn’t exactly scream roster balance.
That’s why Dosunmu, who brings defensive versatility and doesn’t need the ball to be effective, is viewed as the more natural long-term partner for Giddey in the backcourt. His game complements, rather than competes with, the Bulls’ new centerpiece.
As for potential suitors, the Timberwolves continue to circle. They’ve shown consistent interest in White, but there’s some hesitation about giving up real assets for a player who could walk in free agency. That’s the risk-reward calculus every front office has to weigh this time of year.
The Rockets and Clippers have also been linked to White, and there’s word that Houston’s young core has piqued Chicago’s interest. That could open the door for a deal if the Bulls decide to lean into a youth movement or retool around Giddey and Dosunmu.
Bottom line: Coby White is a talented guard with real value, but the Bulls may be ready to move in a different direction - one that prioritizes fit, financial flexibility, and a clearer long-term vision. With the deadline looming, don’t be surprised if White’s name is the one that finally gets called.