Why Trading for Jonathan Kuminga Could Be the Bulls’ Boldest - and Smartest - Move Yet
Let’s be honest: the Chicago Bulls aren’t in a position to label anyone on their roster as untouchable. Not when the franchise is stuck in the middle - not bad enough to bottom out, not good enough to contend. That means every option should be on the table, and yes, that includes exploring deals involving promising young pieces like Josh Giddey and Matas Buzelis if the return is right.
But realistically? The Bulls aren’t swinging for the fences anytime soon.
So if they’re going to build something sustainable, it starts with maximizing the talent they already have. And that’s exactly why a trade for Jonathan Kuminga makes a whole lot of sense.
Unlocking Buzelis Starts With the Right Fit
Matas Buzelis is the closest thing the Bulls have to a future star. The 21-year-old Chicago native has taken a noticeable leap in Year 2, averaging 14.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 1.4 blocks per game. He’s already surpassed last season’s total starts and has carved out a major role in the rotation, with a usage rate just behind Giddey, Coby White, and Nikola Vucevic - two of whom might not be around much longer.
The upside is obvious. But the fit? That’s been a little clunky.
At 6'9" with explosive athleticism, Buzelis has the tools to thrive at the NBA level. But his frame and skill set are more suited to a jumbo wing than a traditional power forward.
He’s more comfortable attacking from the perimeter, using his quickness and length to exploit mismatches. Defensively, he’s better chasing wings and guards than banging with bigs in the paint.
The problem is, Chicago’s roster construction has forced Buzelis to log heavy minutes at the four - a role that doesn’t play to his strengths. To unlock his full potential, the Bulls need to surround him with the right complementary pieces. That’s where Jonathan Kuminga enters the picture.
Kuminga Brings the Physicality Buzelis Needs Beside Him
Kuminga, the 23-year-old forward drafted one spot behind Giddey in 2021, brings a different flavor to the table. He’s also an athletic hybrid forward, but with a sturdier frame and a game built more for contact. While Buzelis stretches the floor and slashes from the wing, Kuminga thrives near the rim and can handle the physical grind of guarding and playing against power forwards.
In short: Kuminga does the dirty work, Buzelis brings the finesse. That’s a pairing that could work.
Offensively, Kuminga isn’t the shooter Buzelis is, but he’s more than capable as a downhill threat. Defensively, he has the size and strength to take on tougher matchups, allowing Buzelis to roam and use his length more effectively. It’s not a perfect fit, but it’s a logical one - and one that could elevate both players.
A Buy-Low Opportunity the Bulls Shouldn’t Ignore
Kuminga’s time in Golden State has been rocky. He’s shown flashes - no question - but he hasn’t consistently played up to the expectations that come with being a top-10 pick. His effort level on defense has fluctuated, and he hasn’t always embraced the role-player grind, often playing like a guy who believes he’s already a star.
But here’s the thing: the Warriors don’t have time to wait. They’re trying to squeeze one more postseason run out of the Stephen Curry-Jimmy Butler-Draymond Green core. That leaves little room for developmental projects, especially ones who want a bigger role.
The Bulls, on the other hand, can afford to be patient. They can give Kuminga the minutes and freedom he’s been craving - and maybe, just maybe, help him turn the corner.
He’s not just available - he’s actively looking for a fresh start. Kuminga reportedly requested a trade the moment he became eligible to be moved. Golden State is said to be targeting expiring contracts in return, and Chicago has those in spades.
Low Risk, High Reward
This isn’t a franchise-altering gamble. The Bulls wouldn’t be mortgaging their future to bring in Kuminga.
If it works, they’ve added a high-upside piece who fits next to their most promising young player. If it doesn’t?
They hold a team option for next season and can walk away clean.
That’s the kind of calculated risk a team like the Bulls should be taking.
Whether the deal actually gets done remains to be seen. But the opportunity is there. And for a team searching for identity, direction, and a little bit of hope - this is the kind of swing that could finally start to move the needle.