The Chicago Bulls have been on quite the rollercoaster ride since the start of 2026. The year kicked off with some lackluster performances, leading to a pivotal moment at February’s trade deadline.
With the team dropping four out of five games leading up to the deadline, Arturas Karnisovas decided it was time for a major shakeup. The Bulls executed a league-high seven trades, completely revamping the roster in exchange for second-round picks and expiring contracts.
While the return might not have been as lucrative as it could have been a year earlier, the fresh lineup has been a mixed bag of surprises.
On some nights, the Bulls look like a team still finding its footing, retaining just three rotation players. Yet, on other occasions, the dynamic duo of Matas Buzelis and Josh Giddey has dazzled, showcasing the kind of chemistry that can drag a team to victory. Sitting at a 28-42 record, the Bulls are eyeing their position in the upcoming draft.
Caught in the Middle
Despite making bold moves at the trade deadline, the Bulls find themselves in a familiar spot as the season winds down. Their current standing suggests they’ll likely land between the ninth and tenth slots in the draft lottery.
This position doesn’t just limit their chances of snagging a top prospect; it also hinders their ability to lure in top-tier free agents. Without a standout addition, the current roster lacks the allure to attract big names.
The Silver Lining
With no shot at the play-in tournament for the fourth straight year, the Bulls' focus should be on development rather than wins. Testing out their new assets on expiring contracts is crucial to see who might be worth keeping alongside core players like Buzelis and Giddey. Over the past six weeks, it’s become clear that Buzelis is a cornerstone, Giddey is a keeper, and players like Leonard Miller, Rob Dillingham, and Collin Sexton could be valuable pieces moving forward.
Buzelis, in particular, has been a revelation, averaging 21.4 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game this month. His standout performance on March 10, where he scored a career-high 41 points, highlights his potential as a foundational player.
Looking Ahead
While the Bulls' current trajectory might not be leading to immediate success, the development of players like Buzelis offers a glimmer of hope. The question now is whether the Bulls can replicate some of their past lottery luck and draft a future superstar. With the NCAA tournament showcasing plenty of young talent, the Bulls have an opportunity to set the stage for a brighter future.