The Chicago Bulls find themselves in familiar territory as the trade deadline looms - hovering around the play-in mix and facing tough decisions about the direction of the roster. One name that’s been consistently floated in trade talks? Coby White.
White, now in his seventh year, has become a focal point of the Bulls’ trade chatter, but according to recent reporting, Chicago is having a hard time generating the kind of return they’re hoping for - namely, a first-round pick. The challenge? A combination of factors that complicate his trade value.
For starters, White’s on an expiring contract, and while those deals can sometimes be attractive for teams looking to clear cap space, they also come with risk. If a team gives up a valuable asset to get him now, there’s no guarantee he sticks around past the summer. That uncertainty is giving teams pause - especially when you factor in the potential cost of his next deal.
Then there’s the health piece. White has dealt with nagging calf issues this season, including a stint on the sidelines to start the year.
Those concerns haven’t fully gone away, and as the season grinds on into February, it’s something teams are monitoring closely. No one wants to trade for a player who might not be available down the stretch - especially when playoff positioning is on the line.
On the court, White still brings a lot to the table. He’s a microwave scorer who can catch fire in a hurry and has shown growth as a playmaker.
When he’s in rhythm, he can change the complexion of a game. But in today’s NBA, where versatility and two-way play are at a premium, there are questions about his fit.
At 6'5", he’s a bit undersized for a traditional shooting guard, and his defense hasn’t exactly been a calling card. That combination - streaky scoring, limited size, and defensive concerns - makes it tough for front offices to justify giving up premium draft capital.
Still, there’s a market for guards who can create offense, especially as teams gear up for the postseason. The Bulls just might have to recalibrate their expectations if they want to make a move before the deadline.
Chicago’s next test comes Tuesday night on the road against the Milwaukee Bucks - a tough matchup that could offer another look at what White brings to the table, and perhaps, what other teams might be weighing as the trade clock ticks down.