The Jaden Ivey saga in Chicago has taken an unexpected twist. Just a few weeks ago, Ivey was a promising addition to the Bulls' roster.
However, after their February 19 loss to the Toronto Raptors, where Ivey didn't play despite being healthy, questions began to arise. This decision was puzzling, especially since Ivey had started three of his first four games with the Bulls, posting solid numbers: 11.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 2.0 steals per game, shooting 41.7% from the field and 38.1% from beyond the arc.
The situation became more complicated with the return of Josh Giddey and Tre Jones from injury, which squeezed Ivey out of the rotation. Following the DNP-CD, Ivey made cryptic comments about his form, stating, “the old J.I. is dead,” suggesting a shift in his playing style or mindset. Bulls head coach Billy Donovan echoed these concerns, noting that Ivey wasn’t moving like he used to.
This led to an unexpected development: Ivey was ruled out for two weeks due to knee soreness. This was a surprising turn, considering his pre-All-Star break performance. What was once an exciting trade acquisition has now become a question mark for the Bulls.
As the offseason approaches, the stakes are high. Ivey is set to enter restricted free agency, and his $13.4 million qualifying offer presents a manageable scenario for the Bulls to evaluate him further. However, the real issue lies in the $30.3 million cap hold that could restrict Chicago’s flexibility in free agency.
NBA analysts Sam Vecenie and Bryce Simon discussed two practical solutions for the Bulls on the Game Theory Podcast. Simon suggested that Chicago should clarify their stance before free agency begins: Ivey can either accept the qualifying offer, or it will be renounced to maintain cap space. Vecenie proposed moving away from the qualifying offer entirely, suggesting a two-year deal with a team option for the second season.
These strategies could help the Bulls navigate the financial implications of Ivey’s contract. Yet, with Ivey sidelined for six games and only 24 remaining, the window for evaluation is closing fast. Letting Ivey test unrestricted free agency might be the best option, even if it makes the trade seem less impactful, especially since parting with Kevin Huerter and Dario Saric wasn't a major sacrifice.
In the end, Chicago's decision on Ivey will reflect a significant shift in strategy, just weeks after acquiring the former fifth-overall pick.