Bulls overhauled roster with seven pre-deadline trades, signaling youth movement and asset accumulation
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The Chicago Bulls reshaped their roster with seven deals completed before Thursday’s NBA trade deadline, a flurry of moves vice president of basketball operations Artūras Karnišovas said was aimed at escaping the league’s middle ground.
“The play-in is not our goal. A championship is,” Karnišovas told reporters during a video call. “We know where we are in the standings, and we are not satisfied with being in the middle.”
Youth, picks and flexibility
Although he avoided labeling the effort a rebuild, Karnišovas acknowledged the organization is now prioritizing younger players, stockpiling draft capital and preserving cap flexibility. He identified Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis and Noa Essengue as foundational pieces.
Chicago added eight second-round selections in Thursday’s transactions. After previously downplaying the value of those picks, Karnišovas called them “a currency in our industry,” adding they can be useful in the draft, free agency and future trades.
Timing of White and Dosunmu trades
The front office had earlier opportunities to move Coby White and Ayo Dosunmu when their trade values were higher but waited until both were headed for unrestricted free agency. Karnišovas defended the decision, saying, “You don’t want to lose your free agents for nothing … Right now it’s good timing, and we addressed it.”
Donovan staying the course
Head coach Billy Donovan said he is committed to remaining with the team through the transition. “Things can happen quickly,” Donovan said, pointing to recent turnarounds by Detroit and Boston as examples.
Outside skepticism
Despite the roster overhaul, columnists Jon Greenberg (The Athletic) and Paul Sullivan (Chicago Tribune) questioned whether the existing front office and ownership can deliver long-term success.
Player notes
Guerschon Yabusele waived a $5.8 million player option as part of his trade to Chicago, fearing he could have remained in New York past the deadline without doing so. The French forward logged season highs of 15 points, 11 rebounds and three assists in 33 minutes during Thursday’s loss to Toronto. “I did give up the player option because I wanted to play basketball,” Yabusele said, adding that his offseason plans remain open.
Guard Rob Dillingham, the No. …2014??? Actually 2024 lottery selection, was acquired from Minnesota in the Dosunmu deal. After limited action with the Timberwolves over two seasons, the 21-year-old hopes to rebuild his confidence in Chicago. “I really just feel like I haven’t had an opportunity where I feel confident,” he said.
Source: Hoops Rumors
