Bulls double down on “second-draft” approach with Ivey, eye sharper play from Dillingham, add McClung on two-way
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The Chicago Bulls have strengthened their reputation as the NBA’s top “second-draft” destination, bringing in several young guards looking for fresh opportunities.
Jaden Ivey lands in Chicago
Chicago obtained third-year guard Jaden Ivey in a deal that sent Kevin Huerter and a 2026 pick swap to his former club. Ivey, 24, is headed for restricted free agency this summer after missing much of last season with a broken leg that blurred his role on the contender that drafted him.
Head coach Billy Donovan is not expected to hand the keys to Ivey, given Chicago’s crowded backcourt, but the staff sees room for him to thrive. Ivey has been an efficient three-point shooter since the start of last season, and the Bulls—who moved two expiring point guards at the trade deadline—will enter the offseason with significant cap space. If Ivey regains full burst while maintaining his perimeter accuracy, the organization believes he could complement Josh Giddey in a future starting lineup.
Donovan wants cleaner reads from Rob Dillingham
Second-year guard Rob Dillingham has impressed Donovan with his speed and ability to break down defenses. Still, the coach is demanding better decision-making. “The shots he’s taking are not sustainable,” Donovan told reporters. “His job is to generate shots for guys…he can’t be jumping off two feet, getting caught in the air, shooting over guys or forcing passes that aren’t there.” Donovan added that he wants Dillingham to keep attacking but expects the 21-year-old to find a balance as he matures.
Mac McClung inks two-way contract
Three-time NBA Dunk Contest champion Mac McClung, 27, signed a two-way deal with Chicago after bypassing lucrative overseas offers to remain in the G League. “This is where my heart’s at,” McClung said. “You can’t keep telling me no forever.”
Backcourt heavy, chemistry in progress
Veteran guard Anfernee Simons acknowledged the unusual roster mix, noting that seven newcomers—six logging heavy minutes—are learning on the fly. “It’s just going to take tons of communication, experience, and going through mistakes together,” Simons said. With Simons’ scoring, Collin Sexton’s relentless energy, and Ivey’s desire to rebound from injury, the Bulls expect effort to remain high even as the revamped group navigates growing pains.
Source: Hoops Rumors
