The Chicago Bulls have drawn interest in point guard Tre Jones and forward/center Jalen Smith in recent weeks, according to a report by Julia Poe of the Chicago Tribune. League sources told Poe that Jones is considered available, while Chicago is expected to keep Smith unless a compelling proposal emerges.
Both players hold fully guaranteed contracts for 2026-27, and Jones’ deal includes an $8 million team option for 2027-28. Poe added that any Bull on an expiring contract could be moved if the return meets the front office’s price. Chicago has already demonstrated a willingness to absorb unwanted salary, agreeing to acquire Dario Saric for two second-round picks and waiving Jevon Carter to create a roster spot.
Head coach Billy Donovan emphasized the organization’s commitment to adding younger talent. “We have to keep building out with younger people,” Donovan said. “If you’re just talking about the guys that are here that are going to be under contract, they’re going to need more.”
Kings considered deadline’s biggest sellers
Multiple executives view the Sacramento Kings as the most active sellers, Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints reported. Sacramento explored trading guard Keon Ellis for multiple second-round selections but prioritized shedding Dennis Schroder’s salary and targeted Atlanta forward DeAndre Hunter for his size and positional fit. The Los Angeles Lakers also expressed interest in Hunter but balked at absorbing the $24.9 million he is owed next season without draft compensation, Siegel wrote.
Sacramento has made trade calls involving Domantas Sabonis, DeMar DeRozan and Malik Monk, with sources indicating Monk is the player the club is most motivated to move. The Toronto Raptors have shown some interest in Sabonis, but league chatter suggests limited markets for DeRozan or Monk.
Cavaliers shop Lonzo Ball
The Cleveland Cavaliers continue to dangle guard Lonzo Ball, Siegel noted. Ball is earning $10 million this year and has a $10 million team option for 2026-27 after a disappointing first season in Cleveland.
If Cleveland commits long term to Ellis, who becomes extension-eligible on Feb. 9, that decision could influence the futures of Sam Merrill and Max Strus. Merrill has played well when healthy, while Strus has yet to appear this season due to offseason foot surgery and enters the final year of his contract in 2026-27. Any moves involving those wings are expected to wait until the summer.
Nets receive inquiries on Sharpe
The Brooklyn Nets are reluctant to move backup center DayRon Sharpe, but the Lakers, Raptors, Celtics and Pacers have all checked in on his availability, according to Siegel.
With the trade deadline approaching, teams across the league continue to weigh offers involving both short-term salary dumps and longer-term roster fits.
Source: Hoops Rumors
