The Chicago Bulls are heading into the 2024-25 season amidst a period of transition and uncertainty. After another underwhelming season that saw them miss the playoffs, the Bulls made some significant changes in the offseason. They traded away DeMar DeRozan in a sign-and-trade deal with the Sacramento Kings , receiving Chris Duarte, two second-round picks, and cash considerations in return. Additionally, they acquired Josh Giddey from the Oklahoma City Thunder and signed Jalen Smith from the Indiana Pacers. These moves, still, have left fans skeptical about the team’s direction and potential for success this season.
The Bulls also had a relatively quiet NBA Draft, selecting Matas Buzelis with the 11th overall pick. While Buzelis shows promise, the overall lack of high-impact additions has left many wondering if the Bulls have done enough to compete in a tough Eastern Conference. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, let’s take a closer look at the current starting lineup and bench, and whether they are equipped to avoid another disappointing campaign.
Point Guards
Coby White, Josh Giddey, Lonzo Ball
Coby White is expected to start at point guard for the Bulls this season. Last season, White averaged 19.1 points, 5.1 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game. His ability to score and distribute the ball will be crucial for the Bulls' offense. White's development into a more consistent and reliable playmaker will be key as the team navigates the challenges of the new season.
Josh Giddey, acquired from the Oklahoma City Thunder, brings a unique skill set to the Bulls' backcourt. Known for his exceptional passing and court vision, Giddey averaged 12.3 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game last season. His ability to create opportunities for his teammates and contribute on the boards makes him a valuable addition. Giddey's versatility allows him to play both guard positions, providing the Bulls with flexibility in their lineup.
Lonzo Ball's status remains uncertain due to ongoing injury concerns, but if healthy, he adds another layer of playmaking and defensive capability to the Bulls' backcourt. Ball's ability to push the pace, distribute the ball, and defend multiple positions is well-documented. However, his health will be a critical factor in determining his impact this season.
With White's scoring, Giddey's playmaking, and the potential return of Ball, the Bulls' point guard rotation offers a mix of young talent and experienced skill, though their success will heavily depend on staying healthy and developing chemistry on the court.
Shooting Guards
Zach LaVine, Ayo Dosunmu, Jevon Carter
Zach LaVine continues to be a leading scorer for the Bulls. Last season, LaVine averaged 19.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game. His scoring ability and athleticism are vital to Chicago's offensive efforts, providing a consistent threat from the perimeter and in transition.
Ayo Dosunmu showed growth last season, averaging 12.2 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. Known for his defensive tenacity and versatility, Dosunmu's development as a reliable scorer and playmaker off the bench will be crucial for the Bulls' rotation.
Jevon Carter, known for his defensive prowess and three-point shooting, averaged 5.4 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game last season. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute offensively makes him a valuable addition to the team.
With LaVine's scoring, Dosunmu's all-around game, and Carter's defensive skills, the Bulls have a strong and versatile group of shooting guards ready to make an impact in the 2024-25 season.
Small Forwards
Matas Buzelis, Chris Duarte, Torrey Craig
Matas Buzelis, drafted 11th overall, brings excitement to the Bulls with his potential as a versatile forward. Standing at 6'10", Buzelis possesses a unique combination of size, skill, and athleticism that allows him to contribute on both ends of the floor. His ability to handle the ball, shoot from a distance, and defend multiple positions makes him an intriguing addition to the Bulls' roster.
Chris Duarte, acquired in a trade from the Sacramento Kings, averaged 3.9 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 0.7 assists per game last season. His shooting and defensive abilities will be valuable for the Bulls, providing depth and reliability off the bench.
Torrey Craig, known for his defensive prowess, averaged 5.4 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game last season. His experience and ability to guard multiple positions add valuable versatility to the Bulls' wing rotation.
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Power Forwards
Patrick Williams, Julian Phillips
Patrick Williams, a key piece in the Bulls' lineup, averaged 10.0 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game last season. Known for his defensive versatility and ability to contribute offensively, Williams is expected to continue his development and play a significant role in the Bulls' frontcourt. This offseason, Williams signed a five-year, $90 million contract extension with the Bulls. This new deal reflects the team's commitment to him as a foundational player. The extension secures his presence in Chicago, allowing him to focus on consistency and growth without the distraction of contract negotiations.
Julian Phillips, a promising young forward, adds depth to the power forward position. As he enters the new season, Phillips will be looking to make an impact with his energy and athleticism. His ability to contribute on both ends of the floor will be crucial for providing valuable minutes off the bench.
Centers
Nikola Vucevic, Jalen Smith, Adama Sanogo
Nikola Vucevic remains a key player for the Bulls. Last season, he averaged 17.6 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game, providing a strong presence in the paint with his scoring and rebounding abilities. Vucevic's experience and versatility as a big man make him an essential part of Chicago’s lineup.
Jalen Smith, a recent addition to the Bulls, adds depth to the center position. Last season, Smith averaged 9.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game while playing for the Indiana Pacers. His ability to contribute on both ends of the floor will be valuable for the Bulls as they look to strengthen their frontcourt rotation.
Adama Sanogo, a promising young center, is set to provide additional depth and energy off the bench. Known for his rebounding and defensive skills, Sanogo's development will be crucial as he adjusts to the NBA level and contributes to the team's interior defense and rebounding efforts.
The Bulls Are Ready To Make More Moves
The Chicago Bulls are gearing up for a strategic rebuild with an eye on the 2025 NBA Draft, particularly aiming for high school sensation Cooper Flagg. To position themselves for a top pick, the Bulls are exploring significant trades involving key players Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic.
Zach LaVine, who has been a crucial scorer for the Bulls, faces a challenging trade market due to his recent injury history and the hefty three years remaining on his $215 million contract. Despite these difficulties, the Bulls are motivated to move LaVine to acquire valuable draft assets and young talent. His current trade value is low, so any deal would likely involve the Bulls taking back less-than-ideal contracts or attaching additional assets to facilitate a trade.
Nikola Vucevic, another veteran the Bulls are looking to trade, has a contract running for two more years at $20 million annually. His declining three-point shooting and defensive capabilities have made him less attractive on the trade market. Nonetheless, the Bulls are seeking to offload Vucevic to free up cap space and acquire draft picks or young players.
The Bulls are building around promising young talents like Matas Buzelis, Coby White, and Josh Giddey. Buzelis, the 11th overall pick, brings size and versatility, while White and Giddey have shown significant growth and potential. White had a breakout season, and Giddey, acquired from the Thunder, provides exceptional playmaking ability.
By trading LaVine and Vucevic, the Bulls aim to collect more draft picks and young assets. Their strategy involves focusing on developing their young core and positioning themselves for a high lottery pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Landing Cooper Flagg, a highly touted prospect, could provide the franchise with a new cornerstone to build around.
The Bulls' plan to trade their veterans and focus on the draft underscores their commitment to a thorough rebuild. With Buzelis, White, and Giddey leading the charge, and the potential addition of Cooper Flagg, the Bulls are setting the stage for a brighter future. This approach allows them to rebuild with a young, dynamic roster, positioning Chicago for long-term success in the NBA.
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