8 Players Who Could Leave The Chicago Bulls In The Offseason

   

The 2024-25 season marked another disappointing chapter for the Chicago Bulls, who finished with a 39-43 record and failed to advance beyond the play-in tournament, losing to the Miami Heat. The midseason departures of DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine signaled a clear shift in direction, as the front office began dismantling the core that had failed to deliver postseason success.

Heat dominate Bulls, win 109-90 to advance in Play-In Tournament – NBC  Chicago

In return, the Bulls acquired veterans like Kevin Huerter, Tre Jones, and Zach Collins, along with regaining control of their 2025 first-round pick. With only one winning season since 2016 and a roster lacking a definitive star, the Bulls are now at a crossroads. 

Executive Arturas Karnisovas has urged fans to be patient, indicating that more changes are on the horizon. As the franchise looks to reset and build for the future, several players could be on the move this offseason. Here are eight Bulls who might be wearing different jerseys by the start of the 2025-26 season.


1. Coby White

Apr 9, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro (14) defends Chicago Bulls guard Coby White (0) during the first quarter at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
 

Apr 9, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro (14) defends Chicago Bulls guard Coby White (0) during the first quarter at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

 

Coby White emerged as a bright spot for the Bulls during the 2024-25 season, averaging 20.4 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game while shooting 45.3% from the field. His scoring prowess and improved playmaking have made him an attractive asset for teams seeking a dynamic guard. White is entering the final year of his three-year, $36 million contract, making him a potential trade candidate for the Bulls as they look to acquire future assets.

While White's offensive contributions are undeniable, the Bulls' commitment to a full rebuild may prompt them to explore trade opportunities. His value is at an all-time high, and moving him could yield valuable draft picks or young talent to aid in the team's long-term plans. Given the current trajectory, it's plausible that White could be on the move this offseason.


2. Josh Giddey

Apr 6, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Josh Giddey (3) brings the ball upcourt against the Charlotte Hornets during the second half at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Nell Redmond-Imagn Images
 

Apr 6, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Josh Giddey (3) brings the ball upcourt against the Charlotte Hornets during the second half at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Nell Redmond-Imagn Images

In his first season in Chicago, Josh Giddey quickly became a focal point for the Bulls, showcasing his versatility with averages of 14.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game. His all-around game and high basketball IQ have drawn comparisons to elite playmakers, and the Bulls are reportedly preparing a substantial contract offer to retain him.

However, Giddey is a restricted free agent ($11,142,057 qualifying offer), and other teams may present offers that the Bulls are unwilling to match. While the front office appears committed to building around him, the financial implications of a significant contract could complicate matters. If negotiations stall or another team presents an enticing offer, Giddey's future in Chicago could be uncertain.


3. Nikola Vucevic

Apr 6, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Chicago Bulls center Nikola Vucevic (9) stands on the court during the second half against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Nell Redmond-Imagn Images
 

Apr 6, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Chicago Bulls center Nikola Vucevic (9) stands on the court during the second half against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Nell Redmond-Imagn Images

Veteran center Nikola Vucevic continued to be a reliable presence for the Bulls, averaging 18.5 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. Despite his consistent production, the 34-year-old's defensive limitations and the team's rebuilding direction make his future with the Bulls questionable.

Vucevic is under contract through the 2025-26 season ($21,481,481), but his age and declining defensive capabilities may prompt the Bulls to explore trade options. Finding a suitable trade partner could be challenging, but moving Vucevic would align with the team's focus on developing younger talent.


4. Patrick Williams

Apr 13, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Patrick Williams (44) passes the ball against the Philadelphia 76ers in the fourth quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images
 

Patrick Williams' development has been hindered by injuries, limiting him to 63 games in the 2024-25 season. He averaged 9.0 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game, showing flashes of his potential but struggling with consistency.

Having signed a five-year, $90 million contract extension, the Bulls have invested in Williams' future. However, if his past performance doesn't align with expectations, the team may consider moving him to free up cap space and acquire assets that better fit their rebuilding timeline.


5. Kevin Huerter

Apr 13, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Kevin Huerter (13) reacts after scoring against the Philadelphia 76ers in the second quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images
 

Kevin Huerter joined the Bulls as part of a midseason trade and averaged 9.9 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. While his shooting ability is valuable, his role in the Bulls' long-term plans is uncertain.

Under contract through the 2025-26 season ($17,991,071), Huerter could be an attractive trade asset for teams seeking perimeter shooting. If the Bulls prioritize developing younger players, they may look to move Huerter to acquire future draft picks or prospects.


6. Lonzo Ball

Feb 28, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Lonzo Ball (2) hits a three point shot against Toronto Raptors guard Jamal Shead (23) during overtime at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images
 

After missing significant time due to injuries, Lonzo Ball returned to action, averaging 7.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. The Bulls extended his contract by two years at $20 million ($10,000,000 next season with a $10,000,000 team option the following year), indicating a level of commitment to his recovery and potential.

However, Ball's injury history and the team's rebuilding focus may lead the Bulls to consider trading him if a suitable offer arises. His playmaking and defensive skills could attract interest from contending teams in need of a versatile guard.


7. Zach Collins

Apr 13, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan reacts with forward Zach Collins (12) against the Philadelphia 76ers in the third quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images
 

Zach Collins provided frontcourt depth for the Bulls, averaging 6.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game. While his contributions were modest, his size and experience are valuable assets.

With a contract extending through the 2025-26 season ($18,080,496), Collins could be included in trade packages as the Bulls seek to reconfigure their roster. His departure would align with the team's emphasis on developing younger players and acquiring future assets.


8. Jalen Smith

Mar 17, 2025; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Jalen Smith (7) warms up before the game against the Utah Jazz at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-Imagn Images
 

Jalen Smith played a supporting role for the Bulls, averaging 8.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game. His athleticism and potential make him an intriguing prospect for teams looking to bolster their frontcourt.

Under contract through the next two seasons ($9,000,000 and $9,428,571), Smith could be a candidate for trade if the Bulls receive offers that align with their rebuilding strategy. His departure would provide opportunities for other young players to take on larger roles.