Bulls Shift Focus to Future Amid Rebuilding Efforts

CHICAGO, Ill. — The Chicago Bulls are redefining their approach as they navigate a challenging 2024-25 NBA season. Following the trade of two-time All-Star Zach LaVine, the franchise is prioritizing development and future potential over competing for a playoff spot.

Vice President of Basketball Operations Arturas Karnisovas faces scrutiny for the team’s lack of direction, which has left the Bulls mired in mediocrity—too inept to compete but too competent to bottom out. The franchise currently sits in a precarious position, likely to miss the Play-In Tournament for the third consecutive year.

Since the LaVine trade, which brought three mid-level players to the Bulls, Chicago has stumbled, posting a 3-9 record, including a troubling 1-7 stretch over their last eight games. Looking ahead, the Bulls’ management is focusing on the development of promising young players as the team inches toward a rebuild.

“We are looking to the future,” Karnisovas stated. “It’s essential to see which of our young players can contribute as we build for the next competitive team.”

A shining star since LaVine’s exit is rookie Matas Buzelis, a versatile player slated to experience increased minutes in the final stretch. Buzelis is notable for his skills and is being closely watched as a potential Rookie of the Year candidate.

Alongside Buzelis, forward Dalen Terry, a former first-round pick, has begun to see more playing time. After averaging just over 10 minutes a game prior to this month, he logged significant minutes in recent games, contributing 17 points against the Philadelphia 76ers in a 32-point victory.

“It felt great to get those minutes and show what I can do when given the opportunity,” Terry said after the performance. “I want to help this team whatever way I can.”

Meanwhile, Julian Phillips, another young asset for the Bulls, is pressing to solidify his role. The 21-year-old has shown promise as a 3-and-D player but has struggled for consistent playing time. His per-36 minute averages indicate he has the potential to impact the game significantly if given the chance.

In terms of the Bulls’ current roster, Smith has emerged as a potential player to watch. Serving as a backup center, he boasts impressive stats, averaging 20 points and 13 rebounds per game. However, despite showing potential as a starter, he has seen limited minutes due to the current coaching strategy.

Head coach Billy Donovan has been under fire for his choices during this rebuilding phase. Critics argue that his decisions, such as opting for Zach Collins over Smith in the center position, may hinder the team’s ability to grow and explore its young talent. Collins has recently stepped up his performance, reflecting the need for Donovan to utilize his roster more dynamically.

Looking ahead, the final games of the season are critical for the Bulls as they seek to gather insight into their players’ capabilities while potentially positioning themselves for a higher draft pick. Young prospects Josh Giddey and Collins are particularly in focus as the organization weighs their future roles.

“We know it’s a lot about development now,” Giddey remarked. “We just have to play hard and see where it leads us.”