What’s Next for the Bulls After Another Disappointing Season
The Bulls wrapped up another frustrating year and finished 39–43 before being eliminated after a loss to the Miami Heat in the Play-In round. Their back-to-back seasons are stuck in mediocrity, and change is long overdue.
The front office now faces a critical offseason full of tough calls, big questions, and long-term planning. What moves could finally push this team forward? These possibilities show where the group might turn next.
Take a Hard Look at the Core
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Chicago’s current mix of players hasn’t delivered consistent results. Coby White seemed like a bright spot, but others haven’t progressed as hoped. It’s time to evaluate who fits long-term and who doesn’t. Keeping talent just for name recognition won’t work. The Bulls must build around athletes who actually contribute to winning basketball, night in, night out.
Reconsider Billy Donovan’s Role
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Billy Donovan has coached through several shuffles, but results have plateaued. The offense lacks creativity, and the defense remains shaky. Evaluating his approach, player record, and ability to adjust in real time should be a priority. If there’s a better fit available, this might be the summer to explore that coaching change.
Shift Focus to Youth Training
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Veteran-heavy rotations have limited chances for younger players to grow. With names like Dalen Terry and Julian Phillips on the bench, it’s time to start investing in internal development. Giving young talent real playing time now could pay dividends later. The team can’t improve if the next generation never gets on the floor.
Explore the Trade Market Again
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At the deadline, the Bulls moved on from DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine—clear signs they’re willing to reshape the roster. One key piece of those trades was regaining their 2025 first-round pick from San Antonio, which gave them more flexibility. That mindset should continue. They could choose to flip role players or move veterans for picks, but unlocking smart deals can help improve flexibility. The key is finding value, instead of just clearing space.
Rebuild the Point Guard Depth
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Injuries and inconsistency left the athletes exposed at point guard. Although Coby White made strides, he still needs help. A steady backup or floor general with pass-first instincts could stabilize the offense. Finding a guard who can control tempo, make smart reads, and defend opposing playmakers should be high on the front office’s list.
Improve Defensive Consistency
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Effort comes and goes, rotations break down, and the Bulls give up too many open looks and second-chance points. Defensive identity has to become more than talk, and it needs to show up every game. That means personnel changes, yes, but also holding team members accountable and making defense a non-negotiable part of the culture.
Create a Clear Offensive Identity
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Too often, the group stalls into isolation-heavy sets with little off-ball movement. Good teams share the ball, create open looks, and use spacing to their advantage. The current picks have shooting and size, but what’s missing is a system that brings it together. Installing an offense built around pace, passing, and reads has the power to change everything.
Make the Most of the Draft
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The Bulls have a mid-first-round pick in the upcoming draft—an opportunity to add a key piece for the future. Scouting should focus on smart, high-upside players who can develop into long-term contributors. This isn’t the year for risky swings or overly safe picks. Landing a rookie who’s ready to contribute right away would help ease salary cap pressure and give fans something to rally behind.
Maximize the Offseason for Development
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Summer isn’t just for rest. It’s the best time to turn weaknesses into strengths. Players like Patrick Williams and Ayo Dosunmu still have room to grow—but only if they’re challenged. One of the things for the front office to do right now is to build offseason programs that emphasize skill-building, decision-making, and physical conditioning across the entire group, not just the stars.
Get More Out of the Bench Unit
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Everyone knows that the Bulls’ bench has struggled to keep pace with other teams. Scoring drops, ball movement disappears, and energy fades when starters sit. This needs to change. Investing in dependable role athletes who can shoot, defend, and move the ball will help keep games competitive for all 48 minutes. Depth wins games.
Plan Smart Around the Cap
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Money matters, and the team can’t afford mistakes with their salary cap situation. Avoiding bloated contracts and short-sighted signings will be key. Each dollar must go to someone who contributes consistently. Once they start prioritizing value deals and flexibility, they will be able to make it easier to add the right people as opportunities arise throughout the season.
Build a Stronger Locker Room Culture
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Winning starts off the court. The team needs leaders who challenge teammates, communicate openly, and maintain accountability. Culture can’t be forced, but it can be shaped. This group could be pushed toward a more unified mindset by bringing in veterans who lead by example, or promote internal voices who already command respect.
Set Clear Goals for the Season
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Drifting through a season with vague hopes rarely ends well. The Bulls can establish clear internal targets, like playoff seeding, defensive rankings, or win totals. Once they have something to aim for, it will give the roster purpose and structure. When everyone knows what’s expected, it’s easier to stay focused, motivated, and accountable from day one.
Use Analytics More Effectively
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Shot selection and matchup advantages aren’t guesswork anymore. Teams that use analytics win more often. It is up to the players to lean further into advanced metrics to guide decisions, from who plays when to which lineups work best. Every edge counts, and data offers plenty if leadership is willing to dig in and use it.
Reconnect With the Fanbase
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The United Center still fills seats, but frustration is growing. The organization needs to be more transparent with its direction and more visible in the community. Town halls, fan Q&As, and honest updates can help rebuild trust. When fans feel included, they stick around—especially during transition years like this one.
Invest in a Legit Shooting Coach
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Outside shooting remains inconsistent. Rather than wait for improvement, this is the time to bring in a shooting specialist to work with the full roster. Even minor tweaks can make a huge difference in confidence and spacing. Teams that shoot well stretch the floor. It won’t be possible to thrive unless this weakness is fixed.
Commit to a Vision and Stick With It
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This franchise has wavered between retooling and rebuilding. It’s time to pick a direction and follow through. Mixed signals lead to middling results. The front office can come up with a youth-first plan or a push for immediate wins, but they must commit, communicate, and stay consistent. That clarity will drive all decisions that follow.