Chicago Bulls Central

Are the Chicago Bulls done making moves, or is Bryson Graham keeping one chair open for a reason?On today's Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down why the Bulls may enter the regular season with their 15th full-time roster spot open. After days of smoke around Bennedict Mathurin, including reported interest from Chicago and praise from the Bulls' coaching staff, local reporting has suggested that the interest may be overstated. That does not completely kill the possibility, but it does make the Bulls' bigger priority clear: flexibility.Haize explains why keeping the final roster spot open may line up with Bryson Graham's front-office philosophy. Instead of rushing into a restricted free-agent sign-and-trade or adding a veteran just to fill the bench, Chicago could preserve flexibility to help facilitate trades, take on salary, or collect future draft capital if the right opportunity appears.Then the conversation gets bigger: Should the Bulls be watching the Orlando Magic and a potential second-apron crunch involving Paolo Banchero? If Orlando ever reaches a point where Banchero becomes available, should Chicago be aggressive even if the fit with Matas Buzelis and Caleb Wilson is imperfect?Plus, Haize looks ahead to 2027 free agency and why the 2026–27 season may be an evaluation year that determines whether the Bulls eventually pursue a player like Mathurin, Peyton Watson, or Jalen Duren.

Can Josh Giddey lead the NBA in assists next season? It may sound bold, but the numbers say the conversation is real.On today's Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down why Josh Giddey does not need an unrealistic statistical explosion to enter the assist-title race. Giddey averaged 9.1 assists in only 32.1 minutes per game last season, trailing league leader Nikola Jokić by just 1.6 assists per game. He did not officially qualify because he played only 54 games, but on a raw per-game basis, he would have ranked behind only Jokić and Cade Cunningham.Haize compares Giddey to the last three NBA assist champions: Jokić, Trae Young and Tyrese Haliburton. The recent assist-title range has been roughly 10.7 to 11.6 assists per game, meaning Giddey likely needs to add about 1.6 to 2.0 assists per game to become a true favorite.The Bulls' new roster gives him a real chance. Norman Powell gives Chicago a proven shooting scorer, Nic Claxton gives Giddey a vertical lob threat, Caleb Wilson is built for transition, cuts and hit-ahead passes, and Matas Buzelis could become the secondary scoring partner that turns more Giddey reads into assists.Plus, Haize lays out what Giddey must do to actually win the assist crown: play enough games, reach the 10.7 to 11.0 assist range, remain Chicago's clear primary initiator, improve his scoring gravity and cut down the wasteful turnovers.

Chicago Bulls fans keep saying the team should follow the blueprint of the Thunder, Spurs, Knicks or Pacers — but here's the problem: none of those teams followed the same blueprint themselves.On today's Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down why the Bulls cannot simply copy another franchise's rebuild. Oklahoma City converted established stars into historic asset value, San Antonio landed a generational prospect, New York identified Jalen Brunson before the league fully understood his ceiling, and Indiana retooled around Tyrese Haliburton instead of tearing everything down. The real lesson is not copying one path — it is identifying your own advantage and becoming aggressive at the right stage of your own timeline.Haize explains what the Bulls can actually borrow from each team: asset discipline from OKC, development standards from San Antonio, star identification from New York, and style-based roster building from Indiana. But Chicago cannot copy OKC's Paul George trade return, San Antonio's lottery luck, New York's Brunson leap, or Indiana's Haliburton trade.The Bulls are still in the discovery stage with Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, Nic Claxton, Dailyn Swain, Rob Dillingham, Noa Essengue, Leonard Miller and the rest of the young core. Before Bryson Graham makes a massive consolidation trade, Chicago must figure out who the organizing talent is, which young players fit together, and which players are true core pieces versus useful assets.

The Chicago Bulls may not be done looking for young talent — and the Bennedict Mathurin rumor could be a sign of how Bryson Graham is thinking.On today's Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down four young wild card guards the Bulls could monitor in the near future: Brice Sensabaugh, Scoot Henderson, Reed Sheppard, and Bub Carrington. None of these names should be treated like guaranteed targets, but each one raises an important team-building question for Chicago.Could Brice Sensabaugh become available if Utah's guard rotation gets crowded around Keyonte George, Darryn Peterson, Ace Bailey and Isaiah Collier? Could Scoot Henderson become a buy-low swing if Portland's guard room tightens with Damian Lillard, Jrue Holiday and Shaedon Sharpe? Could Reed Sheppard be the dream shooting fit next to Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis and Caleb Wilson if Houston's win-now push creates an opportunity? And could Bub Carrington be an overlooked floor-spacing guard if Washington prioritizes AJ Dybantsa, Alex Sarr, Tre Johnson and Will Riley?Then Haize gets into the bigger question: What should the Bulls do in February?If Chicago is competitive but sitting around the 9th, 10th, 11th or 12th spot in the Eastern Conference, does Bryson Graham buy, sell or stay patient? The previous Bulls front office repeatedly got trapped in the middle. Graham's challenge will be knowing whether progress means adding help, selling veterans like Norman Powell or Nic Claxton, or simply letting the young core develop without overreacting.

Can Tiago Splitter turn the Chicago Bulls into a top-15 defense immediately? Haize breaks down why the Bulls finally have the defensive personnel to make a real jump after allowing 121.5 points per game last season, ranking 28th in the NBA. With Nic Claxton, Isaac Okoro, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, Dailyn Swain, Leonard Miller and Tre Jones, Chicago now has far more size, length, versatility and defensive tools than the group that finished 31–51.Haize also looks at what Splitter's Portland defensive success could mean for Chicago. Portland used multiple coverages, controlled shot quality, finished fifth in blocks, allowed the sixth-fewest made threes, and ranked 14th in defensive rating. Now the question is whether Splitter can transfer those principles to a Bulls roster built around Claxton's rim protection, Okoro's point-of-attack defense, and the weak-side length of Buzelis and Wilson.Then the conversation shifts to the Bulls' rotation battle. The starting five looks clearer with Josh Giddey, Norman Powell, Caleb Wilson, Matas Buzelis and Nic Claxton, but the bench and “outside looking in” group could get ruthless fast. Players like Rob Dillingham, Dailyn Swain, Patrick Williams and Noa Essengue may have to fight for every minute under a new front office and head coach with no loyalty to the old regime.

The Chicago Bulls rumor mill is heating up — and now Bennedict Mathurin is reportedly a name to watch.Haize breaks down the latest report that Chicago has emerged as another known suitor alongside New Orleans for Clippers restricted free agent Bennedict Mathurin. Mathurin is officially on the 2026 restricted free-agent list after the Clippers issued him a qualifying offer, and Marc Stein previously reported New Orleans plus a second suitor had shown interest.Could Mathurin make sense for the Bulls? Haize looks at the fit, the cost, the restricted free agency complications, and whether Chicago should chase another young scoring wing now or preserve flexibility for the bigger 2027 picture.Then, the show turns to Jalen Duren vs Peyton Watson as possible 2027 Bulls targets. Duren is the bigger star swing, but Watson is the cleaner roster fit beside Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson and Nic Claxton. The current verdict: Watson fits the Bulls better as currently constructed, while Duren would require a bigger frontcourt reset.Plus, Haize reacts to Jalen Smith trade buzz after reported Lakers interest, and why Smith's shooting, expiring contract, and frontcourt versatility could make him one of Chicago's better trade chips.And finally, the Chicago Bulls 2026-27 preseason schedule is out — headlined by a must-watch Caleb Wilson vs Cameron Boozer rematch when the Bulls face Memphis.

The Chicago Bulls are entering a new era, but the roster still has major questions — and today's Chicago Bulls Central dives into three of the biggest.Haize breaks down why Norman Powell may be exactly what Caleb Wilson needs in his rookie season. Powell gives Chicago a proven scoring option who can take pressure off Wilson early, allowing the No. 4 pick to grow into his role instead of being forced to carry the offense right away.Then the conversation shifts to Josh Giddey's real position. Is he a point guard, shooting guard, small forward, or something more modern? Haize explains why Giddey should remain Chicago's primary offensive organizer while defending bigger guards/wings and spending more half-court possessions as a screener, cutter, and secondary playmaker.Plus, Noa Essengue's Bulls future may be more complicated than fans realize after an ugly Summer League and a crowded frontcourt. Essengue still has tools, length, mobility, and developmental upside, but Caleb Wilson, Matas Buzelis, Dailyn Swain, Leonard Miller, Jalen Smith, and others make his path to minutes much tougher.

Derrick Rose just gave Caleb Wilson the kind of co-sign that should have Chicago Bulls fans fired up.On today's Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down Derrick Rose's comments about Bulls rookie Caleb Wilson, including Rose saying he sees a little of himself in Wilson's belief, confidence, and mindset. Rose described Wilson as having the kind of “delusional” confidence elite athletes need — the belief that he can be the No. 1 player — and explained why that is something he respects.Haize also reacts to Rose's advice to Wilson about making “gambit” moves, sacrifice, discipline, and staying focused as the No. 4 overall pick begins his rookie journey in Chicago. Wilson honoring Rose with a silver rose pin on draft night only makes the connection even stronger.Then the conversation turns to the 2026 NBA Rookie of the Year race. Can Caleb Wilson become the fourth Bulls player ever to win ROY, joining Michael Jordan, Elton Brand, and Derrick Rose? After a dominant Summer League and rising odds from FanDuel and DraftKings, Wilson has already become one of the biggest names in the rookie race.

Did ESPN underrate the Chicago Bulls' offseason? Haize breaks down why a C+ grade for Bryson Graham's first offseason feels too harsh when the Bulls landed Caleb Wilson at No. 4, drafted Dailyn Swain at No. 15, added Nic Claxton, signed Norman Powell, brought back Zach Collins, and still maintained future flexibility.The Bulls did not have the flashiest offseason in the NBA, but they finally looked calculated. Powell's deal includes a team option, Claxton was added without giving up meaningful value, and Collins' deal also keeps Chicago flexible. That is a major change from the short-sighted roster-building Bulls fans have been frustrated with for years.Then Haize turns to Matas Buzelis' potential Most Improved Player case. Matas is focused on getting stronger, has upgraded his nutrition with a chef, wants to attack the rim more, has interest in working with Deni Avdija, and has already worked with Dirk Nowitzki on shooting. If Buzelis gets a bigger role under Tiago Splitter, could he enter the 2027 MIP conversation?

The Chicago Bulls suddenly have a real rotation problem — and that is a good thing.On today's Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down why Patrick Williams, Rob Dillingham, Dailyn Swain, Leonard Miller, and Noa Essengue may all have legitimate NBA talent, but not all of them are guaranteed regular minutes under Tiago Splitter.With projected starters Josh Giddey, Norman Powell, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, and Nic Claxton, plus established bench candidates like Tre Jones, Isaac Okoro, Jalen Smith, and Zach Collins, the Bulls may only have one or two dependable rotation spots left unless Splitter consistently plays 11 deep.Haize explains why the battle will be decided by specific utility, not draft position, contract size, or theoretical upside. Patrick Williams must become a dependable 3-and-D forward. Rob Dillingham has to prove his shot creation outweighs his defensive concerns. Dailyn Swain needs to win minutes through defense, rebounding, and connective play. Leonard Miller must turn activity into a repeatable role. Noa Essengue likely needs Windy City reps before becoming a true rotation option.Plus, Haize reacts to Bill Simmons comparing Caleb Wilson to Tracy McGrady after Wilson's monster Summer League run, and why Bulls fans should be excited while still keeping expectations grounded. Wilson averaged 23.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.2 steals, and 2.5 blocks while shooting 50% from the field and 41.9% from three.Also: Tre Jones gets called a Bulls hidden gem, and Haize explains why his steady playmaking, efficiency, and $8 million salary could matter more than fans realize.

Caleb Wilson and Matas Buzelis are already putting in work — and that could matter more than Bulls fans realize.On today's Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down why Wilson's rookie season could become one of the biggest swing factors in the entire Bulls rebuild. After saying he was not taking time off after Summer League, Wilson was already back on the court in Chicago at a South Side Pro Run, where he was spotted building chemistry with Buzelis — including an alley-oop connection that should have Bulls fans excited for October.But the bigger question is this: Can Caleb Wilson show enough as a rookie to change how aggressive Bryson Graham needs to be next offseason?Haize breaks down the six things Wilson must prove: a potentially elite NBA trait, a respectable jumper, multiple frontcourt roles, improved decision-making, defense that translates beyond highlights, and functional fit next to Matas Buzelis and Josh Giddey.Plus, we look at the Bulls' possible 2027 cap flexibility. Depending on team options for Norman Powell, Zach Collins and Tre Jones, Chicago could have anywhere from practical starter-level money to major flexibility in the $60–70 million range.Also: Dailyn Swain's Summer League was rough, but his mindset after struggling as a de facto point guard should give Bulls fans a reason to avoid panic.

Did the Chicago Bulls improve enough to climb the Eastern Conference—or did the rest of the East improve even faster?On this episode of Chicago Bulls Central, Haize examines Chicago's position after an offseason that added Caleb Wilson, Dailyn Swain, Norman Powell, Nic Claxton, and head coach Tiago Splitter.The Bulls are more athletic, more balanced and far more intriguing than last season's 31-51 team, but the Eastern Conference has become a battlefield. The defending champion New York Knicks remain loaded, Miami added Giannis Antetokounmpo, Philadelphia acquired Jaylen Brown, Detroit improved its shooting, Atlanta added Lu Dort and Aaron Wiggins, and Indiana expects Tyrese Haliburton back.Where does that leave Chicago: a legitimate 40-win play-in threat or another development team stuck near the bottom?Haize also reacts to Matas Buzelis' candid conversation with Lonzo Ball, including Ball's claim that Billy Donovan placed Buzelis on a leash. Buzelis discussed learning the business side of the NBA, his desire to attack the rim more, possible offseason work with Deni Avdija and his effort to speed up his decision-making with Lithuania.Plus, Caleb Wilson earned All-Summer League First Team honors after averaging 23.5 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.3 steals and 2.5 blocks while shooting 41.9 percent from three. Is Rookie of the Year now a realistic expectation?

 It's time for a Facts or Cap: Post Summer League & Draft Edition on Chicago Bulls Central!Haize breaks down the biggest Bulls fan debates after Summer League, the NBA Draft, and Chicago's offseason moves. Is Dailyn Swain already a bust after a rough Summer League? Should fans expect the Bulls to trade Norman Powell, Nic Claxton, or Zach Collins? Did Bryson Graham waste the second-round picks? And is anyone seriously saying Caleb Wilson doesn't need development?Plus, Haize dives into the latest Bulls frontcourt conversation: should Chicago consider a reunion with former Bulls big man Daniel Gafford if the Dallas Mavericks continue fielding offers? Gafford would give the Bulls another rim-running, shot-blocking center next to Nic Claxton — but his contract and fit make the conversation more complicated.Then, we get into the best part: Caleb Wilson's mindset. The Bulls rookie says he is taking no time off, knows exactly what he needs to improve, and is already focused on tightening his handle, playing off two feet, handling NBA physicality, reading closeouts, and making quicker decisions before training camp.

The Chicago Bulls 2026-27 season is shaping up to be one of the most interesting years in recent franchise history — but fans need to understand what this team really is.Haize breaks down why the Bulls are more talented, more athletic, younger, longer, faster, and better constructed than last year's 31-51 roster, but still very much a development team. The projected starting lineup of Josh Giddey, Norman Powell, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, and Nic Claxton gives Chicago real intrigue, while players like Tre Jones, Rob Dillingham, Dailyn Swain, Isaac Okoro, Patrick Williams, Leonard Miller, Noa Essengue, Jalen Smith, Zach Collins, Jaylin Sellers, and Tobe Awaka will battle for roles in camp.Summer League changed some expectations. Caleb Wilson looks ready for a real rotation role, while Dailyn Swain looked less ready than expected, and Noa Essengue still appears to be a developmental project. That does not kill anyone's long-term outlook — but it does change what Chicago should expect from them early.Haize also dives into the Bulls' biggest hurdles: shooting, half-court spacing, late-clock creation, point-of-attack defense, physicality, defensive rebounding, crowded forward minutes, and balancing development with winning.Plus, the training camp evaluations are going to be intense. Dailyn Swain, Rob Dillingham, Noa Essengue, Patrick Williams, Leonard Miller, Isaac Okoro, Jaylin Sellers, Jalen Smith, and Zach Collins all have major questions to answer before opening night.

Can Nic Claxton become a high-level defensive center again for the Chicago Bulls? That's the major question Haize breaks down on today's Chicago Bulls Central.Claxton's defensive decline is real, but it may also be contextual. He went from a system that maximized his switchability and rim protection to years of changing coverages, weaker team defense, more offensive responsibility, and a significant back issue. The Bulls are betting that a healthier Claxton, placed in a cleaner role under Tiago Splitter, can recover much of his previous impact.The numbers show the drop: Claxton's blocks fell from 2.5 per game to 1.1, his block percentage dipped from 7.1% to 3.7%, defensive win shares dropped from 4.0 to 1.5, and his defensive box plus-minus slid from +2.2 to +0.6.Haize explains why Brooklyn's scheme changes, Claxton's back injury, declining roster talent, rebounding drop-off, and expanded offensive role all played a part — and why Chicago's path should be built around hybrid coverages, better point-of-attack defense, team rebounding from Caleb Wilson and Matas Buzelis, and workload management.Plus, the voicemail bag gets into Caleb Wilson's Rookie of the Year chances, Josh Giddey's All-Star odds, Matas Buzelis as a Most Improved candidate, summer league takeaways, Dailyn Swain concerns, and potential Bulls trade targets like Max Strus.

Caleb Wilson has already drawn major comparisons to Kevin Garnett, and Bulls fans can understand why. The size, mobility, defensive flashes, rebounding instincts, transition ability, and competitive edge all make the comparison appealing. But Haize explains why the Bulls must be careful not to turn a useful trait comparison into an unfair Hall of Fame expectation.Wilson may share some Garnett-like traits, but he is still a 19-year-old rookie who needs to build his own NBA identity. The focus should be on developing his jumper, handle, strength, defensive discipline, decision-making, and playmaking — not asking him to recreate one of the greatest power forward careers in basketball history. Wilson himself has pushed back on treating Hall of Fame comparisons like direct projections while acknowledging the shared mentality and approach.Haize also breaks down the Bulls' Summer League finale against the Cleveland Cavaliers, where Chicago played without Caleb Wilson, Dailyn Swain, and Noa Essengue. That gave the developmental roster a chance to show who could stick around heading into training camp and Windy City Bulls consideration. Donovan Atwell scored 22 points while shooting 6-of-7 from three, Jaylin Sellers finished with 17 points and showed vocal leadership, and Tobe Awaka continued to show value on the glass.

Chicago Bulls rookie Caleb Wilson has given fans a lot to be excited about through Summer League, but the real story is not his declining three-point percentage — it is how quickly defenses changed the way they guarded him.After Wilson erupted for 35 points and 7 made threes in his Summer League debut, teams stopped daring him to shoot. That matters. It means defenses already began respecting his jumper, and now the next step is learning how to punish teams when they take that shot away. Haize breaks down what Summer League has truly proved about Wilson, why his mentality is the biggest reason for optimism, and what he still must improve before the regular season.Wilson's key development areas include tightening his handle, attacking closeouts, finishing through contact, improving as a playmaker, becoming more reliable at the free-throw line, simplifying decisions, and staying disciplined defensively.Plus, the Bulls may need to look at the veteran wing market with their final roster spot. Dailyn Swain has struggled badly in Summer League, shooting 4-for-31 through four games, but Chicago should not give up on him. Instead, the Bulls may need a veteran guard-wing option who can protect the rotation, create real competition, and allow Swain to develop at the right pace.

 The Chicago Bulls front office reset may be the most important move of the entire offseason.Haize breaks down why Artūras Karnišovas failed as the leader of the Bulls' basketball operation — not because he was a bad person, but because his process, communication, player evaluation, and refusal to choose a real direction left Chicago stuck in the NBA's middle for years.From reported tunnel vision on players like Patrick Williams, to poor internal communication, to staff members feeling ignored, the previous front office created a Bulls team without clear organizational alignment.Now, Bryson Graham has not proven he can build a contender yet — but through one offseason, the process already feels different. Graham has publicly acknowledged a rebuild, opened up collaboration across scouting, analytics, player development, and basketball operations, hired Tiago Splitter to match the roster timeline, and built around young pieces like Caleb Wilson, Dailyn Swain, Matas Buzelis, Josh Giddey, Noa Essengue, and Nic Claxton.Haize also explains why Graham still deserves criticism for the second-round pick decisions, but why his willingness to take accountability matters.

 The Chicago Bulls beat the Washington Wizards 99-87 in NBA Summer League, and the win showed more than just highlight plays — it showed signs of real developmental progress.Haize breaks down why Caleb Wilson's 19 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 blocks may be more important than another massive scoring explosion. Wilson showed a more complete game, impacting the floor as a scorer, rebounder, passer, and rim protector without needing to dominate every possession.But the biggest story may have been the Bulls' two-way players. Jaylin Sellers exploded for 24 points, 3 assists, and 3 steals, while Donovan Atwell drilled six threes on his way to 19 points and may be forcing his way into Chicago's two-way conversation. Tobe Awaka also impressed with 14 points, 10 rebounds, 3 steals, and 2 blocks, giving the Bulls another strong developmental showing.Plus, Haize previews Game 4 against the undefeated Los Angeles Lakers, where the Bulls young core will face a stronger test. Dailyn Swain must turn his connective impact into scoring pressure, Noa Essengue needs to stack another productive two-way performance, and Wilson must continue showing controlled all-around dominance.Also, Tiago Splitter's coaching staff is reportedly taking shape, with experienced assistants Rex Kalamian, Jonah Herscu, and Blake Ahearn expected to join the Bulls' bench.

The Chicago Bulls dropped their second NBA Summer League game, falling 80-63 to the Utah Jazz in a sloppy, physical matchup that exposed several areas Chicago must clean up before Game 3.The Bulls and Jazz combined for 39 turnovers, 54 fouls, and struggled badly from the field, creating the kind of ugly Summer League game that tests development more than highlight reels. Caleb Wilson still stuffed the stat sheet with 19 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, and 5 blocks, but his offense came later than expected, and the Bulls need him to control the game earlier against Washington.Haize breaks down what Wilson must show in Game 3 — especially if he faces No. 1 pick AJ Dybantsa — and why the goal should be controlled dominance, not chasing another viral scoring night.Plus, Dailyn Swain struggled again, finishing with 4 points, 8 rebounds, 1 assist, 3 turnovers, and 0-of-9 shooting. Should Bulls fans be concerned, or is the point guard experiment making it harder to evaluate him properly?Also, Noa Essengue flashed defensive activity with 6 points, 5 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks, but did not return after the third quarter after appearing to deal with an injury issue.

The Chicago Bulls' Norman Powell signing makes a lot more sense after hearing him explain why he chose Chicago.Haize breaks down why Powell's arrival is not just about scoring — it is about leadership, structure, accountability, and helping a young Bulls roster learn how to win. Powell spoke openly about wanting to be a vocal leader, lead by example, and help guide a young team both on and off the floor. For a Bulls team built around Caleb Wilson, Matas Buzelis, Josh Giddey, Dailyn Swain, Noa Essengue, and Nic Claxton, that matters.The deal also gives Chicago flexibility. Powell's reported two-year, $45.5 million contract with a team option in year two gives Bryson Graham a veteran scorer now without sacrificing long-term control. That makes Powell both a stabilizer and a potential asset.Plus, Caleb Wilson continues to check the right boxes after his monster Summer League debut. Wilson explained why he is glad he did not shoot many threes at UNC, joked about finally having basketball as his full-time job, and revealed he has been taking 2,000 to 2,500 shots per day while preparing for Year 1.

Are the Chicago Bulls actually further ahead than fans thought?After Caleb Wilson's explosive Summer League debut, Matas Buzelis' growth, Josh Giddey's playmaking skill set, and the new roster structure around Tiago Splitter, it may be time for Bulls fans to shift the conversation from “Are the Bulls stuck?” to “Did Chicago finally build a real developmental foundation?”Haize breaks down why the Bulls' new direction feels different — not because Chicago is suddenly a finished product, but because the outline finally makes basketball sense. Wilson gives the Bulls real frontcourt upside. Matas gives them a legitimate third-year leap candidate. Giddey gives them a 6-foot-8 organizer who can rebound, pass, and push pace. Add in Norman Powell, Nic Claxton, Dailyn Swain, Noa Essengue, and Splitter's developmental approach, and the Bulls may have a more coherent path than many expected.But Haize also keeps the conversation balanced. Shooting is still fragile. Half-court creation still has questions. Young players are inconsistent. Giddey still has to prove he can close games and survive defensively when defenses tighten up.

Caleb Wilson made his Chicago Bulls Summer League debut unforgettable.The Bulls may have dropped their first Las Vegas Summer League game to the Memphis Grizzlies, but the No. 4 overall pick gave fans exactly what they wanted to see. Caleb Wilson erupted for 35 points, shooting 12-of-21 from the field and a ridiculous 7-of-11 from three-point range, while also adding 5 rebounds, 3 blocks, and 2 steals. The biggest question about Wilson entering the NBA was the jumper — and in one game, he matched his entire UNC three-point make total from last season.Haize breaks down why Wilson's debut was more than just a hot shooting night, how he outplayed No. 3 pick Cam Boozer, and what still needs to improve after a six-turnover performance.Plus, the show dives into Dailyn Swain's rough first outing, why his on-ball role may have made things harder, and why Bulls fans should not panic after one Summer League game. Haize also reacts to Noa Essengue's strong defensive flashes after finishing with 10 points, 5 rebounds, 4 blocks, and 2 steals, and explains what each young Bull needs to show in Game 2 against the Utah Jazz.

The Chicago Bulls' offseason may not make them a top-tier Eastern Conference team overnight, but it absolutely set a new tone for the future.Haize breaks down why Bryson Graham's first offseason should be viewed as a win for the Bulls — not because Chicago is a finished product, but because the franchise finally has direction. After years of drifting between competing, retooling, developing, and protecting the old core, the Bulls now look younger, longer, faster, more athletic, more defensive, more developmental, and more flexible.The conversation starts with the front-office reset, the hiring of Tiago Splitter, and the roster identity now forming around Josh Giddey, Norman Powell, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, Nic Claxton, Dailyn Swain, Rob Dillingham, Noa Essengue, Leonard Miller, and more.But Haize also explains why the job is far from finished. The Bulls still need more shooting, more half-court creation, honest evaluation of Giddey's long-term role, and clear developmental roles for a crowded forward room.Plus, the Bulls may have quietly added some of the best undrafted shooters in Summer League. Could Jaylin Sellers, Donovan Atwell, Houston Mallette, Antonio Reeves, or Boo Buie steal a roster spot? And should Chicago look at Max Strus if Cleveland is shopping him to clear salary?

The Chicago Bulls may have just given fans the clearest look yet at their plan for rookie Dailyn Swain.On today's episode of Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down why Dailyn Swain should not be overlooked just because Caleb Wilson was the No. 4 pick. Swain may be the Bulls' “identity swing” — a long, athletic wing/guard who can defend, slash, rebound, push pace, create for others, and potentially handle real on-ball responsibility in Tiago Splitter's system.Swain said he expects to be on the ball a lot in Summer League, focusing on reads, trust, chemistry, and making teammates better. Splitter also praised Swain as a passer and ball-handler for his size, even describing him as someone the Bulls could use at the point if needed. That changes the conversation around Swain's role in Chicago.Haize also dives into why Swain fits Bryson Graham's profile: size, athleticism, defensive tools, downhill scoring, production growth, and developmental upside. But the biggest swing skill remains obvious — the jumper. If Swain becomes a reliable three-point shooter, his path changes from energy wing to potential long-term starter.Plus, Haize breaks down why Noa Essengue's Summer League matters. Noa is back after shoulder surgery, reportedly around 98%, listed near 6-foot-11, and may play the 3, 4, or 5 under Splitter. With Caleb Wilson and Matas Buzelis drawing most of the spotlight, Noa has a chance to remind Bulls fans why he was a lottery pick and prove he belongs in the new frontcourt picture.

Are the Chicago Bulls finally building the right way… or walking right back into the play-in trap?On today's episode of Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down the biggest question surrounding the new era in Chicago: did Bryson Graham and Tiago Splitter actually choose a real direction, or are the Bulls still trying to rebuild and win at the same time?The Bulls have a new front-office voice, a new head coach, a new young-core direction with Caleb Wilson and Dailyn Swain, plus key pieces like Matas Buzelis, Josh Giddey, Norman Powell, Nic Claxton, Rob Dillingham, Noa Essengue, and more. That gives Bulls fans real reasons to be excited — but also real reasons to be cautious.Haize discusses why the play-in itself is not the problem. The real question is HOW the Bulls get there. If Caleb, Matas, Giddey, Dailyn, and the young core are driving winning basketball, that's progress. But if veteran production carries the Bulls while the young players remain supporting characters, Chicago could be walking into the same old middle-of-the-pack trap.Plus, Haize reacts to Caleb Wilson's first Bulls practice, the rookie shaking off early jitters, earning praise from Tiago Splitter, and making it clear that his Summer League goal is simple: win. Splitter praised Wilson's hunger, work ethic, size, athletic ability, and upside while also stressing patience with the No. 4 pick.

The Chicago Bulls' 2026-27 season is almost here — and now it's time for the REAL expectations conversation

The Chicago Bulls may not have the biggest pile of future draft picks in the Eastern Conference… but are they one of the best-positioned teams if the young core hits?

The Chicago Bulls may have just created the cleanest evaluation season Josh Giddey has ever had in Chicago

The Chicago Bulls have added Caleb Wilson, Dailyn Swain, and Nic Claxton, but the roster still has work to do. On today's episode of Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down the Bulls' biggest remaining free agency needs and the names that could make the most sense for Bryson Graham's next moves.

The Chicago Bulls are officially entering the next phase of their rebuild, and free agency rumors are already heating up!

The Chicago Bulls still have two clear roster needs: shooting and size. On today's episode of Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down the best free agent and trade targets for the Bulls as Bryson Graham continues reshaping the roster.

Caleb Wilson made it clear: he wants to win Rookie of the Year for the Chicago Bulls. But does he actually have a real path to beat AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, and Cam Boozer?On today's episode of Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down Wilson's strongest Rookie of the Year case, why his two-way production could matter more than raw scoring, and how playing next to Josh Giddey, Nic Claxton, Matas Buzelis, and Dailyn Swain could unlock him early.Haize also dives into one of the Bulls' most underrated offseason tools: the Bird rights for Anfernee Simons and Collin Sexton. Could Chicago use sign-and-trade possibilities to turn both guards into future draft capital, young players, or rotation depth instead of losing them for nothing?Plus, the voicemail line is back as Bulls fans react to Caleb Wilson, Dailyn Swain, Patrick Williams, spacing concerns, possible free agent targets, and what Chicago still needs this offseason.Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/BullsCentralPodGet at us:Email: BullsCentralPod@gmail.comTwitter:@BullsCentralPodPhone: ‪(773) 270-2799‬Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Chicago Bulls still have major offseason flexibility, and Haize breaks down how the team can use its remaining cap space to improve the roster, absorb contracts, and potentially add draft capital. After the Nic Claxton trade, Chicago may still have roughly $30 million in cap room, giving the Bulls a chance to become a trade-absorption team instead of relying only on free agency.On today's episode of Chicago Bulls Central, Haize looks at realistic Bulls trade targets who could help on the floor, including Lu Dort, Isaiah Joe, Wendell Carter Jr., Jarrett Allen, Jonathan Isaac, Isaiah Hartenstein, Jalen Suggs, Dejounte Murray, and Cam Johnson. The Bulls need shooting, defense, physicality, and roster balance around Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, Dailyn Swain, and Nic Claxton.Haize also breaks down contract-dump targets Chicago could take on for draft compensation, including DeMar DeRozan and Jakob Poeltl, and why the Bulls should ask one key question in those talks: what draft capital is attached?The episode also dives into the Bulls' rotation crunch heading into the 2026-27 season. With Caleb Wilson and Dailyn Swain joining the roster, players like Leonard Miller, Patrick Williams, Noa Essengue, Rob Dillingham, Tre Jones, Kam Jones, Jalen Smith, and Isaac Okoro could all face real pressure for consistent minutes.Plus, Haize reacts to Bryson Graham defending the Bulls' second-round draft trades, including the Braden Smith move to Indiana for Kam Jones, cash considerations, and future draft value. Was Chicago smart to preserve roster flexibility, or did the Bulls sell a pick too cheaply?

The 2026 NBA Draft is complete for the Chicago Bulls, and Haize breaks down why this draft may have finally given Chicago a clear direction. After selecting Caleb Wilson at No. 4 and Dailyn Swain at No. 15, the Bulls are no longer looking like a quick veteran patch-job team. This now feels like a long, athletic, defense-first development build centered around size, versatility, and future flexibility.On today's episode of Chicago Bulls Central, Haize reacts to what the Wilson and Swain pairing brings to the Bulls, how it fits Bryson Graham's reported “SLAP” profile of size, length, athleticism, and physicality, and why Chicago's roster now has a clearer shape around Josh Giddey, Rob Dillingham, Matas Buzelis, Noa Essengue, Caleb Wilson, Dailyn Swain, Nic Claxton, Kam Jones, and more.Haize also breaks down the Bulls' second-round moves, including the Braden Smith trade to Indiana for Kam Jones, future pick-swap value and cash, plus the No. 56 pick being moved to the Lakers for cash. Did the Bulls make the right call by avoiding four rookies, or did they miss a chance to add cheap shooting and center depth?The episode also covers Chicago's two-way signings of Tobe Awaka and Jaylin Sellers, what each player brings to the Bulls' developmental system, and the biggest roster needs still remaining after the draft.Plus, Haize looks at the best veteran free agent fits for the Bulls, including Luke Kennard, Quentin Grimes, De'Anthony Melton, Keon Ellis, Robert Williams III, Precious Achiuwa, Landry Shamet, and Bruce Brown.

The Chicago Bulls are adding more scoring upside after the NBA Draft, signing Providence guard Jaylin Sellers to a two-way deal. On today's episode of Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down what Sellers brings to Chicago, why his shooting and shot creation could matter, and how this move fits into the Bulls' bigger roster direction after drafting Caleb Wilson and Dailyn Swain.Sellers was one of the most productive scorers in the Big East, giving Chicago another guard/wing option with size, shooting touch, and offensive confidence. But is this just a Windy City Bulls development move, or could Sellers push for real minutes if the Bulls' roster stays in transition?The Chicago Bulls are adding more size, toughness, and rebounding to the organization as Arizona forward Tobe Awaka has reportedly signed a two-way deal with Chicago, per 247Sports. On today's episode of Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down what Awaka brings to the Bulls, why his physical profile matters, and how this signing fits into Chicago's new direction after the NBA Draft.Awaka gives the Bulls a hard-nosed frontcourt piece who can rebound, finish inside, bring energy, and compete defensively. After averaging over nine rebounds per game at Arizona, he enters Chicago's system as a two-way developmental player with a chance to carve out a role if his motor, strength, and defensive impact translate.Haize also reacts to what this signing says about the Bulls' front office, the team's need for shooting, two-way roster flexibility, and whether Chicago is finally targeting players who fit the modern NBA.Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/BullsCentralPodGet at us:Email: BullsCentralPod@gmail.comTwitter:@BullsCentralPodPhone: ‪(773) 270-2799‬Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy