Jan 31, 2025 - Sports

Chicago Bulls trade rumors: Who's on the move before the NBA deadline?

Justin Kaufmann

Photo of two men at a podium in front of microphones talking to media — Executive vice president of basketball operations Artūras Karnišovas and head coach Billy Donovan answer questions during the 2023 Media Day. Photo: Michael Reaves/Getty Images

The NBA's trade deadline is approaching and analysts believe the Bulls will be big sellers. But recent history says that might not be true.

The big picture: The Bulls are languishing toward the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings yet again this season after trading star DeMar DeRozan and Alex Caruso in the offseason.

State of play: The Bulls have a core of high-paid players that could contribute to playoff-bound teams and kickstart a much-needed and much-dreaded rebuild.

Yes, but: Executive vice president of basketball operations Artūras Karnišovas has been reluctant to trade at the deadline in years past, perplexing fans and NBA analysts alike.

Here's who could be gone by Friday:

Zach LaVine (update: traded to the Kings)

Photo of a basketball player jumping into the air during a game — Zach LaVine drives to the basket during the game on Jan. 20 against the Clippers in Los Angeles. Photo: Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images

LaVine is paid like a superstar and some argue that he is playing like one this year, although he was snubbed for an All-Star bid.

He has been rumored to be on the trade block for several seasons now, but he makes $43 million (a year!) and teams are reportedly not interested in paying that.

Possible destinations: LaVine has been tied to the Jimmy Butler saga in Miami and could be part of a multi-team deal that facilitates Butler leaving South Beach. We've heard Milwaukee, Phoenix, LA (Lakers) and the Heat.

Nikola Vučević

Photo of a man playing basketball on a court — Nikola Vučević in a game against the Philadelphia 76ers on Jan. 25. Photo: Michael Reaves/Getty Images

The big man came over in a deal with the Orlando Magic in 2021 and hasn't lived up to expectations. He's playing well but lacks the defensive awareness and the athleticism to match Giannis Antetokounmpo and the rest of the bigs in the East.

Possible destinations: He's been linked to the Golden State Warriors.

Lonzo Ball

Photo of a man pointing while in a uniform playing basketball on a court — Lonzo Ball celebrates a three-pointer against the Washington Wizards on Jan. 10. Photo: Michael Reaves/Getty Images

The point guard is semi-healthy, putting behind him the disappointment of missing multiple seasons with a knee injury, but he's still on a minutes restriction to protect his left knee.

Even if he isn't traded, there's a chance the Bulls might release him since this is the final year of his contract.

Possible destinations: Lakers and Cleveland Cavaliers

Patrick Williams

Photo of a man dribbling a basketball playing on a court — Patrick Williams drives to the basket during the game against the Boston Celtics on Jan. 29. Photo: Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images

P-Will was a top draft pick in 2020 at the age of 19. So there's potential, but it's been overshadowed by inconsistent play. It may be time to move on from the player, who seems overmatched.

Possible destinations: Anywhere but Chicago.

Ayo Dosunmu

Photo of a man dribbling a basketball — Ayo Dosunmu dribbles the ball up court against the Golden State Warriors on Jan. 23. Photo: Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images

The Morgan Park alum has been a fan favorite for being the ultimate utility player. But that also makes him a trade target. He still has a year left (after this season) and is only getting paid $7.5 million, so he is attractive to playoff contenders for a short-term rental.

Possible destinations: Whoever will give up a first-rounder. Otherwise, keep the hometown product in his hometown.

What's next: The NBA trade deadline is Feb. 6.

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