The Chicago Bulls Offseason Preview have seen their season come to an end — but the real work is just beginning. With one of the more intriguing offseasons ahead, there’s plenty to keep an eye on as they try to build a competitive team around their young core.
From potential trades and draft picks to roster decisions and player development, here are five key storylines shaping up this summer.
Can the Bulls Learn From the Indiana Pacers’ Blueprint?
One of the biggest talking points this year has been how well the Indiana Pacers have built their roster. As division rivals, watching them reach the brink of the NBA Finals has to sting a little — but also offer a blueprint.
The Pacers have built a deep, flexible roster with a clear identity. They added Tyrese Haliburton in a bold trade, drafted smartly, and even brought in Pascal Siakam to push them over the edge.
While the Bulls aren’t quite there yet, they’ve taken similar steps — acquiring Josh Giddey, trading for experience via Zach LaVine, and focusing on spacing and pace. Whether or not they can fully replicate that model remains to be seen, but the foundation is starting to take shape.
Is a Fake Trade Scenario Worth Considering?
With the draft season heating up, so too has the speculation around possible blockbuster deals.
Bleacher Report recently floated a mock trade involving the Boston Celtics and Kristaps Porzingis:
Bulls receive: Kristaps Porzingis + 2025 No. 28 pick, No. 32 pick, and a 2028 first-round pick (protected 2–14)
Celtics receive: Nikola Vučević, Dalen Terry, and the Bulls’ No. 12 pick in 2025
It’s an interesting idea, especially since Vučević could make sense for a Celtics team looking for a short-term upgrade. But does Porzingis really move the needle enough for the Bulls? And at what cost?
Porzingis is injury-prone, and the return the Bulls would give up includes a top-12 pick — something they don’t get often. If they’re not close to contention, this might not be worth the gamble.
Could Collin Murray-Boyles Be a Fit?
South Carolina forward Collin Murray-Boyles has shown up in recent mock drafts, including one from Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman. He’s been compared to Julius Randle — which, while not perfect, is a compliment in some circles.
Murray-Boyles brings size, strength, and defensive versatility — things the Bulls currently lack on the wing. His offensive game still needs polish, especially his jump shot, but he averaged over 16 points per game in college thanks to his physicality and transition play.
In a backcourt featuring Coby White and Josh Giddey — both solid but not elite defenders — Murray-Boyles could help shore up the defense and bring much-needed toughness.
Free Agency Decisions: Will Giddey Stay?
Josh Giddey had a breakout second half and is now set to cash in this summer. As a restricted free agent, the Bulls have the right to match any offer, and according to insider Jake Fischer, most league executives expect him to stay.
He’s only 22, and after averaging 20+ PPG down the stretch, he looks like a foundational piece. Expect a multi-year deal north of $30 million annually if he hits the open market.
Draft Strategy and Development Focus
The Bulls own the No. 12 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft , along with several other assets. With a young roster still in flux, drafting wisely will be critical.
They’ll also need to focus on developing players like Murray-Boyles (if selected), Matas Buzelis, and others already on the roster. Adding depth and finding role players who fit the system will be essential to building sustainable success.