Yuki Kawamura's path to playing time after signing with Bulls

Mack Baltes

Yuki Kawamura's path to playing time after signing with Bulls image

The Chicago Bulls made a roster move Tuesday, bringing back fan favorite Yuki Kawamura on a two-way deal.

After an impressive run in the 2025 NBA Summer League with Chicago, it seemed certain that Kawamura would compete for minutes deep into the rotation. In five Summer League games, Kawamura averaged 10.2 points, 6.2 assists, 2.4 rebounds and 2.2 steals while showcasing impressive vision in 23.9 minutes per game.

That said, it never worked out that way, as Chicago's roster was stacked with guards like Josh Giddey, Coby White, Kevin Huerter, Tre Jones and Jevon Carter.

As a result, the Bulls waived Kawamura prior to the season.

However, they've brought him back now, waiving Trentyn Flowers to complete the move.

This will give Kawamura his first opportunity of the season to earn NBA minutes. Last year with the Memphis Grizzlies, Kawamura only appeared in 22 games, averaging 4.2 minutes per contest. In limited action he averaged 1.6 points and 0.9 assists. In the G-League for Memphis, Kawamura averaged a double-double with 13.7 points and 10.7 assists per game.

Although, he could earn an opportunity sooner rather than later as Giddey remains sidelined with a hamstring injury. Additionally, White has been listed as questionable for Chicago's next matchup against Detroit.

Kawamura will have his first chance to suit up against the Pistons Wednesday and again Thursday versus the Miami Heat on the second night of a back-to-back.

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Staff Writer