It's no secret that the Chicago Bulls are in a rebuilding phase, having made the postseason just once in the past eight years.
Chicago has several young pieces, including Matas Buzelis, Isaac Okoro and Josh Giddey, who is currently a restricted free agent. However, the Bulls could look to further strengthen their roster with a promising young forward in Jabari Smith Jr., especially given Patrick Williams’ underwhelming development over his first five seasons in the league.
Brandon Austin of Pro Football & Sports Network tagged Smith as a potential trade candidate this season, naming Chicago as a possible landing spot.
“Even though Houston has committed to Smith in the long term, questions persist about his ceiling,” he wrote. “... The arrival of Kevin Durant highlights Houston's win-now mindset, which may spark trade speculation if Smith doesn't elevate his play in his fourth NBA season.”
MORE: Bulls advised against caving to Josh Giddey's demands in restricted free agency
Despite their current push to contend now, the Rockets also have plenty of young options in Alperen Sengun, Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard — players they may ultimately prioritize over Smith.
While Smith is still currently part of Houston's long-term plans, a strong enough offer could change that. The Rockets are unlikely to make any major moves unless they stumble early in the season following the Durant acquisition.
Smith would also be able to carve out a more significant role in Chicago after finishing the 2024-25 campaign in a bench role with Houston. His offensive inconsistencies have raised questions, and Chicago may be a team to watch if Smith ends up on the trade block.
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