The Bulls have held internal discussions about pursuing Dallas Mavericks big man Anthony Davis, according to ESPN’s Jamal Collier, although the team insists it won’t sacrifice its young core to achieve that goal.
Chicago believes the eight-time All-Star can immediately address their biggest weakness.
Sources told ESPN, “The Bulls have had internal discussions about how to proceed, including conversations about Dallas Mavericks star Anthony Davis, who they believe can help the team improve their rim protection and defense in the paint,” Collier said.
In addition to his on-court fit, Davis’ Chicago roots add another layer to the conversation.
The Bulls already have three hometown players on their roster, Ayo Dosunmu, Jevon Carter and rookie Matas Buzelis, something Collier noted is no accident.
“I don’t think going out and chasing X-star is the right move, at least today,” a source told ESPN.
The Bulls’ long-term positioning helps explain this approach. Chicago has its own first-round picks for the next seven years, as well as an additional 2026 first-round pick from Portland.
ESPN’s Bobby Marks projects the Bulls could have close to $70 million in cap space next offseason. With that kind of financial flexibility, Chicago can trade up to five first-rounders and five second-rounders, making them one of the most asset-rich teams in the NBA.
But for now, the Bulls seem unwilling to sacrifice the foundation they’ve started to build. Collier reported that Chicago views Josh Guidy, Coby White and Buzelis as the core of their future. The team also includes 19-year-old Noa Essengue, the No. 12 pick in the 2025 draft, who insiders say is a firm part of the long-term plan.
While the interest in Davis is real, the Bulls know they’re not at the full-strength stage just yet. Instead, they are preparing for the moment.
For now, Chicago is monitoring, evaluating and preparing, but there is no rush.
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