2025 NBA Offseason Summary
The 2025 NBA offseason has concluded, marking a transition to a focus on the upcoming season. While a few notable veteran free agents still linger and the prolonged situation with restricted free agent Josh Giddey continues, the league is now looking ahead to the 2025-26 season.
Chicago Bulls’ Preparations
With training camp starting in less than a month, the Chicago Bulls are gearing up for the new season. Their roster is nearly complete, and the addition of Giddey would finalize their lineup.
Roster Improvements Needed
The Bulls are aware of the improvements needed for their roster and are taking steps to address it. This offseason, they focused on acquiring versatile defenders, including trading Lonzo Ball for Isaac Okoro and selecting the promising Noa Essengue in the first round of the NBA Draft.
Interior Defense Concerns
However, the team still faces significant issues regarding interior defense. While backup player Zach Collins made a favorable impression, the Bulls are otherwise lacking in strong interior defenders, aside from Collins and Matas Buzelis’ shot-blocking abilities.
Defensive Metrics
Last season, Chicago allowed the highest average points in the paint, at 54.0 per game. Despite ranking 18th in blocked shots, it’s clear that the Bulls need a genuine rim protector to strengthen their defense.
Future Trade Prospects
Currently, the Bulls have limited options for acquiring interior defensive help unless a trade occurs. However, given their existing roster with players like Collins, Nikola Vucevic, and Jalen Smith, any trade seems unlikely, especially since attempts to offload Vucevic have been unsuccessful.
Looking Ahead to 2026 Free Agency
Attention now turns to the next offseason, which presents a financial opportunity for the Bulls since they will only have seven players, excluding Giddey, under contract for the 2026-27 season. Chicago’s financial flexibility positions them well for potential signings, although the upcoming free-agent class is not as promising as it may seem.
Mitchell Robinson: A Key Free Agent Target
One intriguing option for the Bulls in 2026 could be Mitchell Robinson, the New York Knicks’ center. Robinson, entering the last year of his contract, may not be extended due to concerns over his injury history. If the Knicks cannot keep him, he could be a valuable addition for Chicago, representing both risk and potential reward at a reasonable price.
