The Chicago Bulls’ backcourt duo, Lonzo Ball and Coby White, are already drawing considerable attention in the NBA trade market as teams explore possible moves during this offseason. Reports indicate multiple inquiries about Ball, highlighting active trade interest surrounding both players.
Although Ball was limited to just 35 games last season after missing the prior two years with knee injuries, the Bulls remain uncertain about whether to trade him at this stage.
Lonzo Ball’s Journey and Current Status with the Bulls
Lonzo Ball, now 27, entered the NBA as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2017 draft by the Los Angeles Lakers. After two seasons, he was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans. In 2021, Ball signed a four-year contract worth $80 million with the Chicago Bulls.
His debut season in Chicago was among the best of his career, averaging 13 points, 5.4 rebounds, 5.1 assists, and 1.8 steals per game over 35 contests, while shooting 42.3 percent from the field and an impressive 42.3 percent from three-point range.
Following his return from injuries last season, Ball’s production dipped, with averages of 7.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game in 22.2 minutes. Still, Chicago found his performance encouraging enough to offer a two-year, $20 million extension in February, which includes a club option for the 2026-27 season.
Coby White’s Rise and Contract Considerations
Selected seventh overall in 2019, Coby White experienced ups and downs before emerging strongly in recent seasons. His 2023-24 campaign marked new career highs with 19.1 points, 5.1 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game, including 2.6 three-pointers made.
Last year, White led the Bulls in scoring among players with at least 43 games, hitting 20.4 points per outing along with 4.5 assists and 3.7 rebounds.
Currently on a three-year, $36 million contract, White’s deal is considered a bargain relative to his recent performances. With the final year of his contract set for 2025-26, the Bulls face a pivotal decision on whether to offer him a hefty extension or trade him while his value remains high.
At just 25, White represents one of Chicago’s most valuable trade assets, which explains the ongoing interest and his possible role in reshaping the roster.
Implications for the Bulls’ Future Plans
The Bulls have not qualified for the playoffs in three consecutive seasons, finishing with identical 39-43 records over the last two years. This stagnant performance has pushed the franchise to reevaluate its roster during the offseason.
Trading White could potentially set the team back in the short term, but it might also bring in important future assets to strengthen the Bulls’ competitiveness. Similarly, deciding Lonzo Ball’s future will greatly influence Chicago’s backcourt dynamics going forward.