The Chicago Bulls are expected to start the 2025-26 NBA season with center Nikola Vučević still on their roster, as reported by Chicago Sports Network‘s K.C. Johnson. However, trade rumors are already circulating, indicating the Bulls may look to secure a long-term replacement. One notable possibility for the Bulls is acquiring Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen, sparking significant speculation about a potential deal between these division rivals.
The Bulls’ interest in Jarrett Allen suggests a strategic move toward reshaping their frontcourt, potentially signaling an eventual trade involving Vučević. Meanwhile, the Cavaliers appear to be interested in adding young talent like Matas Buzelis and Ayo Dosunmu to complement their lineup.
Details of a Possible Trade Between Bulls and Cavaliers
A proposed trade scenario involves the Cavaliers receiving small forward Ayo Dosunmu and power forward Matas Buzelis from the Bulls, in exchange for center Jarrett Allen. This deal reflects a broader roster reshaping strategy for Cleveland, which may prioritize Evan Mobley as their full-time center.
Sports analyst Grant Hughes from Bleacher Report suggested after the Cavaliers’ early playoff exit that Cleveland might prefer to refocus its roster with Mobley anchoring the center position. Hughes stated,
“Another postseason disappointment, this one coming in the wake of a 64-win regular season, could spur the Cavaliers to reorient the roster around Evan Mobley as the full-time center,”
and added,
“That’d mean moving on from Allen, replacing him with a capable frontcourt shooter and scorer in Johnson.”
—Grant Hughes, Sports Analyst
If Cleveland transitions Allen out, acquiring Dosunmu and Buzelis would provide valuable depth and versatility, helping the team maintain a strong frontcourt without constraining Mobley’s role. Both forwards offer youth and potential, aligning with Cleveland’s future plans.
Player Profiles and What They Bring to Each Team
For the Bulls, Jarrett Allen would represent a significant upgrade at the center position. At 27 years old, Allen consistently delivers near double-double averages; in the 2024-25 season, he posted 13.5 points and 9.7 rebounds per game. He also led the NBA in shooting percentage, registering a remarkable 70.6% over 82 games. Two seasons ago, Allen reached career highs of 16.5 points and 10.5 rebounds per game.
While Allen’s immediate impact in Chicago might be tempered by Vučević’s presence, his arrival would likely foreshadow a future trade involving Vučević, allowing Allen to eventually assume a leading role similar to what he has with Cleveland.
The Cavaliers would gain Ayo Dosunmu, a 2021-22 All-Rookie team member who averaged 12.3 points, 4.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds last season in 46 games. Alongside Dosunmu, Matas Buzelis offers promising offensive skills for a rookie, averaging 8.6 points on 45.4% shooting, including 36.1% from three-point range, during the 2024-25 campaign.
Implications for NBA Rosters and Future Outlook
This rumored trade reflects both teams’ efforts to address their evolving roster needs. The Bulls seek to secure a dynamic, efficient center in Jarrett Allen who can provide immediate production and future stability. At the same time, the Cavaliers appear focused on building around Evan Mobley and adding young talent like Buzelis and Dosunmu to enhance their scoring versatility and depth.
For fantasy managers tracking player movements, this potential deal is notable given how Jarrett Allen’s move could impact playing time and statistical output, especially if Vučević is ultimately traded by Chicago.
As the NBA offseason continues, fans and analysts will watch closely to see if this trade or other roster changes develop, potentially reshaping the balance of power in the Central Division heading into the 2025-26 season.