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Bulls Winning by Mastering Margins
CHICAGO – At
26-11, the Bulls have emerged as one of the league’s best teams, currently
holding the fourth best record overall. While some contenders rely on superstar
firepower or are built around 3-4 future hall of famers, Chicago has
methodically built a winner by making shrewd, low risk moves that maximize
value at the margins. With All-Stars LaMelo Ball and Pascal Siakam leading the
way, the Bulls have combined star power with depth and defensive versatility to
become a legitimate force in the NSL.
Prioritizing Defense on the
Perimeter
One of the first significant trades under
this philosophy sent Cam Thomas and Tre Jones to Chicago in exchange for Jalen
Suggs and Haywood Highsmith. Suggs has quickly become a defensive anchor, while
Highsmith, a low-key acquisition, has proven to be a key contributor on that
end of the floor. Together, they’ve reshaped the Bulls' identity.
"We knew we had to build a defensive
mindset, and getting Suggs and Highsmith was a huge step in that
direction," said Bulls' GM Jonathan. "They bring toughness,
versatility, and the ability to impact winning without needing the ball."
Siakam the Headliner,
Bitadze the Sleeper
Chicago made waves by trading Mikal Bridges,
Brook Lopez, Jett Howard, a 2026 first-round pick (top five protected), and a
2029 second rounder for Pascal Siakam and Goga Bitadze. With Siakam’s All-Star
pedigree, the Bulls secured a dynamic two-way forward, while Bitadze has
emerged as a defensive force behind Nic Claxton.
"Siakam was obviously the centerpiece,
but we pushed hard for Goga to be included," Jonathan noted. "We
believed in his potential as a defensive anchor, and he’s proving us
right."
Ty Jerome Proving His Worth
A trade that sent Chris Livingston to Chicago
in exchange for Ty Jerome has quietly paid off. In 17 starts, Jerome is
averaging 14.1 PPG, 4.6 APG, and 3.4 RPG while maintaining impressive
efficiency (49% from the field and a 4:1 assist to turnover ratio). His steady
growth highlights the team’s ability to find value in overlooked players.
Flipping Assets for
Long-Term Gains
The Bulls acquired Wendell Moore Jr. for a
minor asset before flipping him for Hunter Tyson and a second round pick. It’s
a textbook example of the front office’s strategy—turning small investments
into future returns.
Betting on Justin Edwards
Chicago recently traded two-way player
Tristan Vukcevic and 10 GM points for a future second-round pick and rookie
two-way player Justin Edwards. Edwards, a dynamic wing with strong defensive
instincts and a developing offensive game, has shown rapid improvement in
recent weeks. His athleticism and defensive versatility make him an intriguing
long-term piece for the Bulls' rotation.
"Justin is the kind of player who fits
exactly what we're building," Jonathan said. "His defensive upside is
exciting, and his work ethic has really stood out. We think he can develop into
a key piece for us moving forward."
Building for the Future
The Bulls’ front office isn’t making headlines with splashy moves, but their meticulous approach is laying the groundwork for sustained success. With LaMelo Ball and Pascal Siakam at the helm, complemented by a deep and disciplined supporting cast, Chicago is proving that star power and smart roster construction can go hand in hand. The Bulls aren’t just a playoff team, they’re a contender built for the long haul.
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