The Bulls are weighing frontcourt changes as coach Tiago Splitter considers pairing Nic Claxton with Jalen Smith, a move that could push Matas Buzelis out of the starting lineup. At the same time, a reported first-round-pick valuation and interest from Golden State could make Smith a trade candidate. Derrick Rose has urged patience, but Chicago’s 1-7 start is testing fans’ confidence in the rebuild.

By the Numbers
  • Chicago’s record: 1-7.
  • Derrick Rose’s suggested evaluation point: 25 games.
Yes, But

A new big-man pairing could help the Bulls’ defense, but benching Buzelis may affect his development. Trading Smith for a first-round pick could add future value, though Chicago would give up a player who may be useful to its young core.

State of Play
  • Splitter is reportedly considering a Claxton-Smith pairing; a starting-lineup change remains a possibility, not a confirmed move.
  • Golden State has reportedly contacted Chicago about Smith, while the first-round-pick estimate comes from an unnamed executive.
  • Rose advises waiting until after 25 games to judge the team.
What's Next

The Bulls could test the new frontcourt combination and assess Smith’s trade market as the season develops. Their early performance will shape whether patience—or more immediate roster changes—makes sense.

Bottom Line

Chicago faces a balancing act: improve the team now without sacrificing young-player development or selling a useful piece too cheaply.