Is Josh Giddey really part of Bryson Graham’s long-term vision for the Chicago Bulls — or could he eventually become a bridge to whatever comes next?

On today’s Chicago Bulls Central, Haize reacts to ESPN questioning whether Giddey truly fits the future Graham is building in Chicago.

Giddey is only 23 years old and averaged 17.0 points, 8.3 rebounds and 9.1 assists last season, while still having three years remaining on his four-year, $100 million contract. But there is an important distinction: Bryson Graham inherited Giddey. He did not acquire or extend him himself.

That makes 2026-27 a fascinating evaluation year.

Can Giddey run an efficient half-court offense? Can he contribute when Matas Buzelis or Caleb Wilson initiates? Can he reduce the damaging turnovers? Can he remain on the floor defensively in closing lineups? And most importantly, does his play actually make Chicago’s young forwards better?

Haize then breaks down a potential hidden identity for Tiago Splitter’s Bulls:

Rebounding.

Chicago ranked just 26th in second-chance points at 13.4 per game last season. Splitter’s Portland team was dramatically different, generating a league-high 16% of its offense from second chances while also ranking fourth in tracked offensive-rebounding percentage and third in second-chance points per 100 possessions.

With Josh Giddey, Nic Claxton, Caleb Wilson, Matas Buzelis, Jalen Smith and Tobe Awaka, Chicago has enough size, athleticism and rebounding potential to manufacture extra offense without needing an elite isolation scorer.

Finally, ESPN identified Nic Claxton as Chicago’s biggest X-factor — and there’s a legitimate red flag.

Claxton averaged 2.5 blocks per game in 2022-23, but that number has declined in every season since, falling to just 1.1 last year, while opponents shot 60% at the basket against him.

That matters because Chicago needs Claxton to clean up defensive mistakes behind Giddey, Norman Powell, Matas and Caleb. The Bulls don’t necessarily need Claxton to return to a 2.5-block-per-game monster, but they do need competent rim protection, defensive communication, rebounding and the switchability that has traditionally made him valuable.

🔥 Topics include: Josh Giddey’s long-term Bulls fit, whether Giddey is a cornerstone or bridge asset, Bryson Graham’s vision, Matas and Caleb getting more creation opportunities, Chicago’s turnover concerns, Tiago Splitter building a rebounding identity, second-chance scoring, Claxton as a defensive anchor, Tobe Awaka’s rebounding potential, Claxton’s declining block numbers, and whether center could quickly become Chicago’s biggest future need.

🎧 Tap in with Haize on Chicago Bulls Central for the full breakdown!

Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/BullsCentralPod

Get at us:

Email: BullsCentralPod@gmail.com

Twitter:@BullsCentralPod

Phone: ‪(773) 270-2799‬

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Could the New York Knicks actually PAY the Chicago Bulls to take another young player off their hands?

On today’s Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down a proposed trade opportunity involving Tyler Kolek and Pacôme Dadiet as New York operates close to the second apron and potentially looks to open another roster spot.

Important distinction: this is a trade concept from Knicks On SI — not a report that Chicago and New York are actively negotiating.

But the idea is fascinating.

Chicago still has an open roster spot, financial flexibility, and a direct developmental connection to both players through new director of player development Jordan Brink, who previously worked with Kolek and Dadiet in New York.

Kolek may be the more immediately useful target. He gives Chicago another pass-first organizer, insurance behind Josh Giddey and Tre Jones, and a potentially intriguing contrast to the scoring-oriented Rob Dillingham.

Dadiet is the bigger developmental gamble. He remains only 21 and has intriguing size at 6-foot-9, but Chicago already has a crowded developmental wing group featuring Dailyn Swain, Noa Essengue, Leonard Miller, Patrick Williams, Caleb Wilson and Matas Buzelis.

If the Knicks want Chicago to take Dadiet, should New York have to attach draft compensation?

Then Haize breaks down why the Bulls’ backup-center competition shouldn’t simply be framed as Jalen Smith vs Zach Collins.

Smith brings pick-and-pop shooting, pace and offensive rebounding. Collins brings strength, screening, post play and connective passing. Behind starter Nic Claxton, those two could provide Tiago Splitter with dramatically different options depending on the matchup.

And yes — they can absolutely push one another for minutes.

Finally, the Bulls want to play FAST next season.

But could turnovers become the fatal flaw in Tiago Splitter’s system?

Splitter’s Portland team reached the playoffs, but also committed a league-high 17.3 turnovers per game. Chicago already finished among the NBA’s more turnover-prone teams, and a young roster built around Josh Giddey, Caleb Wilson, Matas Buzelis, Dailyn Swain and Rob Dillingham could make that problem even more dangerous.

Haize explains why Chicago shouldn’t eliminate creativity — but must distinguish between aggressive mistakes and careless live-ball turnovers that immediately fuel the opponent’s transition offense.

🔥 Topics include:

• Tyler Kolek to Chicago?
• Pacôme Dadiet as an upside gamble
• Why New York could want roster flexibility
• Jordan Brink’s connection to both prospects
• What acquiring Kolek would mean for Rob Dillingham
• Whether Chicago should demand compensation for Dadiet
• Jalen Smith vs Zach Collins
• Why Smith and Collins offer completely different styles
• Smith’s pick-and-pop fit with Josh Giddey
• Collins as a physical passing hub
• Tobe Awaka applying pressure behind them
• Tiago Splitter’s turnover problem in Portland
• Josh Giddey’s high-risk/high-reward passing
• Why pace can hurt Chicago if possessions end in turnovers
• How the Bulls can play fast without playing reckless

🎧 Tap in with Haize on Chicago Bulls Central for the full breakdown!

Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/BullsCentralPod

Get at us:

Email: BullsCentralPod@gmail.com

Twitter:@BullsCentralPod

Phone: ‪(773) 270-2799‬

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Are Chicago Bulls fans giving up on Dailyn Swain way too early after one brutal Summer League?

On today’s Chicago Bulls Central, Haize takes a deeper look at Swain’s actual college profile and the historical NBA wings who entered the league with similar combinations of size, rebounding, secondary creation, defense and uncertain three-point shooting.

Swain’s final Texas season was anything but unproductive. At 6-foot-7 and roughly 211 pounds, he averaged 17.3 points, 7.5 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.6 steals while shooting 54.2% from the field, 34.4% from three and 81.5% from the free-throw line. He also shot 60.3% on twos and posted a .636 true-shooting percentage.

Yes, his Summer League was ugly: 4.2 points per game on 12.9% shooting and 0% from three across four games. But four bad July games shouldn’t erase nearly 100 college games of development.

Haize compares Swain’s profile with players such as Jaime Jaquez Jr., Josh Hart, Jae Crowder, Kyle Kuzma, Otto Porter Jr., Jimmy Butler, Gordon Hayward, Jarrett Culver and former Bull Chandler Hutchison to show why the range of outcomes remains enormous.

The point isn’t that Swain will become Jimmy Butler.

The point is that large, versatile wings often take time — and Swain’s 81.5% free-throw shooting, efficiency inside the arc, passing and defensive production give Chicago a much healthier developmental foundation than his Summer League performance suggests.

Then Haize shifts to Josh Giddey’s comments about Norman Powell, after Giddey said Powell’s gravity will take attention away from him.

Could Powell become more valuable to Chicago because of what he creates for everybody else?

With Powell flying around screens and forcing defenders to chase, Giddey could attack vacated space, Matas Buzelis and Caleb Wilson could become dangerous cutters, Nic Claxton could thrive in dribble-handoff actions and Dailyn Swain could eventually benefit as a second-unit cutter.

Finally, Haize explores the most overlooked part of Nic Claxton’s game: his passing.

Claxton averaged a career-high 3.7 assists against just 1.4 turnovers, opening the possibility that Tiago Splitter could use him as an elbow facilitator, short-roll playmaker and dribble-handoff hub — borrowing concepts from the role Joakim Noah once played in Chicago without expecting Claxton to become Noah himself.

🔥 Topics include: Dailyn Swain NBA comparisons, Jaime Jaquez Jr. vs. Jarrett Culver as Swain’s developmental fork, why Chandler Hutchison is a warning, what Jimmy Butler and Jae Crowder teach us about wing development, Norman Powell’s shooting gravity, Josh Giddey’s offensive evolution, Matas and Caleb as cutters, Nic Claxton’s passing leap, Claxton as a short-roll creator, and whether Chicago can manufacture offense through movement instead of superstar isolation.

🎧 Tap in with Haize on Chicago Bulls Central for the full breakdown!

Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/BullsCentralPod

Get at us:

Email: BullsCentralPod@gmail.com

Twitter:@BullsCentralPod

Phone: ‪(773) 270-2799‬

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Should Tiago Splitter unleash the Chicago Bulls’ giant “SLAP” lineup this season?

On today’s Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down one of the most intriguing lineup experiments available to the Bulls: Josh Giddey, Dailyn Swain, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson and Nic Claxton sharing the floor together.

Every player in that group is roughly 6-foot-7 or taller, creating an average height around 6-foot-9 and embodying the exact traits Bryson Graham has emphasized throughout Chicago’s reset: size, length, athleticism, physicality and versatility.

This shouldn’t necessarily become the Bulls’ regular starting lineup. But in five-to-eight-minute stretches? It could become a tactical nightmare.

Giddey can rebound and immediately ignite transition. Swain could defend the point of attack and act as a secondary creator. Matas becomes the primary scorer and weak-side shot blocker. Caleb Wilson can cut, attack mismatches and finish in transition. Claxton anchors the defense while providing rim pressure, screens and underrated passing.

The real swing factor is Dailyn Swain. If he can defend NBA shooting guards and become a credible catch-and-shoot threat, Chicago could potentially switch across four positions while keeping Claxton behind everything.

But there’s an obvious problem:

Spacing.

Giddey, Swain, Matas and Caleb all still have something to prove as NBA perimeter shooters, while Claxton provides no traditional floor spacing. Haize explains why constant movement, inverted actions, dribble handoffs and early transition offense would be necessary to keep the giant lineup from clogging the paint.

Then the show shifts to a completely different part of the rebuild that could be just as important:

🔥 The Windy City Bulls.

Chicago recently hired former Bull Quincy Pondexter as Windy City’s new head coach, and with players like Noa Essengue, Tobe Awaka, Jaylin Sellers and potentially Dailyn Swain needing developmental reps, the Bulls cannot afford to treat the G League like a separate organization.

If Chicago truly plans to build through the draft, Windy City must become an extension of Tiago Splitter’s rotation and developmental system.

Haize also gets into your Bulls voicemails, including the realistic standard for an undrafted rookie making an impact, why moving Norman Powell to the bench doesn’t make much sense, and whether Bulls ownership deserves blame for the previous regime’s roster decisions.

🔥 Topics include:

• Bulls’ giant “SLAP” lineup
• Josh Giddey + Dailyn Swain backcourt
• Matas Buzelis as the primary scorer
• Caleb Wilson attacking mismatches
• Nic Claxton’s passing and rim gravity
• Can Chicago switch four positions?
• Why Swain is the lineup’s swing player
• The massive spacing concern
• Three versions of Chicago’s giant lineup
• Why Jalen Smith could unlock the spacing version
• Quincy Pondexter taking over Windy City
• Noa Essengue’s G League development
• Jaylin Sellers’ shooting development
• Tobe Awaka’s rebounding against pro size
• Why the Bulls’ G League operation matters more than wins
• Norman Powell bench debate
• Bulls ownership vs previous front-office decisions
• Undrafted rookies making immediate NBA impact

🎧 Tap in with Haize on Chicago Bulls Central for the full breakdown!

Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/BullsCentralPod

Get at us:

Email: BullsCentralPod@gmail.com

Twitter:@BullsCentralPod

Phone: ‪(773) 270-2799‬

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Chicago Bulls probably aren’t ready to finish ahead of Detroit or Cleveland — but that doesn’t make those games meaningless. In fact, those matchups may be the best way to measure whether this rebuild is actually moving forward.

On today’s Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down why the Central Division could become Chicago’s perfect developmental measuring stick during the 2026-27 season.

The current division outlook has Detroit and Cleveland ahead of Chicago, with the Bulls more realistically battling Milwaukee and Indiana in the standings. But Detroit and Cleveland represent something different: two examples of where Chicago hopes to eventually go. Detroit has developed a young core into a legitimate contender, while Cleveland represents the path of building internally before adding established star power.

The real test won’t simply be wins and losses. Can the Bulls avoid immediately falling behind? Can Josh Giddey, Norman Powell, Matas Buzelis and Caleb Wilson execute late in games? Can Chicago’s defense force elite opponents to adjust? And can Matas and Caleb create offense against the type of physical, playoff-level defenses they’ll eventually have to beat?

Haize also lays out a practical measuring scale for Chicago’s eight combined games against Detroit and Cleveland. Going 3-5 with competitive losses would signal meaningful progress, while getting swept or repeatedly blown out would suggest Chicago remains significantly behind the division’s elite.

Then the show turns toward one of the most important long-term roster questions facing Bryson Graham:

Does Chicago’s next major investment need to be at center or shooting guard?

Nic Claxton has roughly two seasons to prove he can become the long-term defensive anchor. At the same time, Dailyn Swain and Jaylin Sellers must show whether either can develop into the long-term backcourt partner Chicago needs alongside Josh Giddey.

If Claxton improves the defense, develops chemistry with Giddey and remains playable across different matchups, shooting guard likely becomes the next priority. If Swain or Sellers emerges while Claxton disappoints, center jumps to the top of the list. And if both positions develop internally? Chicago gains the freedom to pursue the best player available or make a bigger star trade.

🔥 Topics include:

• Why Detroit is the developmental blueprint
• What Cleveland tests about Chicago’s star ceiling
• Giddey vs Cade Cunningham
• Matas and Caleb against playoff-level defense
• Nic Claxton vs Jalen Duren
• Chicago’s eight-game measuring stick against Detroit/Cleveland
• Can the Bulls finish third in the Central?
• Why the final matchups matter more than the first
• Is Claxton Chicago’s long-term center?
• Can Dailyn Swain become the Bulls’ future shooting guard?
• Jaylin Sellers’ sixth-man and starting upside
• Why Swain’s three-point shot is his biggest swing skill
• Center vs shooting guard as Chicago’s next premium investment
• How every roster decision changes what the Bulls need elsewhere
• Listener reactions on Swain, Tre Jones and Rob Dillingham

🎧 Tap in with Haize on Chicago Bulls Central for the full breakdown.

Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/BullsCentralPod

Get at us:

Email: BullsCentralPod@gmail.com

Twitter:@BullsCentralPod

Phone: ‪(773) 270-2799‬

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Could Matas Buzelis eventually command a $200 million contract from the Chicago Bulls?

On today’s Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down why Amen Thompson’s new five-year, $208 million extension could be a preview of the financial decision Chicago may eventually face with Matas Buzelis. Thompson’s deal doesn’t make him a perfect comparison, but it does show what young wings with franchise-cornerstone upside are beginning to cost.

Matas averaged 16.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.5 blocks last season while shooting 46.3% from the field and 34.9% from three. Chicago controls his fourth-year option for 2027-28, and he becomes eligible for a rookie-scale extension next summer. The 2026-27 season could determine whether those negotiations begin at “promising starter” money or genuine franchise-player money.

But before getting to Matas, Haize examines something that could make this Bulls team stylistically fascinating: the bench may have a completely different identity from the starters.

Chicago’s starting group of Josh Giddey, Norman Powell, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson and Nic Claxton can create through size, passing and matchup advantages. The second unit may need to manufacture offense through speed, pressure, deflections, multiple ball handlers and organized chaos.

A possible bench core of Tre Jones, Rob Dillingham, Dailyn Swain, Leonard Miller or Patrick Williams, and Jalen Smith could change the tempo immediately. Jones provides control, Dillingham brings instant scoring aggression, Swain connects possessions with defense and secondary creation, and Smith gives the guards the spacing they need to attack.

Haize also explains why Norman Powell staggered with the reserves could unlock the entire concept, and why a group featuring Dillingham, Powell, Swain, Matas and Jalen Smith could become legitimately dangerous if the young players shoot and defend well enough.

Finally, the Bulls have another contract decision coming. Isaac Okoro becomes extension-eligible September 17 while entering the final year of his deal at roughly $11.8 million. His defense may be more important than his box-score production because Chicago’s projected starters still lack an obvious point-of-attack stopper. But his 33% three-point shooting creates real spacing concerns next to Giddey and Claxton.

So should Bryson Graham extend Okoro, evaluate him through the first 20–25 games, or use his expiring contract as a trade asset?

🔥 Topics include:

• Bulls bench developing its own identity
• “Organized chaos” under Tiago Splitter
• Tre Jones as the bench stabilizer
• Rob Dillingham as the pace changer
• Dailyn Swain as the connector
• Jaylin Sellers as the wild card
• Jalen Smith’s fit with the young guards
• Norman Powell leading the reserves
• Amen Thompson’s $208M extension
• Could Matas become a $200M player?
• What Matas must prove before Chicago pays him
• How Caleb Wilson complicates the Matas evaluation
• Isaac Okoro becoming extension-eligible
• Okoro’s defense vs his offensive limitations
• Extend, evaluate or trade Okoro?

🎧 Tap in with Haize on Chicago Bulls Central for the full breakdown.

Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/BullsCentralPod

Get at us:

Email: BullsCentralPod@gmail.com

Twitter:@BullsCentralPod

Phone: ‪(773) 270-2799‬

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Could the Chicago Bulls become one of the NBA’s most dangerous transition teams in 2026-27?

On today’s Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down why this roster may finally be built to turn Chicago’s pace into genuinely efficient fast-break offense.

The Bulls already played extremely fast last season, finishing second in pace, but their fast-break production didn’t fully match that tempo. This new group may be much better equipped to convert speed into points. Josh Giddey can rebound and immediately push the ball, Matas Buzelis and Caleb Wilson can attack opposite lanes, Nic Claxton gives Chicago a vertical rim-running threat, and Norman Powell provides the shooting gravity that prevents defenses from simply collapsing into the paint.

But Haize explains why the real key may actually be defense. Chicago needs Claxton, Matas, Caleb, Isaac Okoro and Dailyn Swain creating deflections, contested shots, defensive rebounds and live-ball turnovers. If Tiago Splitter can combine the aggressive defense associated with his recent coaching experience with the fast-paced offense he has used before, the Bulls could become one of the league’s most uncomfortable teams to face.

Then the show turns to Chicago’s recent player-run minicamp in Miami and a bigger question:

Who is actually leading this team?

Haize lays out a layered leadership structure where Norman Powell establishes the professional standard, Josh Giddey becomes the offensive leader, Nic Claxton serves as the defensive captain, Matas Buzelis grows into the emotional leader of the young core and Caleb Wilson develops naturally into a future franchise voice.

Finally, Haize asks which Bulls reserve could force his way into Tiago Splitter’s closing lineup.

Jalen Smith may be the favorite because his shooting can create the spacing Chicago’s starting five sometimes lacks. Isaac Okoro could become the defensive matchup closer. Tre Jones offers late-game ball security. Rob Dillingham is the scoring wild card. And Dailyn Swain could eventually become the long-term two-way answer.

🔥 Topics include:

• Can Chicago become a top-five transition offense?
• Josh Giddey pushing off defensive rebounds
• Matas Buzelis and Caleb Wilson as lane runners
• Nic Claxton’s vertical gravity
• Norman Powell’s transition shooting
• Why defense must fuel Chicago’s pace
• Tiago Splitter’s potential Bulls identity
• Who is the Bulls’ real locker-room leader?
• Norman Powell vs Josh Giddey vs Matas Buzelis leadership roles
• Nic Claxton as defensive captain
• Why Caleb Wilson shouldn’t be forced into leadership too soon
• Jalen Smith potentially closing over Claxton
• Isaac Okoro as Chicago’s defensive closer
• Tre Jones’ late-game value
• Rob Dillingham as the wild card

🎧 Tap in with Haize on Chicago Bulls Central for the full breakdown!

Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/BullsCentralPod

Get at us:

Email: BullsCentralPod@gmail.com

Twitter:@BullsCentralPod

Phone: ‪(773) 270-2799‬

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Chicago Bulls finally have a legitimate defensive anchor in Nic Claxton — but their starting lineup still has one major question: who guards the Eastern Conference’s elite perimeter creators?

On today’s Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down one of the biggest concerns surrounding Chicago’s projected starting five of Josh Giddey, Norman Powell, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson and Nic Claxton. The Bulls have size, length and improved rim protection, but neither Giddey nor Powell is ideally suited to spend an entire game chasing players like Jalen Brunson, Tyrese Maxey, Donovan Mitchell, Cade Cunningham and other elite guards through screens.

Nic Claxton should dramatically improve Chicago’s backline defense, but even an elite rim protector cannot constantly clean up straight-line drives and blown screen coverage. If Chicago’s point-of-attack defense fails, Claxton will be forced into two-on-one situations that create lobs, corner threes, offensive rebounds and foul trouble.

That puts Isaac Okoro and Dailyn Swain directly into the spotlight. Okoro is Chicago’s most proven perimeter defender, while Swain could become the long-term answer because of his size, length and versatility. But both create the same problem: Can they provide enough offense to stay on the floor late in games?

Haize then dives into Chicago’s most underrated offensive issue: free-throw generation. The Bulls averaged only 22.2 attempts per game last season, leaving too much of the offense dependent on pace and jump shooting. Caleb Wilson, Matas Buzelis, Josh Giddey and Norman Powell all have pathways to create more rim pressure and help Chicago survive nights when the three-point shot isn’t falling.

Finally, could Matas Buzelis moving to small forward unlock his next leap?

Matas spent the majority of his rookie season at power forward, but Chicago’s projected lineup now places Caleb Wilson at the four and Matas at the three. That could give Buzelis a major size advantage against opposing wings, more opportunities to attack mismatches and a clearer path toward developing the point-forward skills Tiago Splitter wants to unlock.

But the move also demands more from Matas: stronger perimeter defense, better screen navigation, improved ball handling, faster passing reads and consistent shooting.

🔥 Topics include: who guards elite Eastern Conference point guards, Nic Claxton’s defensive impact, Isaac Okoro vs Dailyn Swain, Chicago’s best offensive and defensive closing lineups, why Caleb Wilson may sit in certain fourth-quarter matchups, Bulls free-throw generation, Matas’ need for more physical offense, and whether moving Buzelis to small forward could trigger an All-Star leap.

🎧 Tap in with Haize on Chicago Bulls Central for the full breakdown.

Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/BullsCentralPod

Get at us:

Email: BullsCentralPod@gmail.com

Twitter:@BullsCentralPod

Phone: ‪(773) 270-2799‬

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Chicago Bulls may not have an internal playoff mandate for 2026-27 — but does development-first basketball mean fans should lower expectations?

On today’s Chicago Bulls Central, Haize dives into some of the most underrated storylines surrounding the Bulls, starting with Jalen Smith, who could quietly become one of Chicago’s most important bench pieces. Nic Claxton is the defensive anchor, but Smith’s shooting, rebounding and offensive versatility could make him the big man who unlocks lineups around Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis and Caleb Wilson.

Then there’s Noa Essengue, Chicago’s forgotten 2025 lottery pick. After his rookie season was essentially wiped out by shoulder surgery, Essengue now returns to a completely different developmental landscape featuring Caleb Wilson, Dailyn Swain, an ascending Matas Buzelis, Leonard Miller and Patrick Williams. The question isn’t whether Noa dominates immediately — it’s whether he can reestablish himself as part of Chicago’s long-term future.

Haize also examines a brutal early schedule that could shape the tone of the entire season. Chicago opens with six of its first eight games on the road while trying to integrate a new coach, three new starters, a rookie power forward, a new defensive center and an unsettled bench-scoring hierarchy. A rough start would not automatically mean the rebuild is failing — but it could impact rotations, roster decisions and trade conversations quickly.

The episode then shifts to Matas Buzelis, whose second-year development suggests he may be much closer to legitimate two-way stardom than skeptics realize. Matas averaged 16.3 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.5 blocks last season and became the youngest player in NBA history to combine at least 100 blocks and 150 made threes in a season. His defensive matchup difficulty and isolation-defense numbers also improved dramatically.

Finally, Haize reacts to ESPN reporting that there is no internal pressure on the Bulls to reach the play-in or playoffs. Bryson Graham’s stated focus is internal growth, while Caleb Wilson has already made his own mentality clear: “I do expect to win.” Those ideas do not have to conflict — but they create the biggest philosophical question of the season: Can Chicago prioritize development without allowing patience to become lowered standards?

🔥 Topics include: Jalen Smith’s hidden importance, Noa Essengue’s “real rookie season,” Chicago’s brutal opening schedule, Isaac Okoro’s contract-year pressure, Tiago Splitter balancing development and accountability, Norman Powell’s trade-deadline future, Tre Jones’ impact on the bench, Matas Buzelis’ path to stardom, and what “no playoff pressure” should actually mean for the Bulls.

🎧 Tap in with Haize on Chicago Bulls Central for the full breakdown.

Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/BullsCentralPod

Get at us:

Email: BullsCentralPod@gmail.com

Twitter:@BullsCentralPod

Phone: ‪(773) 270-2799‬

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jonathan Kuminga chose Minnesota over the Chicago Bulls — so is Bryson Graham finally done making moves, or is one more roster swing coming before opening night?

On today’s Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down three major questions that could shape the Bulls’ 2026-27 season.

First, the Jonathan Kuminga saga is over. Kuminga agreed to a two-year deal with Minnesota after reportedly choosing the Timberwolves over offers from Chicago, Los Angeles and Portland. With Bennedict Mathurin and Sylvain Francisco also off the board, the Bulls have now missed on multiple players who could have added self-created offense.

But does that mean Bryson Graham should force another move?

Chicago still has an open roster spot and flexibility. That gives the Bulls the ability to evaluate Rob Dillingham, Dailyn Swain and Jaylin Sellers, pursue another young player who unexpectedly becomes available, absorb salary for an asset, or simply wait until training camp exposes a real weakness.

Then Haize tackles one of the biggest on-court questions facing Tiago Splitter:

🔥 Who is the Bulls’ closer?

Is it Norman Powell, the proven All-Star scorer who can create efficiently without dominating the basketball?

Is it Josh Giddey, Chicago’s best playmaker and late-game offensive organizer?

Or should Matas Buzelis begin receiving the high-pressure possessions that will determine whether he can eventually become the Bulls’ true No. 1 scoring option?

Haize lays out a potential late-game hierarchy where Giddey quarterbacks the possession, Powell gets the first scoring opportunity and Matas becomes the developing second-side closer.

Finally, the show dives into a Bulls combination that may be getting overlooked:

👀 Josh Giddey + Nic Claxton.

Giddey has already shown how effective he can be creating offense with a skilled center. Claxton gives him a completely different weapon — vertical spacing, rim runs, lob finishing and short-roll playmaking.

If Giddey and Claxton develop chemistry, their pick-and-roll could generate easier scoring opportunities for Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson and Norman Powell.

But there is a major question: Will the Bulls have enough shooting around them to keep defenses from packing the paint?

🔥 Today’s topics:

• Jonathan Kuminga choosing Minnesota over Chicago
• Is Bryson Graham finished making moves?
• Bulls’ final roster spot and $9M+ flexibility
• When patience becomes inactivity
• Who should close games for Chicago?
• Norman Powell vs Matas Buzelis
• Josh Giddey as the Bulls’ late-game quarterback
• Why Matas needs meaningful clutch possessions
• Josh Giddey + Nic Claxton pick-and-roll potential
• How Claxton could unlock Caleb Wilson and Matas
• Chicago’s biggest starting-lineup spacing concern
• How Tiago Splitter can counter teams going under Giddey screens

🎧 Tap in with Haize on Chicago Bulls Central for the full breakdown.

Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/BullsCentralPod

Get at us:

Email: BullsCentralPod@gmail.com

Twitter:@BullsCentralPod

Phone: ‪(773) 270-2799‬

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Could the Chicago Bulls’ crowded offense hurt Caleb Wilson’s Rookie of the Year case?

On today’s Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down one of the biggest questions around the Bulls’ young core: Can Caleb Wilson win Rookie of the Year while sharing the offense with Josh Giddey, Norman Powell and Matas Buzelis? Caleb was one of the best players in Summer League, and the league may be even higher on him than the national media, but one concern is real — Wilson may not have the same clean path to touches as some other rookies.

Haize explains why Caleb is already a legitimate ROY candidate after averaging 23.5 points, 7.3 rebounds, 2.5 blocks and 1.3 steals in Summer League while shooting 50% overall and 41.9% from three. But the bigger discussion is how Tiago Splitter should structure Chicago’s offense so Caleb gets enough quality looks without slowing down the development of Matas Buzelis.

The key is understanding the difference between touches and shot attempts. Josh Giddey needs the ball to organize the offense, but he does not need to lead the team in shots. Norman Powell can score efficiently without hijacking possessions. Nic Claxton needs touches as a screener and roller, not as a high-volume scorer. That leaves room for Caleb and Matas if the Bulls build the offense correctly.

Then Haize asks whether the Bulls’ bench scorer may already be on the roster. Chicago explored Bennedict Mathurin, Jonathan Kuminga and Sylvain Francisco, but failed to land another scorer. Now the opportunity may fall to Dailyn Swain or Jaylin Sellers, two young players who offer completely different paths to solving the bench offense problem.

Swain brings size, rim pressure, rebounding, defense and secondary creation. Sellers brings shooting, microwave-scoring upside and a more traditional bench scorer profile. Haize breaks down why Sellers may be the more likely immediate scorer, while Swain may be the more likely consistent rotation player.

🔥 Topics include:

• Caleb Wilson’s Rookie of the Year chances
• Whether the Bulls’ offense is too crowded for Caleb
• Matas Buzelis’ development vs Caleb’s ROY push
• Josh Giddey’s role in creating easy baskets
• How Tiago Splitter should stagger Caleb and Matas
• What Caleb needs to average to win ROY
• Dailyn Swain as a bench scorer candidate
• Jaylin Sellers’ microwave scoring upside
• Why the Bulls may keep the 15th roster spot open
• Bulls voicemail reactions on Bruce Brown, SG of the future and player perception

🎧 Tap in with Haize on Chicago Bulls Central for the full breakdown!

Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/BullsCentralPod

Get at us:

Email: BullsCentralPod@gmail.com

Twitter:@BullsCentralPod

Phone: ‪(773) 270-2799‬

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Should the Chicago Bulls take a swing on Cam Whitmore after Cleveland waived him?

On today’s Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down why the Bulls’ potential connection to Cam Whitmore should be treated as logical speculation — not confirmed reporting. There is currently no credible report that Chicago has contacted Whitmore or plans to submit a waiver claim, but the fit is worth discussing because the Bulls have an open roster spot, need bench scoring, and have already been connected to several scorer types this offseason.

Haize explains why Whitmore should interest Chicago. He is still only 22, has NBA scoring production on his résumé, and brings the downhill athleticism, transition force, physicality and self-created scoring upside the Bulls failed to land with names like Bennedict Mathurin, Jonathan Kuminga and Sylvain Francisco.

But this is not a no-brainer. Whitmore’s season ended because of an upper-extremity deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder, meaning any Bulls pursuit must begin with a serious medical evaluation. Chicago also has to decide whether adding Whitmore helps the rebuild by creating legitimate competition — or complicates the development path for Dailyn Swain, Jaylin Sellers, Rob Dillingham, Leonard Miller, Patrick Williams and Noa Essengue.

Then Haize shifts to a bigger roster question: is the Bulls’ depth being overlooked? Chicago may have 12 or 13 players capable of contributing, but the real question is how many of them Tiago Splitter can actually trust. The Bulls have plenty of playable bodies, but their bench still lacks the kind of proven scoring punch that separates the East’s best second units.

Haize breaks down why Tre Jones is Chicago’s most dependable reserve, why Jalen Smith and Zach Collins give the Bulls frontcourt insurance, why the wing depth is more uncertain than it looks, and why Rob Dillingham may be the swing player who decides whether Chicago’s bench is closer to top-seven in the East or stuck in the bottom half.

🔥 Topics include:

• Should the Bulls claim Cam Whitmore?
• Why Whitmore fits Chicago’s bench scoring need
• The medical concern Chicago cannot ignore
• Whitmore vs. Swain, Sellers and Dillingham
• Why development minutes should not be protected from competition
• Is the Bulls’ bench being underrated?
• Tre Jones as Chicago’s safest reserve
• Jalen Smith, Zach Collins and frontcourt depth
• Patrick Williams’ bench role complication
• Rob Dillingham as the swing piece for the second unit
• How Tiago Splitter should stagger starters and reserves
• Voicemail reactions on Claxton, development, Patrick Williams and Tiago’s offense

🎧 Tap in with Haize on Chicago Bulls Central for the full breakdown!

Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/BullsCentralPod

Get at us:

Email: BullsCentralPod@gmail.com

Twitter:@BullsCentralPod

Phone: ‪(773) 270-2799‬

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Chicago Bulls are entering a new era, and several roles on this roster could change fast.

On today’s Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down why Bryson Graham and Tiago Splitter appear to be steering the Bulls toward a true rebuild instead of chasing the Play-In Tournament at all costs. That means this season could feel very different — roles will be earned, young players will be tested, and veterans may not be locked into the same responsibilities they had under the previous regime.

Haize starts with Josh Giddey, whose role could become more simplified. Giddey may still be important as a facilitator, but with Norman Powell, Caleb Wilson and Matas Buzelis expected to carry more scoring responsibility, Tiago Splitter may not ask Giddey to be the same scoring-heavy lead guard Chicago saw last season.

Then the show shifts to Leonard Miller, who could force his way into bigger minutes after a strong finish last season. Miller averaged nearly 15 points and 7.3 rebounds over his final 18 games while shooting efficiently, and his size, energy and two-way upside could make him a natural fit for the new Bulls identity.

The most explosive conversation: Patrick Williams’ rotation spot may no longer be safe. Patrick is still making major money, but this new front office has no attachment to that contract. With Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, Dailyn Swain, Isaac Okoro, Leonard Miller, Noa Essengue and Jalen Smith all competing for forward minutes, Patrick should have to earn his role in camp.

Haize also breaks down the Bulls’ failed search for a bench scorer. Chicago missed on or was connected to Bennedict Mathurin, Jonathan Kuminga and Sylvain Francisco, leaving a real opportunity for Rob Dillingham, Jaylin Sellers and Dailyn Swain to claim the job.

Finally, Haize asks whether Bryson Graham quietly built this roster for another trade-deadline pivot. Norman Powell, Tre Jones, Zach Collins, Jalen Smith and Isaac Okoro can all help now — but they may also become movable assets if contenders come calling.

🔥 Topics include:

• Josh Giddey’s changing offensive role
• Leonard Miller’s chance to steal minutes
• Patrick Williams fighting for his rotation spot
• Rob Dillingham vs Jaylin Sellers vs Dailyn Swain
• The Bulls’ failed bench scorer search
• Training camp battles under Tiago Splitter
• Norman Powell as a possible deadline asset
• Tre Jones, Jalen Smith, Zach Collins and Isaac Okoro trade value
• Bryson Graham’s rebuild strategy
• Development vs. deadline selling

🎧 Tap in with Haize on Chicago Bulls Central for the full breakdown!

Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/BullsCentralPod

Get at us:

Email: BullsCentralPod@gmail.com

Twitter:@BullsCentralPod

Phone: ‪(773) 270-2799‬

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jonathan Kuminga reportedly turned down the Chicago Bulls — and now Bulls fans have to ask what it really means.

On today’s Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down the updated Kuminga situation after he signed with the Minnesota Timberwolves on a two-year, $13 million deal with a second-year player option. Chicago reportedly made an actual offer, along with the Lakers and Trail Blazers, but Kuminga chose Minnesota’s role, winning situation, and path to rebuilding his value.

Haize explains why the rejection is not devastating, but it is interesting. Kuminga fits Chicago’s age timeline, but the Bulls already have Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, Patrick Williams, Noa Essengue and Leonard Miller competing for forward minutes. The bigger concern is whether young players view Chicago as a place where they can build value — especially if the Bulls offered more money and still lost out.

Then the show shifts to Bennedict Mathurin, who signed with New Orleans on a two-year, $16 million deal with a player option after averaging 17.6 points, 5.4 rebounds and 2.4 assists last season. Haize asks whether Chicago made a mistake by not prioritizing a 24-year-old scorer at that price — especially when the Bulls still need downhill shot creation.

Finally, Haize looks at whether Jordan Hawkins should now be on Chicago’s radar. New Orleans had reportedly discussed Hawkins trades before adding Mathurin, and Hawkins’ $7 million salary fits inside Chicago’s remaining room exception. But Haize warns that Hawkins is not Mathurin or Kuminga — he is a low-cost shooting experiment whose actual NBA production has not matched the reputation yet.

🔥 Topics include:

• Jonathan Kuminga turning down the Bulls
• Why Kuminga chose Minnesota
• What the rejection says about Chicago’s appeal
• Did the Bulls avoid a Kuminga mistake?
• Did Chicago miss a bargain with Bennedict Mathurin?
• Mathurin vs. Norman Powell value debate
• Jordan Hawkins as a potential Bulls trade target
• Whether Hawkins fits next to Giddey, Caleb and Matas
• Bryson Graham’s real offseason plan
• Patience vs. missed opportunity

🎧 Tap in with Haize on Chicago Bulls Central for the full breakdown!

Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/BullsCentralPod

Get at us:

Email: BullsCentralPod@gmail.com

Twitter:@BullsCentralPod

Phone: ‪(773) 270-2799‬

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

ESPN projects the Chicago Bulls to go 31–51 again — but does that actually mean the Bulls failed to improve?

On today’s Chicago Bulls Central, Haize reacts to ESPN’s Summer Forecast placing the Bulls 13th in the Eastern Conference at 31–51, the same record as last season. But the bigger story is the depth of the East: ESPN projects the 10th-place team at 44 wins, meaning Chicago could become a better basketball team and still not climb much in the standings.

Haize explains why ESPN’s projection is defensible. The Bulls are still beginning a real rebuild with Caleb Wilson, Matas Buzelis, Josh Giddey, Dailyn Swain, Noa Essengue, Rob Dillingham, and a new head coach in Tiago Splitter all bringing different levels of uncertainty. But Haize also pushes back: this is not the same 31-win team simply running it back. Chicago added Caleb Wilson, Norman Powell and Nic Claxton, while also banking on internal growth from Giddey, Matas, Leonard Miller and Dillingham.

Then Haize asks whether Tiago Splitter can unlock Matas Buzelis the way he helped unlock Deni Avdija. Deni jumped from 16.9 points, 7.3 rebounds and 3.9 assists to 24.2 points, 6.9 rebounds and 6.7 assists under Splitter, while becoming a first-time All-Star. The lesson for Matas: attack with force, create for others, get to the free-throw line and stop letting the defense dictate where he plays.

Finally, Haize dives into the Windy City Bulls development plan after Chicago hired Quincy Pondexter to lead the G League team. Should Noa Essengue and Dailyn Swain spend time in the G League? Haize says yes — if it’s done correctly. Noa needs heavy reps. Swain should compete for NBA minutes first, but Windy City can be a development shuttle, not an exile.

🔥 Topics include:

• ESPN projecting the Bulls at 31–51 again
• Why the East’s depth changes the conversation
• Why 31 wins could still be a successful development season
• Caleb Wilson, Matas Buzelis and Josh Giddey as the real measuring sticks
• Tiago Splitter’s possible impact on Matas
• Deni Avdija’s leap as a blueprint
• Noa Essengue and Dailyn Swain G League debate
• Quincy Pondexter, Jordan Brink and Splitter building a real player-development pipeline

🎧 Tap in with Haize on Chicago Bulls Central for the full breakdown!

Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/BullsCentralPod

Get at us:

Email: BullsCentralPod@gmail.com

Twitter:@BullsCentralPod

Phone: ‪(773) 270-2799‬

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Matas Buzelis wants to adjust his shot profile — and it could be exactly what his star leap needs.

On today’s Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down why Matas wanting to reduce his three-point volume is not automatically a bad thing. After averaging 16.3 points while taking 6.4 threes per game and shooting 34.9% from deep, Matas may be looking to become more than just a rim-or-three scorer. The key is not abandoning the three-point shot — it is adding a reliable midrange counter that helps him become a true three-level scorer.

Haize explains why the midrange is not dead, why bad midrange basketball is dead, and how a 10-to-15-foot pull-up could help Matas punish defenders who run him off the line. If Matas can become a better finisher through contact, attack closeouts, get to the free-throw line and add a reliable short midrange game, his Year 3 leap could change the Bulls’ offensive ceiling.

Then the show shifts to Jalen Duren, whose contract situation with Detroit could get very interesting. Duren struggled in the 2025-26 playoffs, but Haize explains why Bulls fans should not let one bad postseason erase the fact that he is a 22-year-old All-Star center who averaged nearly 20 points and 10 rebounds in the regular season. If Duren reaches unrestricted free agency in 2027, Chicago should be watching closely — but only after evaluating Nic Claxton, Caleb Wilson’s shooting, and the long-term frontcourt fit.

Finally, Haize connects the Sylvain Francisco story to Rob Dillingham. The Bulls nearly added a EuroLeague guard who could score, shoot, run pick-and-roll and organize the second unit. That should not discourage Rob — it should motivate him. If Dillingham can become a reliable bench scorer and secondary creator, he could save Bryson Graham from spending assets on another guard.

🔥 Topics include:

• Matas Buzelis wanting fewer threes
• Why Matas needs a midrange counter
• How Matas can become a three-level scorer
• Why playoff scorers need counters
• Jalen Duren’s contract situation
• Should the Bulls monitor Duren in 2027?
• How Duren would fit with Caleb, Matas and Giddey
• Why Rob Dillingham should be fired up by the Francisco pursuit
• Rob’s path to becoming Chicago’s bench scorer
• How player development can save the Bulls assets

🎧 Tap in with Haize on Chicago Bulls Central for the full breakdown!

Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/BullsCentralPod

Get at us:

Email: BullsCentralPod@gmail.com

Twitter:@BullsCentralPod

Phone: ‪(773) 270-2799‬

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Caleb Wilson hype has officially gone wild — but what if some of it is actually justified?

On today’s Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down why the comparisons to Tracy McGrady, Shawn Kemp, Pascal Siakam and Kevin Garnett may be too much for a rookie who has not played an NBA regular-season minute yet — while also explaining why the excitement around Caleb Wilson has a real foundation. Wilson’s Summer League production was not just empty scoring: he averaged 23.5 points, 7.3 rebounds, 2.5 blocks, 1.3 steals and shot 41.9% from three in limited minutes.

Haize explains why Caleb’s ceiling is so fascinating: transition offense, rim pressure, rebounding, defensive versatility, weak-side rim protection and shooting upside. The key is not calling him KG or T-Mac — it’s understanding that potential superstar traits are not the same thing as already being a superstar.

The episode also asks the real Year 1 questions: Is Caleb’s jumper real? Can he create in the half court? Does his defensive IQ match his defensive tools? And can the Bulls develop him properly without forcing him to carry the franchise immediately?

Then Haize shifts to Bryson Graham and whether the NBA’s new market has already complicated part of the Bulls’ rebuild plan. Fans expected Chicago to absorb bad contracts and collect first-round picks, but that market has not really materialized this summer. With future first-round picks becoming more valuable, pick-protection rules changing, and front offices getting smarter about contract structure, Graham may need to evolve his strategy.

Haize explains why Bulls fans should not criticize Graham for failing to take salary-dump deals that were not available — but also why flexibility cannot be the answer forever. Eventually, Graham must turn cap space, movable contracts, roster spots and young prospects into more talent.

🔥 Topics include:

• Caleb Wilson hype and superstar comparisons
• Why the KG/T-Mac talk is too much
• Why Caleb’s Summer League actually mattered
• ESPN’s high view of Caleb’s long-term ceiling
• Caleb’s jumper, half-court creation and defensive IQ
• Why Caleb and Matas Buzelis should grow together
• Did the new NBA market hurt Bryson Graham’s rebuild plan?
• Why salary-dump first-round picks are harder to find
• How the new lottery and apron rules changed the market
• Graham’s Plan B: asset creation, deadline flexibility and player development

🎧 Tap in with Haize on Chicago Bulls Central for the full breakdown!

Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/BullsCentralPod

Get at us:

Email: BullsCentralPod@gmail.com

Twitter:@BullsCentralPod

Phone: ‪(773) 270-2799‬

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Chicago Bulls almost signed one of the best guards outside the NBA — and that may tell us a lot about what Bryson Graham thinks this roster still needs.

On today’s Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down the report that the Bulls showed interest in Sylvain Francisco, the All-EuroLeague guard who finished second in EuroLeague MVP voting before signing a three-year deal with Panathinaikos. Francisco reportedly said Chicago wanted to complete another trade first, raising one major question: what was Bryson Graham planning?

Francisco is not a long-term core piece like Caleb Wilson, Matas Buzelis, Josh Giddey, Dailyn Swain or Rob Dillingham, but his skill set makes the Bulls’ interest fascinating. He brings burst, pick-and-roll creation, pull-up shooting, bench scoring and second-unit organization — exactly the areas Chicago may still be evaluating behind Giddey and Norman Powell.

Haize discusses why Francisco could have made sense as a bridge guard, how he would have fit with Caleb Wilson, Nic Claxton and Jalen Smith in pick-and-roll actions, and why his 39.9% three-point shooting last season made him more than just a European scoring guard.

But the bigger story may be the mystery trade. Was Graham trying to consolidate the guard room? Move a veteran like Isaac Okoro or Jalen Smith for assets? Or was Francisco simply part of a larger sequence that never came together because of the NBA’s offseason holding pattern?

Then Haize shifts to Josh Giddey, who may need to score less this season — and that could actually make him more valuable. With Caleb Wilson needing developmental touches, Matas Buzelis needing more creation reps, and Norman Powell capable of handling tough scoring possessions, Giddey’s future may depend on whether he can become the connector who makes everyone better instead of chasing another 17/8/9 season.

🔥 Topics include:

• Bulls almost signing Sylvain Francisco
• What Bryson Graham may have been planning
• The mystery trade Chicago wanted to complete first
• Why Francisco’s EuroLeague production mattered
• Rob Dillingham, Dailyn Swain and Jaylin Sellers’ opportunity
• Josh Giddey’s changing offensive role
• Why Giddey may need to score less
• Caleb Wilson and Matas Buzelis needing creation reps
• How Giddey’s game scales against the best Eastern Conference defenses
• What this means for the Bulls’ long-term backcourt

🎧 Tap in with Haize on Chicago Bulls Central for the full breakdown!

Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/BullsCentralPod

Get at us:

Email: BullsCentralPod@gmail.com

Twitter:@BullsCentralPod

Phone: ‪(773) 270-2799‬

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Could the Chicago Bulls still make one more free-agent swing before training camp?

On today’s Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down the top free-agent and potential waiver targets who could still fit the Bulls’ rebuild, including Bennedict Mathurin, Cam Whitmore, Cam Thomas, Bruce Brown and Ochai Agbaji. The big correction: Cam Whitmore is not technically a free agent yet, but Cleveland is reportedly weighing a waive-and-stretch move that could put him on the market — and if that happens, he immediately becomes one of the most interesting Bulls targets available.

Haize explains why Mathurin is the best player available but also the most complicated option. He brings youth and proven scoring, but his restricted free-agent status, expected price range, and the likely need for a sign-and-trade make him a difficult fit for Chicago’s current plan.

The show dives into why Cam Whitmore might be the best realistic Bulls opportunity if Cleveland waives him. At only 22 years old, Whitmore offers scoring aggression, rim pressure, transition ability and reclamation upside at a potentially depressed price — exactly the kind of low-risk swing a rebuilding team should consider.

Haize also weighs Cam Thomas as a pure bench bucket-getter, Bruce Brown as a veteran stabilizer, and Ochai Agbaji as a quiet 3-and-D flyer. With several useful players still unsigned and most teams out of meaningful spending power, Chicago’s $9.4 million room exception may suddenly have real leverage.

Plus, Matas Buzelis wants his get back against Luka Doncic. After their March trash-talk exchange ended with Luka dropping 51, Matas said he would talk again and wants another shot — and Haize explains why that competitive edge matters for a young Bulls forward trying to earn respect.

🔥 Topics include:

• Bulls free-agent options before training camp
• Bennedict Mathurin’s fit and price problem
• Cam Whitmore as a possible waiver target
• Cam Thomas as bench scoring insurance
• Bruce Brown as the veteran stabilizer
• Ochai Agbaji as a low-cost wing flyer
• Why Chicago’s room exception has new value
• Matas Buzelis wanting revenge on Luka Doncic
• Bulls voicemails on Matas, Cam Whitmore and future star swings

🎧 Tap in with Haize on Chicago Bulls Central for the full breakdown!

Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/BullsCentralPod

Get at us:

Email: BullsCentralPod@gmail.com

Twitter:@BullsCentralPod

Phone: ‪(773) 270-2799‬

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Eastern Conference got deeper, tougher and more star-powered — so where do the rebuilding Chicago Bulls actually fit?

On today’s Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down why the Bulls should absolutely try to win in 2026-27, but why this season should be judged more as an information season than a simple Play-In-or-bust campaign. Chicago is not really competing with the top of the East yet. The bigger question is whether Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis and Caleb Wilson can prove they are the foundation of a team that can eventually climb the conference.

The East is no longer the soft conference fans have joked about for years. New York is the defending champion, Philadelphia added LeBron James and Jaylen Brown, Boston still has Jayson Tatum, Miami added Giannis Antetokounmpo, Indiana gets Tyrese Haliburton back, Detroit went 60-22, and Cleveland added Peyton Watson while retaining James Harden.

Haize explains why Chicago’s real battle may not be with the championship tier yet, but with the teams directly ahead of them: Atlanta, Orlando, Charlotte and Washington. NBA.com’s preseason ranking had Atlanta ninth, Orlando 10th, Charlotte 11th, Washington 12th and Chicago 13th — making that group the Bulls’ immediate neighborhood.

The show also lays out the real success markers for the season: Caleb Wilson looking like a cornerstone, Matas making a meaningful Year 3 jump, Giddey proving he fits with both, Chicago improving defensively, multiple young players establishing roles, and Tiago Splitter building a clear identity.

Plus, Haize reacts to the Bulls getting bumped to No. 23 in CBS Sports’ front office rankings. Bryson Graham has brought Chicago a clearer direction, but he still has plenty to prove after a modest offseason built around flexibility, player development and evaluation.

🔥 Topics include:

• Where the Bulls fit in a loaded Eastern Conference
• Why Play-In-or-bust is too simple
• Caleb Wilson’s cornerstone test
• Matas Buzelis’ Year 3 leap
• Josh Giddey’s long-term fit
• Why the Bulls should prioritize information over empty wins
• Chicago’s real tier: Atlanta, Orlando, Charlotte and Washington
• Why the Central Division makes the climb harder
• Bryson Graham’s front office ranking bump
• Why the Bulls are in the prove-it stage

🎧 Tap in with Haize on Chicago Bulls Central for the full breakdown!

Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/BullsCentralPod

Get at us:

Email: BullsCentralPod@gmail.com

Twitter:@BullsCentralPod

Phone: ‪(773) 270-2799‬

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy