De’Aaron Fox (image via Getty) In a potential shake-up of the NBA landscape, a newly proposed three-team blockbuster trade would land Sacramento Kings’ star guard De’Aaron Fox in the Chicago Bulls. The speculative deal, reported by Joe Mayo of SI.com, outlines a significant roster reconfiguration involving the Chicago Bulls, San Antonio Spurs, and Atlanta Hawks, aimed at realigning each team’s strategy heading into the upcoming season.
Deal Structure: Who Gets What?
According to Mayo’s report, the proposed trade would unfold as follows:TeamReceivesBulls De’Aaron Fox, Kobe Bufkin, 2029 first-round pick (top-8 protected via ATL)Spurs Kevin Huerter, Coby White, 2027 first-round pick (top-10 protected via CHI)Hawks Ayo DosunmuThis proposed trade offers a major backcourt upgrade for Chicago, a potential pick-and-development angle for San Antonio, and a role-playing guard for Atlanta.
Chicago Bulls: Upgrading the Backcourt Amid Rebuild
The Chicago Bulls have largely flown under the radar this offseason. Following a Play-In Tournament exit at the hands of the Miami Heat, the front office made minor moves—trading Lonzo Ball for Isaac Okoro and re-signing Tre Jones. They are also in ongoing talks with restricted free agent Josh Giddey, whose future in Chicago remains uncertain.If negotiations with Giddey stall, acquiring De’Aaron Fox would offer the Bulls a new cornerstone in their backcourt. While Coby White has shown promise, Fox is a clear upgrade, bringing All-Star-level talent, elite speed, and scoring prowess.
Potential Gains for Chicago:
• Star-caliber Point Guard in Fox • Youth Development Piece in Kobe Bufkin (age 21) • Future Asset: Top-8 protected 2029 first-round pickEven if De’Aaron Fox walks in free agency next offseason, the Chicago Bulls would still retain the draft pick and development rights for Bufkin, making this a relatively low-risk, high-upside move.
Spurs: Flexibility and a Strong Rotation Piece
FILE – Chicago Bulls’ Lonzo Ball (2) drives against Cleveland Cavaliers’ Isaac Okoro (35) in the first half of an NBA basketball game, Dec. 8, 2021, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/Tony Dejak, File)
San Antonio’s involvement hinges on their long-term vision for De’Aaron Fox, whom they traded for last season. If the Spurs are hesitant to offer him a substantial contract extension, this deal provides an exit strategy with solid returns: • Coby White, under contract through 2026-27, adds guard depth and shooting. • Kevin Huerter strengthens their rotation with size and perimeter scoring. • A 2027 first-round pick, albeit protected, boosts their draft capital.However, Mayo notes: “It’s still more likely that San Antonio will pursue an extension with De’Aaron Fox after trading for him last season.” Still, the trade presents a fallback option if talks sour.
Hawks: Swapping a Pick for Ayo Dosunmu
Atlanta would receive Ayo Dosunmu, a versatile two-way guard, in exchange for sending a protected 2029 first-round pick to Chicago. Dosunmu’s defensive tenacity and improving offensive game would make him a solid addition to the Hawks’ bench unit.
What This Means for Each Team
For the Bulls: • Opens a pathway to a new era, possibly moving past the Zach LaVine-DeMar DeRozan core • Provides insurance if Giddey walks or becomes too expensive • Offers developmental upside with BufkinFor the Spurs: • Allows asset recovery if they don’t extend Fox • Gains a reliable scorer in White and a pick for future useFor the Hawks: • Adds backcourt depth with a young, defensively strong guardThis trade, while speculative, speaks volumes about the shifting dynamics in the league and how teams are positioning for the future. The Chicago Bulls are clearly exploring contingency plans around their roster, and De’Aaron Fox could represent a significant pivot in their rebuild strategy.Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Blockbuster 3-Team Deal Lands the Golden Stand Warriors $100 Million Brooklyn Nets GuardAs Joe Mayo of SI.com concludes, “If the two sides are unable to reach an agreement, moving him remains a viable option.” That sentiment could apply to any of the three teams involved, making this trade more than just a rumor—it’s a real possibility rooted in the realities of contract talks and team direction.