Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Despite an active NBA trade deadline, the Chicago Bulls’ front office has failed to win over critics. Both local and national enthusiasts have quickly criticized the organization’s moves, arguing the team’s hesitancy to fully rebuild has led to lackluster returns. The Bulls added several veteran pieces that some view as counterintuitive to their long-term goals, and the team’s lack of a clear vision has left many questioning the front office’s plan.

Why it matters

The Bulls’ front office has long struggled to define a clear vision for the team, and the latest front office rankings from CBS Sports reflect the ongoing skepticism around Arturas Karnisovas and his team. With the team facing significant roster turnover this offseason, the Bulls have a chance to reshape their direction, but they will need to demonstrate a more coherent plan to win over critics.

The details

The Bulls failed to receive a first-round pick in trades involving Ayo Dosunmu and Coby White, and they even had to give back a second-round pick in the White trade due to an issue with his physical. The team also added several veteran players like Anfernee Simons, Collin Sexton, Nick Richards, and Guerschon Yabusele, which some view as counterintuitive to a rebuild. While the Bulls have increased their lottery odds by losing 10 of their last 11 games, the long-term plan remains unclear.

The Bulls have lost 10 of their last 11 games, slightly increasing their lottery odds in recent weeks.
The players

Arturas Karnisovas

The executive vice president of basketball operations for the Chicago Bulls.

Ayo Dosunmu

A player the Bulls traded away without receiving a first-round pick in return.

Coby White

A player the Bulls traded away without receiving a first-round pick in return, and they even had to give back a second-round pick due to an issue with his physical.

Anfernee Simons

A veteran player the Bulls added, which some view as counterintuitive to a rebuild.

Collin Sexton

A veteran player the Bulls added, which some view as counterintuitive to a rebuild.

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What they’re saying

“There is no defense to be found here, and I can’t really figure out what the plan is beyond “play fast and figure it out.” They just went through a mini teardown, so let’s see how the offseason goes, but it’s been quite some time since the Bulls had a clear, definable vision, so none of this is really out of the ordinary.”

— Sam Quinn, CBS Sports writer (CBS Sports)

What’s next

The Bulls will need to demonstrate a more coherent plan for the future during the offseason, as they face significant roster turnover with nearly half the team set to hit free agency.

The takeaway

The Chicago Bulls’ front office continues to struggle to define a clear vision for the team, and their recent trade deadline moves have done little to win over critics. With an important offseason ahead, the Bulls will need to show they can put together a more competitive and well-defined product on the court to climb the front office rankings.