Once the NBA trade deadline has passed, potential playoff contenders around the NBA can then turn their attention to the buyout market to try and strengthen the rest of their rotation. And while it’s hard to tell at the moment what approach the Chicago Bulls new front office regime will take at the looming March 25 trade deadline, we do know this team is currently within striking distance of a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
Entering a key matchup with the former employee of the Bulls first-year head coach Billy Donovan at home at the United Center on the night of March 16, this team carries a record of 17-20. Prior to tip off against the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Bulls were able to snap their two-game losing streak since the All-Star Break by knocking off the Toronto Raptors at home on March 14.
If the Bulls are able to show up in the next few games like they did against the Raptors in a win by more than a 20 point margin to cap the weekend then this team could realistically take on the role of a buyer at the deadline.
Chicago Bulls and the looming buyout market options
But what if there’s no good options available on the trade market come the deadline later next week?
The next best option for playoff teams (even the potential lower seeds) after the deadline is usually hitting the buyout market. And considering the first-year Bulls executive vice president of basketball operations Arturas Karnisovas and general manager Marc Eversley doesn’t look to sign too many consequential contracts since taking the reigns for this front office last offseason, the buyout market could make a lot of sense for him to look to.
With that in mind, here’s a look into three potential buyout market candidates for the Bulls that could fit into the rotation right away and make an impact.