The Chicago Bulls have stumbled out of the gates with two blowout losses and a 1-3 record. There have been flashes of potential, with Caleb Wilson being the primary source of optimism, but the glaring lack of developable talent and the absence of short-term success is making it clear that change is needed.
With this in mind, the Bulls should have the trade deadline circled in permanent marker as they prepare to flip Nicolas Claxton and Norman Powell for long-term assets.
Chicago seems to be building its team around 22-year-old wing Matas Buzelis, 24-year-old playmaker Josh Giddey, and 20-year-old franchise player Caleb Wilson. That makes the 33-year-old Powell and perhaps even the 27-year-old Claxton fairly imperfect fits in terms of the team's timeline of progression.
It also makes Claxton and Powell trade candidates for a team that has every reason to improve its long-term assets when its short-term outlook isn't particularly riveting.
Yes, the five players listed have the potential to form a strong starting lineup that can help Chicago compete for a spot in the Play-In Tournament. The Bulls could even search the trade market for depth pieces who can strengthen a generally unproven second unit.
With only three established long-term building blocks and question marks surrounding both Buzelis and Giddey, one can't help but feel as though an ugly start is a sign that the trade market will be an ally.
Bulls should be constantly looking at Claxton and Powell's trade value
Claxton is a proven big in the NBA with defensive versatility, quality playmaking, and a general two-way adaptability on his side. He also has a tradable contract with $23,320,738 coming his way in 2026-27 and $21,099,720 owed for 2027-28 before he enters unrestricted free agency in 2028.
For a team in need of a defensive-minded big who can be acquired without a long-term commitment being made, Claxton could thus prove appealing enough to yield first-round draft compensation.
Powell, meanwhile, is fresh off of being an All-Star in 2025-26. He's one of the best three-point shooters in the NBA, as well as an established volume scorer who can slot into on and off-ball roles in just about any offensive system.
Powell is yet another player who could command a first-round draft pick in a trade and may even be able to bring back up-and-coming talent that his new team would deprioritize in favor of immediate value.
In both scenarios, the Bulls would be adding assets that can help them build along Wilson's timeline and surround him with a deeper roster. Yes, they would be parting with two of their few established players, but in the process, they'd solidify their place as a team on the rise by giving Wilson help that can improve along with him.
Yes, the Bulls could realistically turn things around between now and the trade deadline. As the offense searches for direction and the limitations of the roster instantly become clear, however, moving veterans for long-term assets is clearly the ideal option for the front office.
Add us as a preferred source on Google