For the past several years, a narrative has been building around the Chicago Bulls and their inability to attract top-tier free agents. Scottie Pippen put it bluntly in 2020 when he said on the Tiki and Tierney Show, “It doesn't look like Chicago is a destination for free agents. It's never been the way they've been built, so I don't expect that to happen.” As controversial as it sounds, there is really no way to dispute it.
The track record speaks for itself. The Bulls’ biggest signings in recent memory include Alex Caruso, who was nowhere near the player he is now and was considered an overpay at the time. Dwyane Wade and Rajon Rondo, who were well past their primes in 2016, and Pau Gasol, who was 34 when he joined in 2014. And no, sign-and-trades do not count. Chicago’s free agency signings often looked more like backup options rather than franchise-altering moves.
But the perception may finally be changing.
Tre Jones chooses Chicago above all else
During training camp, one of the first players to speak with the media was Tre Jones, who arrived in Chicago at last season’s trade deadline in the Zach LaVine deal. As an unrestricted free agent this past summer, Jones had free rein to speak to any team he pleased. Instead, he made it clear where he wanted to be.
“I definitely wanted to be back. I didn't think about going anywhere else,” Jones said, via K.C. Johnson of Chicago Sports Network and Joel Lorenzi of The Athletic. A statement like this signals meaningful progress in the Bulls’ ability to attract free agents.
Jones signed a three-year, $24 million deal, but the decision went beyond money. It indicates opportunity, comfort within the system, and a sense that he is valued here. For a 25-year-old point guard with steady production and room to grow, passing up other potential offers to stay with a rebuilding Chicago team says a lot.
In 18 games with the Bulls last season, Jones averaged 11.5 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 4.9 assists in just over 25 minutes per night. His impact was immediate, and his decision to re-sign without hesitation shows that players can see a future here.
The future of Chicago Bulls free agency
Now, the real test will come in the 2026 offseason. Next summer, the Bulls are projected to have over $85 million coming off the books if no extensions are handed out, creating one of the most flexible financial situations in the league. For once, they’ll have the resources to go after more than a few role players that will patch some needs, but potentially the ability to chase a star.
The 2026 free agent class could feature young restricted free agents like Jaden Ivey, Shaedon Sharpe, Jalen Duren, Mark Williams, Tari Eason, and Walker Kessler. Additionally, veterans such as Kevin Durant, Kristaps Porzingis, and Anfernee Simons could also be available depending on how the market unfolds. Of course, the space only exists if the Bulls choose not to re-sign their current big-money guys like Nikola Vucevic, Zach Collins, Kevin Huerter, and Coby White, who all currently make $12-plus million per year.
Cap space alone has never been enough to bring stars to Chicago. What makes 2026 different is the foundation that's already in place. A young core headlined by Matas Buzelis, a well-respected head coach, the appeal of a top-three market in the league, and financial flexibility create a scenario the Bulls haven’t had in years.