Chicago is almost entirely open for business at this year's NBA trade deadline, which will make these next few days intriguing for Bulls fans. The only players that executive VP of basketball operations Artūras Karnišovas has on his "untouchables" list are Josh Giddey and Matas Buzelis -- meaning Coby White, Ayo Dosunmu and Tre Jones, among others -- are available.
Karnišovas is taking a much different approach to this season's deadline than in years past. He was too slow to move DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine. Unfortunately, the same issue is haunting him with Nikola Vucevic.
But it appears he may have learned from his mistakes -- at least somewhat, anyway -- if the latest reports coming out of the Windy City are accurate.
Bulls fans should be thrilled to learn who's available at the trade deadline
Karnišovas has inserted his team directly into the rumor mill with only six days to go before Feb. 5. White's name is a constant in discussions across the league, with the Minnesota Timberwolves mentioned as a destination. Dosunmu and Jones would also fit snugly next to Anthony Edwards.
The Bulls made an effort to send Vucevic to the Boston Celtics, though it proved futile. Zach Collins and Kevin Huerter are useful role players on expiring contracts. Jalen Smith is in the midst of a breakout season. It's fair to wonder, though, whether any of those players will actually be dealt.
But Michael Scotto of HoopsHype broke some welcome news in terms of Karnisovas' ultimate plans.
After reiterating the existing interest around the Bulls' trio of guards, he writes, "Essentially, outside of Giddey and Matas Buzelis, Chicago is willing to listen to everyone else regarding the rest of the roster."
It's reasonable to expect some movement from Chicago before Feb. 5
The Bulls solidified Giddey's status as a core piece after signing him to a four-year, $100 million contract this offseason. Buzelis is the closest thing Chicago has to a potential superstar and won't be going anywhere unless a league-altering, blockbuster move (Giannis Antetokounmpo, anyone?) hits the Windy City.
Karnišovas may be looking to acquire young talent rather than trade players like White simply to trade them. New Orleans Pelicans center Yves Missi would be a logical target, and may, in fact, be a gettable one.
Dosunmu might have played himself close to untouchable status, but if the right opportunity presents itself, he should certainly be available.
Even if the Bulls stand pat over the next few days, though, it should encourage fans that the organization may finally be altering its strategy.