The Chicago Bulls' backup big's rising value could fuel a strategic move for lasting team stability.
The Chicago Bulls are open to moving center Jalen Smith before the February 5 trade deadline, per NBA reporter Evan Sidery.
Smith is experiencing an improved season as a backup big man, averaging 9.0 points and 6.3 rebounds in 17.7 minutes. After making only two starts last season, he has recorded three starts this year while Billy Donovan emphasized playing two-big rotations before Smith was sidelined due to a concussion. He's also shooting 36% from three-point range.
Smith was selected 10th overall by the Phoenix Suns in 2020, spending his first four seasons with the Suns and the Indiana Pacers before being traded to the Chicago Bulls in 2024. He's currently under contract through 2027, earning $9 million this season and $9.43 million in 2026-27 before becoming an unrestricted free agent.
The Bulls could seek a boost to address their frontcourt weakness. Given Smith's resurgence, Chicago would benefit from his rising trade value by seeking another backup big man who better aligns with Donovan's long-term system. With Zach Collins dealing with recurring injuries and Nikola Vucevic aging, acquiring a more reliable frontcourt piece could provide stability down the stretch.
With seven players' contracts expiring in the 2026 offseason, it's no secret the Bulls will become the biggest seller at either the trade deadline or this summer. Chicago is also reportedly open to moving backup guard Ayo Dosunmu, whose contract expires after the season.
As the trade deadline approaches in less than a month, teams across the league are likely focused on the Bulls' trade ladder. A move or two appears inevitable as Chicago evaluates its direction. The key question awaits the front office to answer: How can they build a better rotation around Josh Giddey to become a legitimate playoff contender rather than remain stuck in play-in purgatory? That answer will define the Bulls' trajectory beyond this season.