The direction of the Chicago Bulls has often felt stagnant, marked by inconsistent progress from top prospects and lingering questions about player development. Young players frequently show flashes of promise early in their careers, only to stall before taking the next step. For many critics, the pattern has become too familiar: Bulls prospects often reach their full potential only after leaving Chicago.
Since 2016, the Bulls have made nine first-round draft selections. Of those, six have either been traded or are no longer with the organization. While roster turnover is common during rebuilds, the concerning trend is how several of those players have flourished in new environments, raising questions about whether Chicago has provided the structure and development needed to maximize young talent.
The most notable example is Lauri Markkanen, who blossomed after being traded to the Cavs. In 2023, Markkanen earned Most Improved Player honors and became an All-Star, establishing himself as a franchise cornerstone with the Utah Jazz. His success stood in stark contrast to his uneven development in Chicago, where his role often shifted, and consistency was elusive.
Wendell Carter Jr followed a similar trajectory. After being traded to the Orlando Magic, Carter became a reliable starter, posting career highs in points (15.0) and rebounds (10.5) while developing into a more versatile presence on both ends of the floor.
Even second-round picks have found success elsewhere. Daniel Gafford revitalized his career in Washington before being traded to the Dallas Mavericks in February 2024. There, Gafford played a critical role in Dallas’ run to the 2024 NBA Finals and set an NBA record with 33 consecutive made field goals, a level of impact he never reached with the Bulls.
More recently, Ayo Dosunmu was dealt to the Minnesota Timberwolves and quickly carved out a role on a championship-contending roster. Early returns showed Dosunmu averaging 14 points per game while shooting over 54 percent from the field, reinforcing the belief that he can contribute to winning basketball in the right environment.
The Bulls still have young pieces worth investing in, including Matas Buzelis, Patrick Williams, and Noa Essengue. Buzelis and Essengue, in particular, represent opportunities for the organization to break the cycle. Williams’ development remains more uncertain, largely due to a role that has yet to fully unlock his strengths.
Ultimately, the Bulls’ ongoing rebuild demands a stronger emphasis on player development. Chicago can no longer afford to watch its young talent thrive elsewhere while struggling to grow internally. Until the organization prioritizes a cohesive developmental system, the cycle risks repeating itself, and the rebuild may never truly move forward.