The Chicago Bulls are back in the gym weeks before the official start of training camp, with several key players already putting in work at the Advocate Center. This early activity comes as the team looks to establish a new identity.
Who is already working out in Chicago?
Social media buzzed this week with images of players back in the Bulls' facility. Josh Giddey, Tre Jones, Jalen Smith, Dailyn Swain, and Tobe Awaka were all spotted in workout gear. Giddey's presence is particularly encouraging after he underwent ankle surgery at the end of the regular season. The Bulls had stated he was expected to be ready for camp, but extra time on the court now is a positive sign for his recovery and offseason rhythm.
Rookies have been active all summer. First-round pick Caleb Wilson has been acclimating to Chicago, frequently seen in the gym and at local events. He reportedly scored over 60 points at the recent Macronomics Summit at Whitney M Young High School. Fellow rookie Matas Buzelis, a Chicago native, has also been in town, playing in the same Summit and teaming up with Wilson in a Pro-AM game. Building chemistry now could make Coach Tiago Splitter's job easier when camp officially opens.
What does the team's recent form tell us?
The Bulls' last official action was a high-scoring defeat. They fell 149-128 to Luka Doncic and the Dallas Mavericks to close the 2025-26 regular season. That loss capped a tough final stretch. This ending highlighted the inconsistencies the new front office, led by Bryson Graham, is now tasked with fixing. You can review the team's full schedule and results on our schedule page.
For a young squad with little continuity from last season, every early rep matters. Establishing a new style of play is a priority, and it starts with effort before the first official practice. The early arrivals suggest a commitment to turning the page from last season's finish.
Are the New York Knicks a potential trade partner?
Trade speculation continues to surround the rebuilding Bulls. Every player on the roster could be available as the front office evaluates its long-term pieces. A recent report from our colleagues at Knicks On SI, written by Isaiah De Los Santos, suggested Chicago could be a landing spot for a pair of New York Knicks reserves.
While no specific names or offers were detailed in the available source text, the logic is clear. The Bulls are in asset-accumulation mode and may take on contracts or players that fit a longer timeline. The Knicks, often looking to tweak a playoff-ready roster, might have expendable pieces. This kind of speculation is standard for a team in Chicago's position. The next few months will be a strict evaluation period, and trade calls are expected as Graham shapes the roster.
What's next for the Bulls?
The immediate next step is the official start of training camp, followed by preseason games. The Bulls are scheduled to open their preseason against the Phoenix Suns in about a month. The work happening now is informal, but it sets a tone. For players like Giddey, it's valuable rehab time. For rookies like Wilson and Buzelis, it's a chance to get comfortable with the NBA environment and each other.
All this activity points to a team eager to move forward. The early gym sessions are a positive first step in building the relationships and work ethic needed for a successful rebuild. Fans can track player profiles and team depth on our roster page as the new season approaches.
