The Chicago Bulls are exploring a potential trade to reunite Josh Giddey with former Oklahoma City Thunder teammate Lugentz Dort. Executive Bryson Graham's connections with the Atlanta Hawks could facilitate a deal as the Bulls look to shape their future backcourt. The team's recent struggles, including a 149-128 loss to the Dallas Mavericks on April 13, 2026, and a recent form of 2 wins and 3 losses in their last five games, highlight the need for roster changes.
Why would the Bulls target Lu Dort?
Lugentz Dort is a defensive-minded guard who spent three seasons with Josh Giddey in Oklahoma City. That existing chemistry is a major draw for a Bulls team figuring out its long-term backcourt plans. Giddey has three seasons left on his current contract, which pays him around $25 million annually. Adding Dort could provide stability and a known partner for Giddey as the front office builds around young wings like Caleb Wilson and Matas Buzelis. The Hawks acquired Dort in a trade during the 2026 offseason, but their playoff-caliber situation contrasts sharply with Chicago's rebuild.
How does Bryson Graham's history factor in?
Bryson Graham, the Bulls' lead front-office executive, worked for the Atlanta Hawks just last offseason. He was hired as their senior vice president of basketball operations for the 2025-26 season. That familiarity with the Hawks' organization and decision-makers could make trade conversations smoother. Graham's opportunity is to leverage those relationships to address a clear need on the Bulls' roster. Identifying and acquiring players who fit a specific vision is a key part of any executive's job during a rebuild.
What is the current state of the Bulls' rebuild?
The Bulls are at the beginning of a full-scale roster reconstruction. Their 149-128 defeat to Dallas and a three-game losing streak before two recent wins underscore the inconsistent performance. You can track their progress and upcoming challenges on our [fixtures](/fixtures) page. The core of the rebuild appears to be the developing wing tandem of Caleb Wilson and Matas Buzelis. Finding the right backcourt players to support their growth is the next logical step. A trade for Dort would be a move aimed at solving that puzzle with a player who has proven defensive tenacity.
What comes next for Chicago?
The front office must decide soon on the long-term starting backcourt to pair with their young wings. Trade discussions with Atlanta, if they happen, would likely focus on what assets the Bulls are willing to part with for Dort. His contract and fit alongside Giddey will be heavily scrutinized. Every move is made with an eye on the future, as the team aims to climb from the ground floor. For now, fans can monitor the latest roster developments and player stats on our [squad](/squad) and [stats](/stats) pages as the offseason narrative unfolds.
