The Chicago Bulls' 2026 first-round pick Dailyn Swain has struggled in the Vegas Summer League, averaging just 4.2 points on 12.9 percent shooting. This comes as the team enters a full rebuild, having lost their last three games including a 149-128 defeat to the Dallas Mavericks on April 13, 2026. Their recent form over the last five games is 2 wins and 3 losses.
How did Dailyn Swain perform in Summer League?
Swain, selected 15th overall, played 28 minutes per game across four contests. His stat line of 4.2 points, 5 rebounds, and 2.2 assists was underwhelming. The 12.9 percent field goal percentage is a major concern for a wing player. It's far too early to call him a bust, but the initial returns are not promising. Summer League is a small sample size, but players are expected to show flashes of their potential.
The Bulls are banking on young talent like Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis, and fourth overall pick Caleb Wilson. Swain was supposed to add to that core. His development is a key part of the team's long-term plan, which you can track on our [squad](/squad) page. For now, his play has opened the door for second-guessing the front office's decision.
Which players could the Bulls have drafted instead?
Three rookies selected shortly after Swain have shown more immediate promise. Bennett Stirtz went 16th overall to the Oklahoma City Thunder after a trade with Memphis. Stirtz, who will be 23 next season, led his Summer League team in scoring over three games. Sam Presti, the Thunder's GM, has a strong draft record, making this pick notable.
Allen Graves was taken 19th by the Toronto Raptors. He is a full year younger than Swain but plays with veteran savvy. His analytical profile and additive skills like defense and shooting might have fit better with Giddey and Buzelis. His floor appears higher, which is valuable for a rebuilding team needing reliable contributors.
Labaron Philon Jr. was a surprising faller to the 22nd pick. Draft analyst Ben Pfeifer had him ranked eighth on his board. Philon averaged 18.5 points and 5.8 assists in Summer League, though his efficiency was low. The argument is that if you're betting on upside, a player falling far below consensus like Philon represents a better gamble than taking Swain at his perceived value.
What does this mean for the Bulls' rebuild?
The Bulls' commitment to a rebuild is clear. They have two foundational pieces in Josh Giddey and the promising Caleb Wilson. The selection of Swain was a bet on his physical tools and potential ceiling. However, missing on a mid-first round pick can set a rebuild back. Resources are finite, and every draft choice carries significant weight.
Comparing Swain's start to the immediate impact of others highlights the risk involved. The team's recent 149-128 loss to Dallas shows the current roster still has major defensive issues. Integrating young players while remaining competitive is a tough balance. Fans can follow the team's progress in the [standings](/standings) as the season develops.
Ultimately, only time will tell if Dailyn Swain becomes a valuable NBA player. The Bulls are hoping his Summer League struggles are just a bump in the road. But if he doesn't pan out, the knowledge that Stirtz, Graves, and Philon were available will linger. The front office's evaluation process will be under scrutiny for years to come.
