The Chicago Bulls are banking on a new front office, a new head coach, and the No. 4 overall draft pick Caleb Wilson to reverse their fortunes after a 31-51 season and a fourth straight playoff miss.
What changes did the Bulls make this offseason?
The overhaul started at the top with the hiring of head of basketball operations Bryson Graham. Graham's first major decision was selecting former San Antonio Spurs assistant Tiago Splitter as the new head coach. Their most significant personnel move came in the NBA Draft, where they selected University of North Carolina standout Caleb Wilson with the fourth overall pick.
Wilson is projected to become the new face of the franchise. The Bulls also added veteran experience in the backcourt and frontcourt, signing guard Norman Powell and center Nic Claxton in free agency. These moves signal a clear shift in organizational direction, blending high-potential youth with proven NBA contributors.
How will the young core develop?
Chicago's future heavily depends on the growth of its young players. Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis, and Rob Dillingham all showed flashes last season but need to make significant leaps in consistency and production. The development timeline for these players, which you can track on our stats page, is now accelerated under the new regime.
Coach Splitter's task is to integrate these talents with the new additions. Powell brings scoring punch and perimeter defense, while Claxton offers rim protection and athleticism in the paint. The success of this mix will define the Bulls' season. Can Splitter's system maximize their collective potential?
What are the expectations for the 2026-27 season?
The immediate goal is clear: end the playoff drought. Finishing 31-51 last year left them well outside the Eastern Conference playoff picture.
A realistic target is competing for a spot in the NBA Play-In Tournament. Progress will be measured by the improvement of Giddey, Buzelis, and Dillingham, alongside Wilson's rookie adaptation. The veteran presence of Powell and Claxton should stabilize the rotation and provide leadership for a young locker room.
Can Caleb Wilson jump-start the franchise?
All eyes will be on the rookie. Drafting a player fourth overall carries immense expectation, and the Bulls are betting Wilson's talent can transform their offense. His ability to create shots, help, and defend will be tested from day one in the NBA.
The schedule ahead is challenging. Fans can check the upcoming matchups on our schedule page to see how the new-look Bulls stack up against the league's best. Internal growth from the existing young core is just as important as Wilson's arrival. If both happen, the Bulls could finally have the foundation for sustained success. The new leadership of Graham and Splitter has staked their reputations on this youth movement working.
