The Chicago Bulls have made their first major moves of NBA free agency, signing guard Norman Powell to a two-year, $45 million contract and extending center Zach Collins. Last result: Dallas Mavericks 149-128 Chicago Bulls (2026-04-13).
What happened with Norman Powell?
Norman Powell joins the Chicago Bulls on a two-year deal worth a reported $45 million, with a team option for the second year. The 33-year-old guard, a first-time All-Star last season, averaged 21.7 points per game for the Miami Heat while shooting 38% from three-point range. His career 39.6% three-point shooting addresses a critical need for a Bulls team lacking perimeter depth.
Why does Zach Collins’ extension matter?
Zach Collins, acquired at the 2025 trade deadline, has signed an extension despite playing only 38 games for the Bulls due to injuries. A defensive anchor in the paint, Collins provides physicality but has struggled with durability, appearing in just 10 games last season after toe surgery. His presence solidifies a center rotation that also includes Jalen Smith and Nic Claxton.
What’s next for the Chicago Bulls?
The Bulls exercised Leonard Miller’s $2.4 million team option, retaining the versatile forward who averaged 11.7 points and 5.8 rebounds after joining midseason. With 13 players under contract and $23 million in remaining cap space, the roster remains largely unchanged despite expectations of a rebuild. Recent form (last 5): 1W-0D-4L (LLLLW), with four straight losses to close the 2025-26 campaign.
The Bulls passed on pursuing stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo or Ja Morant, opting instead for targeted additions to support young prospects such as Caleb Wilson.
