The Chicago Bulls are reportedly considering multiple notable additions in free agency this offseason. According to Marc Stein and Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, Jonathan Kuminga and Norman Powell are both on the Bulls' radar as potential free-agent signings, and they are also weighing the possibility of re-signing guard Anfernee Simons.
What's the latest on Jonathan Kuminga?
The 23-year-old Kuminga became an unrestricted free agent on Monday when the Atlanta Hawks declined his $24.3 million team option for the 2026-27 season.
Kuminga spent parts of his first five NBA seasons with the Golden State Warriors before getting dealt to the Hawks prior to the trade deadline last season. In 36 games split between the Warriors and Hawks, Kuminga averaged 12.2 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game.
How does Norman Powell fit in?
The Bulls are expected to have some competition when it comes to their potential pursuit of Kuminga, as Stein and Fischer reported that the Cleveland Cavaliers are a possible suitor thanks to head coach Kenny Atkinson's relationship with Kuminga dating back to his stint as an assistant coach with the Warriors. Stein and Fischer noted that Chicago has emerged as a "strong potential landing spot" for Powell as well, dating back to the Detroit Pistons' decision to acquire Isaiah Joe in a trade with the Oklahoma City Thunder, which perhaps takes them out of the running for Powell.
| Player | Team | Points per Game |
|---|---|---|
| Norman Powell | Miami Heat | 21.7 |
What comes next for the Bulls?
If the Bulls do sign Powell, it is expected to be a "short-term, balloon-style deal," per Stein and Fischer. Powell, 33, spent last season with the Miami Heat after previous stints as a member of the Toronto Raptors, Portland Trail Blazers and Los Angeles Clippers.
The Bulls are coming off a 31-51 campaign, and they have missed the playoffs in each of the past four seasons, and eight of the past nine. However, there is reason for optimism thanks to a young, talented core led by Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis and 2026 No. 4 overall draft pick Caleb Wilson. Last result: Chicago Bulls 116-111 Milwaukee Bucks (2024-12-29). Recent form (last 5): 2W-0D-3L (WLLWL, most recent first).
