Jalen Smith has been identified as a potential trade candidate for the Chicago Bulls this season. The move is considered as the team looks ahead.
Smith is entering the final year of his contract with the Bulls. He is set to make $9.4 million this season. The team could look to get some value for him now rather than risk losing him for nothing in free agency next summer if they don't plan to re-sign him.
His contract is seen as very tradeable. It's large enough to help match salaries in a deal but expires next summer, so it doesn't commit long-term money to any acquiring team. This makes him a flexible asset for Chicago's front office.
Smith provides a specific skill set that is valuable in today's NBA. He is a stretch big man who shot 37.3 percent from three-point range last season. His ability to space the floor from the frontcourt is a major selling point for playoff teams.
For the Bulls last season, he averaged 10.2 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.2 assists in just 20.7 minutes per game. His efficiency and motor have been noted as strengths.
One team that has been mentioned as a potential landing spot is the Los Angeles Lakers. There are reportedly fans of Smith within the Lakers organization who appreciate his work ethic and development as an outside shooter.
However, his $9.5 million salary for this year and his size at 6-foot-8 are considered factors. The previous Bulls management was also a fan of his, which could complicate his actual availability on the trade market. If he is made available, the Lakers are expected to be among the teams monitoring the situation closely.
Expectations for the 2026-27 season are not particularly high. This could allow the Bulls to surprise people, or if things don't go well, pivot to clearing contracts. Trading a player like Smith on an expiring deal fits into either scenario, providing flexibility for the future. The team's full upcoming schedule can be found on our schedule page.
