The Chicago Bulls have their backcourt and wings shaping up for the future. Josh Giddey just signed a four-year, $100 million deal. Matas Buzelis looks poised for a second-year leap. And Coby White is entering a contract year with plenty to prove.
But the frontcourt remains a question mark. That is why FanSided’s Andrew Hanlon recently floated Walker Kessler as a dream target for Chicago. With the 24-year-old expected to hit restricted free agency next summer, the Bulls could be in prime position to make a run.
“The Utah Jazz and Walker Kessler will not reach an agreement on a rookie-scale contract extension, league sources tell The Athletic, which
Why Kessler Fits the Bulls’ Needs
At nearly seven feet with a 7’6” wingspan, Kessler already has the profile of a defensive anchor. He has averaged 2.4 blocks per game across his first three NBA seasons. Pair that with 11.1 points and 12.2 rebounds per game last season, and you see why he is viewed as one of the league’s best young rim protectors.
For the Bulls, the fit is obvious. With Giddey orchestrating the offense, White providing scoring punch, and Buzelis bringing size and versatility on the wing, Kessler would round out the group as the paint protector and rebounder who ties it all together. His presence would give Chicago’s core a natural balance on both ends of the floor.
The Vucevic Question for Bulls
Nikola Vucevic has been reliable, but at nearly 35 years old, he is no longer the long-term answer and is likely on his way out of Chicago. Zach Collins is best suited as a backup, and young bigs like Jalen Smith and Lachlan Olbrich project more as depth than foundational pieces.
Kessler would immediately raise Chicago’s ceiling. He is not a finished product offensively, but his ability to protect the rim and rebound at an elite level would allow the Bulls’ perimeter players to thrive.
Why the Timing Works for Bulls
Per The Athletic’s Tony Jones, Utah and Kessler failed to agree on a rookie-scale extension, meaning he will enter restricted free agency in 2026. That timing lines up perfectly for the Bulls, who are projected to have more cap space than any other team in the league.
Restricted free agency is always tricky, but Chicago would have the financial muscle to test Utah’s resolve. After going through a tense negotiation with Giddey this summer, the front office knows how messy it can get. This time, though, they will be the ones holding leverage.
What’s Next
Kessler remains in Utah for now, but his future is uncertain. If he does hit the market next summer, the Bulls will have both the need and the resources to make their pitch.
Hanlon’s idea may feel ambitious, but it is one that makes sense. Chicago has cap space, a developing young core, and a glaring hole in the middle. Kessler could be the kind of signing that changes the direction of the franchise.
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