The Chicago Bulls have been stuck in mediocrity for quite some time. Heading into the 2026 NBA offseason, they are hoping to change that.
Already, the team has made an aggressive decision. They decided to move on from head coach Billy Donovan heading into the offseason. The hope is that they can bring in an upgrade on the sidelines.
While the head coaching position could be upgraded, the roster badly needs help as well. Keeping that in mind, the Bulls are expected to have an aggressive approach to the offseason.
Chicago has quite a few needs entering the offseason. Another scorer would be a welcome additions, but the Bulls could also use help in the front-court. There are a few players who have been mentioned as possible free agency targets.
One of those players is none other than Los Angeles Lakers star guard Austin Reaves, who is set to hit free agency this offseason. He is expected to re-sign on a massive deal with the Lakers, but a team like Chicago could try to swoop in and steal him away.
Bulls Once Again Connected as Potential Austin Reaves Suitor
Bleacher Report’s Grant Hughes said that he believes the Bulls are going to be among the Reaves suitors when free agency opens up. However, he did warn teams interested in signing the dynamic guard as well.
“Potential suitors will include the Brooklyn Nets, Chicago Bulls and Reaves’ own Los Angeles Lakers,” Hughes wrote. “All three should be wary of viewing this year’s 51-game sample as a production baseline going forward.”
Hughes makes a great point. Reaves put together a career season from a scoring perspective this season in 51 games. His value has certainly risen from the performance.
That being said, teams should not expect that Reaves could leave his current role with Los Angeles and simply replicate his success with another team as a No. 1 option. He played the 2025-26 NBA season alongside of Luka Doncic and LeBron James, which took a lot of pressure off of his shoulders.
What Would It Take for Chicago to Sign Austin Reaves?
The Lakers have a leg up on the competition when it comes to offering Reaves big money. They can sign him to a deal worth up to $241 million over the course of five years.
Jovan Buha of Buha’s Block has predicted that the Lakers will re-sign Reaves on a $210 million deal over five years.
What could the Bulls offer Reaves if they want to pursue him? The max Chicago could offer would be a four-year contract worth $179 million.
Clearly, the expectation is that Reaves will remain where he’s at. But, if Los Angeles chooses to explore other options, the Bulls could be a team to watch.
Bulls Emerge in Austin Reaves Rumors Ahead of Free Agency