Inconsistency continues to plague the Chicago Bulls as they fight to stay alive in the Eastern Conference play-in race. With the NBA trade deadline fast approaching, Chicago may have one final opportunity to reshape its roster before the postseason. According to one NBA insider, that move could involve taking a gamble on a former No. 1 overall pick from a struggling Western Conference team.
Bulls Predicted To Trade For Former No. 1 Overall Pick
The Bulls, despite their efforts throughout the past few seasons, have struggled to make a lasting impact. They made the playoffs last in 2022, losing 1-4 in the opening round to the Milwaukee Bucks.
What they can’t ignore, however, is the glaring need for a talent that can propel them to the front. While a young roster is excellent for carrying the team forward and building around, a talent upgrade is long overdue.
According to NBA insider Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, the Bulls could emerge as a potential suitor for New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson, a two-time All-Star whose future with the franchise remains uncertain.
“They have assets and expiring deals to really get involved wherever they want at this trade deadline. Keep a close eye on them, maybe pursuing Zion Williamson from the Pelicans,” Siegel said. “I’ve heard that there’s been some smoke there about Chicago scouting New Orleans in recent weeks, and Zion would be the ideal buy-low candidate for a team like the Bulls, who have a lot of expiring contracts.”
The Bulls are in desperate need of high-end talent, and Williamson, once one of the most highly touted prospects in NBA history, fits that need. While his injury history remains a concern, having appeared in more than 30 games only twice in seven seasons, the 25-year-old has been relatively healthy this year, and his talent remains undeniable.
Sitting dead last in the Western Conference at 8–31, the Pelicans may benefit from a change of scenery for their former franchise cornerstone. Sports Illustrated’s Ryan Shea recently outlined a mock trade between Chicago and New Orleans, proposing the following framework:
Bulls Receive: Zion Williamson
Pelicans Receive: Patrick Williams, Zach Collins, 2026 1st round pick, 2027 1st round pick, 2028 first-round pick, and 2028 second-round pick.
Williamson would instantly become the Bulls’ primary offensive option and the game-changing presence they desperately need for a playoff push. In return, the Pelicans would acquire multiple future assets along with two young players who have yet to fully realize their potential, a significant return for a team in the middle of a rebuild.
New Orleans is also reportedly open to listening to offers for Trey Murphy III, although his price would likely be significantly higher. For Chicago, a buy-low opportunity like Williamson makes more sense, especially given his current contract situation.
Williamson is in the third year of a five-year, $197.2 million deal, and through 23 games this season, he is averaging 22.4 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, while shooting 56.2% from the field.
