The Chicago Bulls completed a significant roster overhaul on February 2, 2025, with the blockbuster trade of Zach LaVine to the Sacramento Kings as part of a three-team deal involving the San Antonio Spurs. To facilitate this transaction, the Bulls waived veterans Torrey Craig and Chris Duarte, marking the end of their respective tenures with the team.
LaVine, who had been with the Bulls since being drafted seventh overall in 2014, was sent to the Kings after extensive discussions spanning over a year to find the right trade opportunity. This major deal saw the Bulls not just lose their franchise player, LaVine, but also gain some promising assets. Chicago received Kevin Huerter from Sacramento, alongside Tre Jones and Zach Collins from the Spurs. Most significantly, the Bulls obtained their own first-round pick for 2025 from San Antonio, giving them additional flexibility going forward.
Los Angeles and Chicago's organizations reflected on LaVine's contributions over the years. Arturas Karnisovas, the Bulls' executive vice president of basketball operations, released a heartfelt statement acknowledging LaVine's growth as both a player and individual, praising his professionalism and dedication to the city and the franchise. “Zach has been a cornerstone for this organization and the city,” Karnisovas remarked, “His work ethic and passion for the game have been inspiring.”
To complete the deal, the Bulls' management decided to part ways with Craig and Duarte. The 34-year-old Craig had been struggling with injuries this season, appearing just nine times and averaging 6.9 points and 2.8 rebounds per game. His shooting performance had been decent when healthy—hitting 42.9 percent from three-point range—but he hasn’t been part of the team’s rotation since December 30 due to an ankle issue. With Craig nearing his return, he may now draw interest as a free agent, potentially attracting playoff-contending teams seeking his experience.
Following their decision to waive Craig, the Bulls then discharged Duarte, who has played 17 games this season, averaging just 4.4 minutes on the floor. Known as the 13th overall pick from the 2021 NBA Draft, Duarte had shown promise during his rookie season with the Indiana Pacers but had seen his time and production decrease significantly since then.
Bulls head coach Billy Donovan's focus has turned to integrating the new players acquired through the trade. The arrival of Huerter, Jones, and Collins should provide added depth to the Bulls' roster. Huerter, particularly, is expected to offer needed perimeter shooting, which the Bulls sorely lacked with LaVine gone.
Media reports suggest the Bulls will continue to explore other trade options, particularly for Jones and Huerter, as they look to capitalize on their newly acquired assets. There is also speculation about the possibility of moving other players on the roster, including star guard Lonzo Ball, to generate additional draft capital.
With the NBA trade deadline approaching, the Bulls are not just adjusting to recent changes but are also strategizing for long-term success. The franchise is hoping to build around its remaining core players, with aspirations for playoff contention next season.
The Bulls’ recent moves have been met with mixed reactions from fans. While some are sad to see LaVine leave, others are optimistic about the team's future direction after this notable shift. The franchise has taken steps to reshape its identity, leveraging new acquisitions to create fresh strategies going forward.
Notably, both Craig and Duarte are set to become unrestricted free agents this week, provided they are not claimed off waivers. Their situation highlights the ever-changing dynamics within the NBA, as organizations consistently seek the right balance of veteran experience and youthful energy.
While LaVine’s absence will be felt, the Bulls' front office appears committed to ensuring the franchise’s sustainable growth. With upcoming games, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how head coach Donovan adjusts his rotations and integrates the new players.