The Chicago Bulls have reportedly been named one of the most active teams in the trade market before this season’s deadline. With over five expiring contracts on the roster, another campaign tracking to miss the postseason, and far from contention, many believe this could be the year they finally blow it all up. This would mean Coby White and Nikola Vucevic are two of the sure-fire departures. While there are more expiring contracts than just those two, Arturas Karnisovas should proceed with caution when dangling this specific player in any potential trade talks.
Ayo Dosunmu Needs To Stay Put
Barring a trade for a certified superstar, the Chicago Bulls should not trade away Ayo Dosunmu. He is on an expiring contract and has been one of the most commonly mentioned potential trade assets, but they should reject any offers for his services. In comparison to his counterpart, White, it’s been made extremely evident this season that he fits the future core better. The Bulls plan to build around Josh Giddey and Matas Buzelis, meaning the point guard spot, White’s preferred position, is occupied. Giddey’s weak defense cannot be paired with the undersized former Tar Heel guard, so a long-term place for the 2019 seventh overall selection does not exist.
The Timberwolves are showing interest in Coby White, Ayo Dosunmu, and Tre Jones, per @JCowleyHoops
“Another trade partner for the Bulls to keep an eye on is the Timberwolves. They have star guard Anthony Edwards and his supporting cast of center Rudy Gobert and forwards Julius… pic.twitter.com/tCjTIGwLpS
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) January 21, 2026
Dosunmu has proven to be the more efficient scorer, the better defender, with expanded versatility, and a more fluid fit alongside Giddey and Buzelis. His size, athleticism, and ability to remain efficient despite fewer shot attempts per game are irreplaceable qualities to retain going forward.
Dosunmu Is Also Cheaper
In his fifth season, Dosunmu is averaging career highs across the board, with his scoring totals and efficiency figures ranking among the best of his NBA career. While averaging the fewest minutes per game at the professional level, he’s averaging the most points he’s ever scored, with the best field-goal and three-point shooting clips. As Karnisovas alluded to in preseason media sessions, this season was a prove-it year for many assets, about determining who deserved commitment and who needed to be shown the door. Dosunmu has emphatically made his case for sticking around for many years to come. Without the inflated career totals, scoring figures, or accolades that his running mate, White, owns, the next contract will also undoubtedly be less expensive.
Should the Bulls prioritize keeping Ayo Dosunmu, Bulls Nation?
🗣️ @Will_Gottlieb on Ayo's recent play:
"He's really in tune with what the team needs from him." pic.twitter.com/RmbjdMsQUN
— CHGO Bulls (@CHGO_Bulls) January 20, 2026
