In the NBA Draft Lottery 2025, held on the evening of Monday, May 12, 2025, the Chicago Bulls stunned fans by officially securing the No. 12 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. With just a 1.7% chance of landing in the top 4 and an 85% likelihood of retaining the No. 12 spot, the Bulls held their position in a draft class widely regarded as brimming with potential, offering a prime opportunity to reshape the team’s future.
A Challenging Season
The 2024-25 season marked a clear rebuilding phase for the Chicago Bulls following the departure of key players like Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, and Alex Caruso. Finishing the season with a 39-43 record, the Bulls landed at the No. 12 spot in the lottery standings—missing the playoffs but not low enough to secure a higher draft pick.
Despite the odds, retaining the No. 12 pick is a noteworthy outcome, especially as the Bulls had hoped for a leap into the top 4 to select elite talents like Cooper Flagg (Duke) or Dylan Harper (Rutgers). While that dream didn’t materialize, the No. 12 pick still provides a chance to add a critical piece to their youthful roster.
Opportunities in the 2025 NBA Draft
The 2025 NBA Draft is considered one of the strongest in recent years, particularly at the top, with a wealth of promising young talent. After selecting Matas Buzelis—a highly promising forward—with the No. 11 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, the Bulls now have another opportunity to bolster their future core.
Analysts project that the Bulls could target players like center Khaman Maluach (Duke) or guard Jeremiah Fears (Oklahoma) at No. 12. Maluach, standing at 7 feet 2 with impressive defensive skills, could address the Bulls’ need at center, especially as they consider moving on from Nikola Vucevic. Meanwhile, Fears offers potential as a dynamic point guard with strong playmaking and scoring abilities.
Bulls’ Strategy: Rebuild or Roll the Dice?
Securing the No. 12 pick poses a strategic dilemma for the Bulls’ front office, led by Executive Vice President Arturas Karnisovas. Some argue the Bulls should focus on developing young talents like Buzelis, Josh Giddey, and Coby White rather than chasing immediate contention in the upcoming season. However, others criticize Karnisovas for not fully committing to a tanking strategy that could have landed a top-tier prospect like Flagg.
Still, with a young and versatile roster, the Bulls can use this draft to add a player who fits the fast-paced, dynamic basketball philosophy of head coach Billy Donovan. The NBA Draft Combine, scheduled for May 11-18, 2025, will give the Bulls a chance to closely evaluate prospects before making their final decision.
A Bright Future Ahead
While falling short of a higher pick, the No. 12 selection remains a valuable opportunity for the Chicago Bulls to continue their rebuild. With the 2025 NBA Draft set to take place over two days, starting at 7 p.m. CT on June 25 and 26, 2025, Bulls fans are eagerly awaiting the team’s next move to shape its future.
Can the Bulls uncover another gem like Matas Buzelis? The answer will unfold in the coming months as the draft approaches. Stay tuned!