The Chicago Bulls are heading into a pivotal offseason with critical decisions shaping the team’s future. After parting ways with star Zach LaVine, the Bulls have opened opportunities for younger players to step up, with 2022 first-round pick Dalen Terry among those in the spotlight. However, according to a recent prediction from Bleacher Report, the Bulls are unlikely to extend a contract to the 22-year-old, a move that has stunned fans.
Dalen Terry’s Journey with the Chicago Bulls
Selected 18th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft, Dalen Terry has spent three seasons with the Bulls. In the 2024-25 season, he posted career-high averages of 13.5 minutes per game, contributing 4.5 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 1.3 assists. While these numbers are modest, Terry has shown promise with his energy, defensive versatility, and hustle on the court. The Bulls’ decision to give him increased playing time amid a youth movement was seen as a positive sign.
However, Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus suggests the Bulls are unlikely to extend Terry’s contract before the deadline ahead of the 2025-26 season. This would make Terry a restricted free agent in 2026, allowing the Bulls to match any offer he receives from other teams but raising questions about their long-term commitment to him.
Why the Bulls May Not Extend Terry
This decision may stem from the Bulls’ long-term strategy as they focus on building around a young core featuring Josh Giddey, Coby White, and Matas Buzelis. With Giddey approaching restricted free agency and White’s contract expiring in 2026, the Bulls must carefully manage their salary cap to retain these key pieces. Not extending Terry could be a way to maintain financial flexibility, especially with Nikola Vucevic entering the final year of his $60 million deal.
Additionally, Terry’s performance has yet to fully meet the expectations of a first-round pick. While he shows potential, his consistency and ability to make a significant impact remain areas for improvement. With the Bulls eyeing transformative talent in the 2025 NBA Draft, they may prioritize resources for new prospects over banking on Terry’s long-term development.
Impact on the Bulls’ Strategy
The decision not to extend Terry aligns with the Bulls’ broader plan to reshape their roster, which has faced criticism for its lack of direction in recent years. After three consecutive seasons stuck in the Play-In Tournament without advancing to the playoffs, executive Artūras Karnišovas faces mounting pressure to steer the franchise out of mediocrity.
The Bulls currently hold the 12th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, with a slim 1.7% chance of landing the No. 1 pick and a talent like Cooper Flagg. Analysts predict the Bulls will focus on finding a long-term center to replace Vucevic, with names like Khaman Maluach in the conversation. The team may also consider trading their pick to acquire additional draft assets or target defensive standouts like Adou Thiero.
Letting Terry go could signal the Bulls’ readiness to give other young players, such as Buzelis or incoming rookies, a chance to shine. However, it also carries the risk that Terry could flourish elsewhere if the Bulls fail to maximize his potential in his remaining time with the team.
Fan Reactions and Future Outlook
The news that the Bulls may not extend Terry has sparked mixed reactions on platforms like X. Some fans argue the team should remain patient with Terry, given his youth and fit within the fast-paced, attacking style that coach Billy Donovan is building. Others support the decision, believing the Bulls need players who can make an immediate impact to compete in the upcoming season.
Regardless of the outcome, the summer of 2025 will be a defining moment for the Bulls to reshape their roster and regain fan confidence. With a promising young core and a valuable draft pick, the team has a chance to make a significant leap, but only if they make the right moves. The decision not to extend Dalen Terry, while shocking, may be a strategic step toward building a competitive roster for the future.