Bulls Rumors: Analyst Suggests Coby White Trade to Houston Rockets Could Be a “Win-Win”
The Chicago Bulls may be poised to make a significant roster move ahead of the 2025-26 NBA season, with speculation mounting around the potential trade of star guard Coby White. A recent column by Joe Cowley of The Chicago Sun-Times details a possible deal sending White to the Houston Rockets, a move Cowley believes could benefit both franchises.
The impetus for a potential trade stems from the Rockets’ need for a reliable guard following a season-ending injury to Fred VanVleet. According to Cowley, finding a suitable replacement for VanVleet is a top priority for Houston, and White appears to be a “perfect” fit. “Because of Houston’s payroll and the dried up free-agent market, a trade is the only real solution, and the Bulls just happened to have a player that fits the VanVleet role perfectly, and maybe even better. Enter Coby White,” Cowley wrote.
Adding fuel to the fire is Chicago’s own crowded backcourt. White, currently in the final year of his contract and reportedly unwilling to sign an extension before hitting free agency next summer, finds himself in a situation where his role could diminish. Cowley notes that White has “informed the team several times that he would not be taking an extension until he hits free agency next summer.”
The Bulls recently extended Josh Giddey with a four-year, $100 million contract, re-signed Tre Jones, and still have Ayo Dosunmu and Dalen Terry on the roster. With Kevin Huerter also in the final year of his deal, the team has a surplus of guards. “The Bulls extended Josh Giddey for four years, $100 million several weeks ago, re-signed Tre Jones, still have Ayo Dosunmu, and aren’t sure what Dalen Terry is exactly,” Cowley explained. “Factor in Kevin Huerter in the final year of his contract, and plenty of guards to go around.”
Cowley even proposed a specific trade package: White to the Rockets in exchange for Reed Sheppard and Tari Eason. He characterized this arrangement as a “win-win for both teams.” The reporter believes this trade would address Houston’s immediate need at guard while providing Chicago with promising young talent.
Despite the speculation, it remains to be seen if the Bulls will ultimately move White. Last season, the guard enjoyed a career year, averaging 20.4 points on 45.3% shooting from the field and 37% from three-point range. The Bulls will open their 2025-26 season on October 22nd against the Detroit Pistons, and the composition of their roster by then remains a key storyline for fans to watch.
