Bulls Have BIG Decisions Coming On Rob Dillingham & Noa Essengue

The Chicago Bulls’ starting lineup may look fairly clear, but who actually finishes games when the score gets tight? 👀🐂On today’s episode of Locked On Bulls, Haize and Pat The Designer predict Tiago Splitter’s closing rotation for the 2026-27 NBA season. The projected starters — Josh Giddey, Norman Powell, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, and Nic Claxton — give Chicago size, athleticism, scoring and defense, but the best five players to start a game may not always be the best five to finish one.The guys break down different late-game situations. Does Nic Claxton stay on the floor when Chicago desperately needs shooting? Could Jalen Smith close because of his ability to stretch the floor? Does Isaac Okoro enter when the Bulls need one stop? Could Rob Dillingham become the offensive wildcard when the half-court offense stalls? And will rookie Caleb Wilson earn immediate closing minutes?Haize and Pat also discuss whether the Bulls should be closely monitoring the Jalen Duren situation with the Detroit Pistons. Duren's combination of youth, athleticism, rebounding and interior scoring makes him an intriguing player to watch if his long-term future in Detroit ever becomes uncertain. The question for Chicago is whether a player like Duren would be worth pursuing given the Bulls' existing investment in Claxton and their developing frontcourt.Plus, the guys reveal their Bulls All Short-Leash Team, featuring Rob Dillingham, Patrick Williams and Noa Essengue. All three have talent, but each enters the season with something major to prove.Can Dillingham show enough defensively to earn consistent minutes? Can Patrick Williams finally deliver the aggression and consistency Bulls fans have waited years to see? And can Essengue prove he's ready for NBA minutes instead of spending most of the year developing in the G League?Topics Include:Predicting the Bulls' 2026-27 closing fiveWho Tiago Splitter should trust late in gamesOffensive vs. defensive closing lineupsCaleb Wilson's chances of closing games as a rookieRob Dillingham's potential late-game roleShould the Bulls monitor Jalen Duren?How Duren would fit Chicago's young coreBulls All Short-Leash TeamPatrick Williams' pressure entering the seasonNoa Essengue's development timelineBulls training camp rotation battlesThe Bulls suddenly have enough depth that Tiago Splitter will have real choices to make. That's a good problem — but it also means players who struggle early may quickly find themselves outside the rotation.🎙️ Tune in to Locked On Bulls as Haize and Pat predict Chicago's closing lineup, discuss why Jalen Duren should remain on the Bulls' radar, and reveal which players enter the season on the shortest leash.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.Cozy EarthHead to https://cozyearth.com and use my code LOCKEDON for an exclusive 20%.WayfairPatio season is here and these deals won’t last! Head to https://wayfair.com right now to get your outdoor space ready for way less. Wayfair. Every style. Every home.OdooGreat organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.SquareGet up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/NBA ! #squarepodFanDuelThis season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM  to get started.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Chicago Bulls are getting closer to real basketball, and three major storylines could shape the 2026-27 season: the Josh Giddey–Nic Claxton partnership, Matas Buzelis’ future contract, and preseason finally being just a little over two weeks away. 👀🐂On today’s episode of Locked On Bulls, Haize and Pat The Designer break down just how important the Josh Giddey and Nic Claxton duo could be for Chicago this season. Giddey’s passing, rebounding, pace, and ability to create advantages could pair perfectly with Claxton’s rim running, screening, athleticism, lob threat, and defensive impact.The question is whether that chemistry can become one of the foundations of Tiago Splitter’s offense.Can Giddey consistently create easy looks for Claxton in pick-and-roll situations? Can Claxton help Giddey by giving him a reliable vertical target? And can their connection help Chicago create easier offense when the half-court spacing gets tight?Haize and Pat also dive into Matas Buzelis’ eventual contract extension and what his next deal could look like if his development continues. With Matas entering a critical season for his long-term trajectory, the guys discuss what kind of production, efficiency, defensive growth, and overall impact could determine how much Chicago may ultimately have to invest in him.Plus, Bulls preseason basketball is now a little over two weeks away, which means fans are finally getting close to seeing this new-look roster on the floor. What should Bulls fans be watching first? How will Tiago Splitter handle the rotation? Who wins the final bench spots? How do Giddey, Claxton, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, Norman Powell, and the rest of the roster fit together in actual game action?Topics Include:How important the Josh Giddey and Nic Claxton duo will beGiddey–Claxton pick-and-roll chemistryCan Claxton help unlock Chicago’s half-court offense?Predicting Matas Buzelis’ future Bulls extensionWhat Matas needs to prove before his next contractHow high Buzelis’ value could climbBulls preseason just over two weeks awayBiggest preseason questions for Tiago SplitterRotation battles to watchBulls 2026-27 season expectationsThe Bulls have plenty of young talent, but chemistry will determine how quickly it all comes together. If Giddey and Claxton become a real two-man weapon and Matas takes another major step, Chicago’s long-term picture starts looking a lot more interesting.🎙️ Tune in to Locked On Bulls as Haize and Pat break down the importance of Josh Giddey and Nic Claxton, predict Matas Buzelis’ next contract, and look ahead to Bulls preseason basketball.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.Cozy EarthHead to https://cozyearth.com and use my code LOCKEDON for an exclusive 20%.WayfairPatio season is here and these deals won’t last! Head to https://wayfair.com right now to get your outdoor space ready for way less. Wayfair. Every style. Every home.OdooGreat organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.SquareGet up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/NBA ! #squarepodFanDuelThis season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM  to get started.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Chicago Bulls have some important roster decisions coming before the October 31 contract-option deadline — and Rob Dillingham and Noa Essengue are right in the middle of them. 👀🐂On today’s episode of Locked On Bulls, Haize and Pat The Designer break down what Chicago should do with Rob Dillingham’s fourth-year option and Noa Essengue’s third-year option. Both players still have upside, but both also have questions surrounding role, development, consistency, and how they fit into Bryson Graham and Tiago Splitter’s long-term vision.The guys debate whether Dillingham has shown enough scoring ability and offensive upside to justify another year of investment, and whether Essengue’s tools, size, defense, and long-term ceiling are enough for Chicago to stay patient despite a potentially longer developmental timeline.Then the conversation shifts to a fun roster-building exercise: which Bulls would be protected in an NBA expansion draft? If Chicago had to choose its core, who would make the cut?Would Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, Nic Claxton, Norman Powell, Dailyn Swain, Rob Dillingham, Noa Essengue, Patrick Williams, Isaac Okoro, and others all be safe? Or would an expansion draft expose just how complicated some of the Bulls’ roster decisions really are?Plus, Haize and Pat celebrate Phil Jackson’s 81st birthday and reflect on his place in Bulls history. Six championships, two three-peats, Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, and one of the greatest dynasties the NBA has ever seen — how much credit should Jackson receive for turning elite talent into a historic team?Topics Include:Rob Dillingham’s fourth-year contract optionNoa Essengue’s third-year contract optionBulls’ October 31 deadline decisionsWhat Dillingham must prove before the deadlineWhether Chicago should stay patient with EssengueWhich Bulls would be protected in an expansion draftWho Chicago could afford to exposeBulls core hierarchy entering 2026-27Phil Jackson’s 81st birthdayPhil Jackson’s legacy with the Chicago BullsThe Bulls are still figuring out which young players truly belong in the long-term plan, and the upcoming option deadline is another important checkpoint. Add in the expansion draft exercise, and it becomes clear which players Chicago really views as foundational.🎙️ Tune in to Locked On Bulls as Haize and Pat break down the futures of Rob Dillingham and Noa Essengue, build their Bulls expansion-draft protection lists, and celebrate Phil Jackson’s 81st birthday.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.BetterhelpThis episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Sign up and get 10% off at https://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA.Aura CybersecurityStart your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware.  Protect yourself now.SquareGet up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/NBA ! #squarepodFanDuelMake this Your Most Rewarding Season Ever with FanDuel. Get $350 in Bonus Bets — GUARANTEED — when you bet five dollars every day for seven days.  Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COMFANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Chicago Bulls have committed heavily to youth — but ESPN still ranks their long-term future near the bottom of the NBA. So which view of this franchise is closer to reality? 👀🐂On today’s episode of Locked On Bulls, Haize and Pat The Designer break down Chicago entering the 2026-27 season with the 7th-youngest roster in the NBA and the league’s 3rd-youngest coaching staff. The Bulls are not simply developing young players anymore; they are putting a young roster in the hands of a young coaching group led by Tiago Splitter.That creates an interesting question: is all this youth an advantage, or could it create growing pains on both sides?With Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, Dailyn Swain, Noa Essengue, Rob Dillingham, Jaylin Sellers, Leonard Miller, and other developmental pieces in the organization, Chicago has plenty of upside. But the challenge for Splitter and his staff will be turning potential into actual NBA production while still trying to establish a winning culture.Haize and Pat also react to ESPN ranking the Bulls 27th in its NBA Future Power Rankings. How can a franchise with multiple young prospects, improved roster flexibility, and a completely revamped basketball operation still grade so poorly for the future? Are there legitimate concerns about star power, draft assets, and proven talent — or is Chicago’s young core being underrated?Plus, the guys discuss Caleb Wilson working out with LeBron James ahead of his rookie season. Wilson has already received plenty of national attention, but getting offseason work alongside one of basketball’s most accomplished players creates another fascinating development opportunity. What can Caleb take from LeBron when it comes to preparation, physicality, decision-making, and approaching the game professionally?Topics Include:Bulls have the NBA’s 7th-youngest rosterChicago has the 3rd-youngest coaching staffTiago Splitter’s challenge developing a young rosterESPN ranks the Bulls 27th in Future Power RankingsIs Chicago’s future really among the NBA’s worst?Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis and Caleb Wilson as core piecesBulls’ biggest long-term strengths and weaknessesCaleb Wilson working out with LeBron JamesWhat Wilson can learn from a future Hall of FamerBulls development expectations entering 2026-27The Bulls have made youth and development central to their new direction. Now they have to prove that having young talent is different from having good young talent — and that Tiago Splitter’s staff can turn those prospects into the foundation of the next competitive Bulls team.🎙️ Tune in to Locked On Bulls as Haize and Pat debate Chicago’s youth movement, ESPN ranking the Bulls’ future 27th, and what Caleb Wilson can gain from working with LeBron James.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.BetterhelpThis episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Sign up and get 10% off at https://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA.Aura CybersecurityStart your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware.  Protect yourself now.SquareGet up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/NBA ! #squarepodFanDuelMake this Your Most Rewarding Season Ever with FanDuel. Get $350 in Bonus Bets — GUARANTEED — when you bet five dollars every day for seven days.  Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COMFANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Chicago Bulls’ young frontcourt is getting national attention, and Bulls fans may have a real reason to be excited. 👀🐂On today’s episode of Locked On Bulls, Haize and Pat The Designer react to Caleb Wilson and Matas Buzelis both ranking inside HoopsHype’s top 20 power forwards for the 2026-27 NBA season, with Wilson listed at No. 15 and Buzelis at No. 20. That ranking creates a major question for Bulls fans: are Caleb and Matas already being viewed as the future foundation of Chicago basketball, or is the hype moving faster than the development curve?The guys break down what the recognition means for both players. Caleb Wilson enters his rookie year with major expectations after being drafted No. 4, while Matas Buzelis is looking to build on his second-year leap and prove he can become one of the Bulls’ most important two-way players. If both forwards hit, Chicago’s rebuild could have a much stronger foundation than national rankings usually suggest.Haize and Pat also discuss Jaylin Sellers explaining his NBA journey and why his story matters. Sellers signed a two-way contract with the Bulls after going undrafted, and his scoring ability, toughness, and confidence could make him one of the more interesting underdog stories entering training camp.Plus, the guys lay out the best-case and worst-case scenarios for the Bulls’ 2026-27 season. What happens if Josh Giddey takes a leap, Matas becomes a true two-way force, Caleb contributes early, Nic Claxton anchors the defense, Norman Powell stabilizes the offense, and the bench finds real scoring? And on the other side, what happens if the shooting issues, half-court offense, rookie growing pains, and rotation questions hold this team back?Topics Include:Caleb Wilson ranked among HoopsHype’s top 20 power forwardsMatas Buzelis ranked among HoopsHype’s top 20 power forwardsAre Caleb and Matas the Bulls’ frontcourt foundation?What Caleb Wilson can prove as a rookieMatas Buzelis’ Year 3 expectationsJaylin Sellers’ NBA journeyCan Sellers become a real Bulls impact player?Best-case scenario for the Bulls seasonWorst-case scenario for the Bulls seasonBulls 2026-27 expectations before training campThe Bulls still have major questions, but the Caleb Wilson and Matas Buzelis hype is no longer just a local conversation. If those two become legitimate building blocks and Jaylin Sellers gives Chicago unexpected bench production, the Bulls’ best-case scenario becomes a lot more interesting.🎙️ Tune in to Locked On Bulls as Haize and Pat break down Caleb Wilson and Matas Buzelis earning top-20 power forward recognition, Jaylin Sellers’ NBA journey, and the best and worst-case outcomes for the Bulls season.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.BetterhelpThis episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Sign up and get 10% off at https://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA.Aura CybersecurityStart your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware.  Protect yourself now.SquareGet up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/NBA ! #squarepodFanDuelMake this Your Most Rewarding Season Ever with FanDuel. Get $350 in Bonus Bets — GUARANTEED — when you bet five dollars every day for seven days.  Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COMFANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Taj Gibson is returning to the Chicago Bulls, and the move brings a familiar face back into the building as the franchise continues reshaping its culture under Tiago Splitter and Bryson Graham. 👀🐂On today’s episode of Locked On Bulls, Haize and Pat The Designer react to Taj Gibson returning to the Bulls and what his presence could mean for the locker room, player development, toughness, accountability, and the young frontcourt. With players like Caleb Wilson, Matas Buzelis, Dailyn Swain, Noa Essengue, Patrick Williams, Jalen Smith, Zach Collins, and Nic Claxton, Chicago has a lot of young talent that could benefit from Taj’s experience and professionalism.The guys also discuss their confidence level in Tiago Splitter’s first Bulls coaching staff. With a rebuilt roster and a new direction, Splitter’s staff will be responsible for building a real identity, developing young players, fixing offensive issues, and helping this team become more competitive. Is this staff ready to handle that challenge in year one?Plus, Haize and Pat dive into the latest conversation around Jonathan Kuminga choosing Minnesota over the Bulls and whether Chicago’s refusal to offer him a guaranteed starting role played a major part in why he did not sign. Should the Bulls have promised Kuminga a starting spot to land another upside wing, or was Bryson Graham right to avoid giving away a role before training camp?Topics Include:Taj Gibson returning to the Chicago BullsWhat Taj brings to the Bulls’ locker room and young coreHow Taj can help Caleb Wilson, Matas Buzelis, and the frontcourtConfidence level in Tiago Splitter’s first coaching staffBulls player development under the new staffJonathan Kuminga choosing Minnesota over ChicagoDid the Bulls lose Kuminga over a starting role?Should Chicago have guaranteed Kuminga a starting spot?Bryson Graham’s offseason decision-makingBulls culture, development, and rotation questions before training campThe Bulls may not have landed Kuminga, but Taj Gibson’s return gives Chicago another respected voice as the new era begins. Now the question is whether Tiago Splitter’s staff can turn culture, development, and roster talent into real progress on the court.🎙️ Tune in to Locked On Bulls as Haize and Pat break down Taj Gibson’s return, confidence in Tiago Splitter’s coaching staff, and whether the Bulls made the right call by not offering Jonathan Kuminga a starting role.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.BetterhelpThis episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Sign up and get 10% off at https://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA.Aura CybersecurityStart your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware.  Protect yourself now.SquareGet up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/NBA ! #squarepodFanDuelMake this Your Most Rewarding Season Ever with FanDuel. Get $350 in Bonus Bets — GUARANTEED — when you bet five dollars every day for seven days.  Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COMFANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Are the Chicago Bulls being overlooked in the Eastern Conference heading into the 2026-27 NBA season? 👀🐂On today’s episode of Locked On Bulls, Haize and Pat The Designer break down whether the East is sleeping on the new-look Bulls. Chicago may not be getting much national respect, but with Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, Norman Powell, Nic Claxton, Patrick Williams, Rob Dillingham, Tre Jones, Isaac Okoro, Jalen Smith, Zach Collins, Dailyn Swain, Noa Essengue, and Jaylin Sellers, the Bulls have more talent, athleticism, and intrigue than people may realize.The guys debate whether Chicago has enough to climb into the Play-In conversation, especially in a deeper Eastern Conference. Are the Bulls still a bottom-tier team, or could improved defense, better transition play, and internal development help them shock people?Haize and Pat also discuss how important the Bulls bench will be this season. The starting five will get most of the attention, but the second unit may decide whether this team can actually compete. Can Rob Dillingham provide scoring? Can Tre Jones stabilize the offense? Can Patrick Williams, Isaac Okoro, Jalen Smith, Zach Collins, Jaylin Sellers, Dailyn Swain, or Noa Essengue carve out meaningful roles?Plus, the guys react to Caleb Wilson going back to UNC and dunking on a frat, adding even more fuel to the growing hype around the Bulls rookie. It may just be an offseason moment, but Wilson’s confidence, personality, and athleticism continue to make him one of the most exciting young players for Bulls fans to watch.Topics Include:Is the Eastern Conference overlooking the Bulls?Can Chicago compete for a Play-In spot?Why the Bulls may be better than national expectationsHow important the Bulls bench will be in 2026-27Which bench player matters most this season?Rob Dillingham, Patrick Williams, Tre Jones, and Jaylin Sellers rolesCaleb Wilson returns to UNCCaleb Wilson’s viral dunk momentBulls rookie hype before training campTiago Splitter’s biggest rotation questionsThe Bulls still have questions, but they also have a chance to be more competitive than people expect. If the bench becomes a real strength and Caleb Wilson’s confidence carries into training camp, Chicago could be one of the more interesting teams in the East.🎙️ Tune in to Locked On Bulls as Haize and Pat break down whether the East is overlooking the Bulls, how important the bench will be this season, and Caleb Wilson’s latest viral offseason moment at UNC.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.BetterhelpThis episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Sign up and get 10% off at https://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA.Aura CybersecurityStart your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware.  Protect yourself now.SquareGet up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/NBA ! #squarepodFanDuelMake this Your Most Rewarding Season Ever with FanDuel. Get $350 in Bonus Bets — GUARANTEED — when you bet five dollars every day for seven days.  Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COMFANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Caleb Wilson continues to build momentum before his rookie season even begins, and now Bleacher Report has voted his work ethic No. 1. 👀🐂On today’s episode of Locked On Bulls, Haize and Pat The Designer break down why the national media buzz around Caleb Wilson keeps growing and what that means for expectations entering the 2026-27 NBA season. Wilson has already become one of the most exciting pieces of the Chicago Bulls’ future, but does this latest recognition raise expectations too quickly? Or is this exactly the type of mentality the Bulls need from a young cornerstone?The guys also discuss whether Bulls fans are overlooking Patrick Williams heading into the season. With so much attention on Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, Nic Claxton, Norman Powell, Dailyn Swain, Noa Essengue, and Rob Dillingham, Patrick Williams may be flying under the radar. But could a new coaching staff, a different role, and lower expectations actually give P-Will one more chance to become a valuable part of the Bulls’ rotation?Plus, Haize and Pat react to Bleacher Report’s top 10 NBA trade targets and ask whether the Bulls could realistically land one. Should Bryson Graham be aggressive if the right player becomes available? Or should Chicago stay patient, protect assets, and evaluate this rebuilt roster before making another major move?Topics Include:Caleb Wilson’s work ethic being voted No. 1 by Bleacher ReportWhy Caleb Wilson’s rookie hype keeps risingWhat realistic expectations should be for WilsonAre Bulls fans overlooking Patrick Williams?Patrick Williams’ role in 2026-27Can P-Will still become a valuable Bulls piece?Bleacher Report’s top 10 trade targetsCould the Bulls land a major trade target?Should Bryson Graham stay patient or make a swing?Bulls roster outlook before training campThe Bulls have more young talent, more national intrigue, and more roster questions than they have had in years. Caleb Wilson’s work ethic could help set the tone for the future, Patrick Williams may still have something to prove, and the trade market could decide whether Chicago makes one more move before the season.🎙️ Tune in to Locked On Bulls as Haize and Pat break down Caleb Wilson’s rising national hype, whether Patrick Williams is being overlooked, and if the Bulls could land one of Bleacher Report’s top trade targets.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!OdooGreat organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.SquareGet up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/NBA ! #squarepodFanDuelMake this Your Most Rewarding Season Ever with FanDuel. Get $350 in Bonus Bets — GUARANTEED — when you bet five dollars every day for seven days.  Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COMFANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Could the Memphis Grizzlies’ roster crunch create a new opportunity for the Chicago Bulls? 👀🐂On today’s episode of Locked On Bulls, Haize and Pat The Designer react to insider Jake Fischer reporting that the Grizzlies could cut four players from a group that includes Walter Clayton Jr., Micah Peavy, Jordan Hawkins, D’Angelo Russell, and Kris Murray. While not every name screams obvious Bulls target, Chicago is still a rebuilding team looking for shooting, bench scoring, guard depth, and upside — which makes this situation worth watching.The guys debate whether Bryson Graham should monitor Memphis closely and whether a player like Jordan Hawkins could be the type of shooter and second-unit scorer the Bulls still need. Could Walter Clayton Jr. or Micah Peavy be worth a developmental look? Would D’Angelo Russell even make sense for this roster? Or should Chicago avoid chasing another team’s roster leftovers and focus on the players already in the building?Haize and Pat also react to ESPN’s grade for the Bulls’ offseason moves and whether Chicago is being judged fairly. The Bulls added Caleb Wilson, Dailyn Swain, Nic Claxton, Norman Powell, Zach Collins, and reshaped the roster under a new front office and coaching staff. But did the offseason truly fix enough? Or are questions around shooting, bench creation, half-court offense, and long-term star upside still holding the grade down?Plus, the guys close with a legacy debate: should Phil Jackson get a statue from the Chicago Bulls? Jackson helped lead one of the greatest dynasties in NBA history, but should coaches be honored with statues the same way franchise legends are? And if the Bulls do it for Phil, what does that say about how the organization honors its championship era?Topics Include:Memphis Grizzlies roster cuts to watchWalter Clayton Jr., Micah Peavy, Jordan Hawkins, D’Angelo Russell, and Kris MurrayShould the Bulls target Jordan Hawkins?Can Chicago still find bench scoring before the season?Bryson Graham’s final roster decisionsESPN grading the Bulls offseason movesDid the Bulls get enough credit for their offseason?Biggest remaining Bulls roster concernsShould Phil Jackson get a Bulls statue?Bulls legacy, history, and honoring the dynasty eraThe Bulls may not be expected to make another major move, but roster cuts around the league could still create opportunities. If the right shooter or scorer becomes available, Chicago has to decide whether to act — or trust the roster Bryson Graham has already built.🎙️ Tune in to Locked On Bulls as Haize and Pat break down possible Grizzlies cuts, ESPN’s Bulls offseason grade, and whether Phil Jackson deserves a statue in Chicago.Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclubSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!OdooGreat organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcastFanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Should the Chicago Bulls take a buy-low swing on Scoot Henderson, or is that the wrong kind of gamble for Bryson Graham’s front office? 👀🐂On today’s episode of Locked On Bulls, Haize and Pat The Designer break down whether Scoot Henderson could make sense as an upside target for Chicago. The Bulls still have questions around guard creation, bench scoring, rim pressure, and long-term backcourt upside. Scoot’s talent is obvious, but the fit would come with real questions. Would he help unlock a faster, more athletic Bulls offense? Or would adding another guard who needs development create more rotation complications next to Josh Giddey, Rob Dillingham, Tre Jones, Norman Powell, and the rest of the roster?The guys also dive into Tiago Splitter’s biggest early season coaching obstacle. With a rebuilt roster featuring Giddey, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, Nic Claxton, Norman Powell, Dailyn Swain, Noa Essengue, Isaac Okoro, Patrick Williams, Jalen Smith, Zach Collins, and more, Splitter has to establish roles quickly. But what is the biggest challenge: fixing the half-court offense, managing shooting concerns, balancing development with winning, or figuring out who actually belongs in the rotation?Plus, Haize and Pat discuss whether the Bulls should bring Taj Gibson back to Chicago to close out his career. Taj is one of the most respected Bulls of the post-Derrick Rose era, and a return would mean a lot to fans. But would it make sense for the actual roster, or would it be more of a culture move than a basketball move?Topics Include:Is Scoot Henderson a good buy-low option for the Bulls?What Scoot could bring to Chicago’s backcourtBulls’ need for more rim pressure and guard creationHow Scoot would fit next to Josh Giddey and Rob DillinghamTiago Splitter’s biggest early season obstacleBulls half-court offense concernsRotation battles and player development questionsShould the Bulls bring Taj Gibson back?Taj Gibson’s legacy in ChicagoBryson Graham’s next roster-building decisionThe Bulls have more talent and intrigue than they have had in years, but the next step is about fit, coaching, and smart roster decisions. Scoot Henderson would be a major upside swing, Tiago Splitter has real early-season problems to solve, and a Taj Gibson return would bring emotion, leadership, and debate.🎙️ Tune in to Locked On Bulls as Haize and Pat break down Scoot Henderson’s potential fit in Chicago, Tiago Splitter’s biggest coaching challenge, and whether Taj Gibson should finish his career with the Bulls.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!OdooGreat organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.SquareGet up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/NBA ! #squarepodFanDuelMake this Your Most Rewarding Season Ever with FanDuel. Get $350 in Bonus Bets — GUARANTEED — when you bet five dollars every day for seven days.  Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COMFANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.