As the NBA offseason unfolds, the Chicago Bulls find themselves at a critical juncture with their dynamic guard, Coby White, who is entering the final year of his contract. Set to become an unrestricted free agent next summer, White’s rumored salary demands have sent ripples across the league, placing the Bulls in a precarious financial and strategic position.
According to NBA Insider Jake Fischer, speaking on a recent Bleacher Report live stream, White is poised to seek a contract exceeding $30 million per year. “Coby White, from my understanding, is going to be eligible for more money as a free agent next year,” Fischer stated. “The talk around the league has already been that Coby White will be seeking even north of $30 million average annual value.” This figure, if accurate, would represent a significant leap from his current deal and could complicate the Bulls’ roster-building plans.
The Bulls’ recent commitment to Josh Giddey, who signed a four-year, $100 million contract, already ties up substantial cap space. Pairing Giddey’s deal with a potential $30 million-plus annual salary for White would commit nearly $50 million per season to the Bulls’ backcourt alone. This financial burden could hamstring the team’s ability to construct a contending roster, especially as they aim to balance youth development with competitive aspirations.
White, however, has undeniably earned a significant raise. Over the past two seasons, he has emerged as the Bulls’ most consistent offensive weapon, averaging 20.4 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists last season while shooting 45.3% from the field and 37% from three-point range. His ability to create offense for himself and his teammates makes him a valuable asset, not only to Chicago but also to potential suitors across the NBA.
The Bulls’ front office now faces a pivotal decision: commit to White long-term or explore trade options before he hits free agency. In his June 3 Hardwood Paroxysm newsletter, Matt Moore reported that some Eastern Conference personnel believe the Bulls are unlikely to retain both Giddey and White. “If Giddey gets locked in, White could be moved,” Moore wrote, though he expressed skepticism about the Bulls making such a bold move. “Saving money sounds like them, but not like this.”
However, with White’s reported $30 million-plus asking price, a trade may be the most pragmatic path. Losing him for nothing in free agency would be a significant blow, especially given his production and market value. Bleacher Report’s Grant Hughes, in an August 17 article, urged the Bulls to act swiftly. “Chicago probably should have dealt White at last year’s deadline, or even the one before,” Hughes wrote. “It was immediately evident that his bargain contract was going to be too small for a realistic extension, and that unrestricted free agency was nearly inevitable.”
Hughes emphasized that trading White before the February trade deadline would be wiser than letting him walk next summer. While acquiring teams may offer less now than when White had more years of team control, his value remains high due to his youth, scoring prowess, and playmaking ability.
At just 25 years old, White’s skill set makes him an attractive target for contending teams and rebuilding franchises alike. His ability to handle the ball, score efficiently, and facilitate offense would fit seamlessly on many rosters. If the Bulls opt to trade him, they could potentially net a package of young players, draft picks, or expiring contracts to bolster their roster flexibility.
Yet, trading White is not without risks. He has been a cornerstone of the Bulls’ offense, and moving him could disrupt team chemistry, especially for a franchise that has struggled to find consistency in recent years. The Bulls must weigh whether they can afford to pay White’s hefty price tag or if reallocating resources through a trade aligns better with their long-term vision.
As the 2025-26 season approaches, the Bulls are at a crossroads. Committing to White at $30 million per year could lock them into a costly backcourt tandem with Giddey, potentially limiting their ability to address other roster needs. Conversely, trading White could provide assets to reshape the team but risks losing a proven talent for less than optimal return.
The revelation of White’s lofty contract demands has not only shocked the NBA but also placed the Bulls in an impossible bind. With the trade deadline looming, Chicago’s front office must act decisively to determine whether White is a cornerstone of their future or a valuable trade chip to reshape their roster. The decision they make could define the franchise’s trajectory for years to come.