As the 2025-26 NBA regular season approaches, the Chicago Bulls are finalizing their roster, but one name is notably absent from their future plans. In a surprising move, the Bulls have decided to part ways with forward Dalen Terry, their first-round pick (18th overall) from the 2022 NBA Draft, as his contract nears its end with no extension in sight. This decision marks a stunning exit for a player once viewed as a promising talent but whose tenure in Chicago has been marked by a series of disappointments.
A Promising Start That Fizzled Out
Dalen Terry entered the NBA with high expectations after being selected by the Bulls in 2022. At 6-7 and known for his athleticism, the former Arizona Wildcat was seen as a versatile forward with the potential to contribute on both ends of the court. However, over three seasons, Terry has struggled to carve out a consistent role. His career averages of 3.5 points, 1.6 rebounds, and 1.2 assists reflect his limited impact, and his playing time has dwindled as other forwards have taken precedence in Chicago’s rotation.
Terry’s standout moments, such as his high-flying dunks, have been few and far between. One notable highlight came when he soared past Utah Jazz guard Keyonte George for a dunk during a game at the Delta Center, showcasing the athleticism that initially excited Bulls fans. Yet, these flashes of brilliance have been overshadowed by his inability to find a consistent rhythm offensively or secure a steady role in the team’s plans.
No Extension Talks and a Looming Free Agency
According to a report by Joe Cowley of the Chicago Sun-Times, the Bulls have not engaged in any discussions regarding a contract extension for Terry. His four-year rookie contract, signed after the 2022 draft, is set to expire at the end of the 2025-26 season, positioning him to enter free agency. This lack of commitment from the Bulls signals their readiness to move on from the 23-year-old forward, whose development has not met the organization’s expectations.
For Terry, the upcoming season is a make-or-break opportunity. “Hell, yeah, it’s a big year for me,” Terry told the Chicago Sun-Times. His goal is clear: make a lasting impression, either to convince the Bulls to reconsider or to boost his value for other NBA teams in free agency. With his future in Chicago uncertain, Terry is focusing on proving his worth, particularly on the defensive end, where he believes he can stand out.
Defensive Potential Amid Offensive Struggles
While Terry’s offensive game has yet to materialize consistently, his defensive versatility offers a glimmer of hope. At 6-7, he has the size and athleticism to guard multiple positions, a skill he hopes to leverage this season. “That’s just the way it’s going to be. I have to hang my hat on the defensive end,” Terry said. “So when people try to put pressure on what I should be, I’m just going to be myself.”
Terry’s defensive efforts have occasionally shone through, such as when he took on the challenge of guarding Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen at the United Center. However, with a crowded forward rotation in Chicago, carving out a niche has proven difficult.
A Crowded Roster Leaves Little Room for Terry
The Bulls have bolstered their forward depth in recent years, making it challenging for Terry to secure meaningful minutes. Emerging talents like Matas Buzelis, a likely starter, and versatile players like Josh Giddey, who can slot in at shooting guard or power forward, have taken precedence. Additionally, players such as Patrick Williams, Noa Essengue, and Kevin Huerter provide further competition at the three and four positions.
With such a deep roster, Terry faces an uphill battle to make his mark. Yet, he remains pragmatic about his role. “It’s like everybody wants to be a star and score their 20, but, bro, just be a star in your role,” Terry said. “That gets paid. Teams want depth. I’m 6-7 [and] 23 years old, and I know that’s what teams are leaning toward… Everything else is plus. Scoring is plus.”
As the Bulls prepare for the 2025-26 season, their decision to forgo an extension for Terry underscores a shift in priorities. The organization appears focused on building around its core of young talent and recent acquisitions, leaving little room for a player who has yet to find his footing. For Terry, the upcoming season is his final chance to prove he belongs in Chicago—or to audition for another team willing to take a chance on his potential.
The Bulls’ choice to part ways with their former first-round pick is a stark reminder of the NBA’s unforgiving nature. While Terry’s athleticism and defensive upside still hold value, his inability to translate those traits into consistent production has led to this crossroads. Whether he can turn things around and secure a future in the league remains to be seen, but for now, his time with the Chicago Bulls appears to be nearing its end.