Trade negotiations between the Houston Rockets and Chicago Bulls are progressing rapidly, with Coby White at the center of all discussions. While reports regarding the Bulls’ asking price have been conflicting, it is clear that both sides are engaged in serious dialogue.
Jan 29, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Coby White (0) brings the ball up court against the Miami Heat during the first half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
Evolution of Chicago’s Demands:
Initially: The Bulls targeted a young talent under 23 with a development trajectory similar to Matas Buzelis or Josh Giddey. They reportedly floated names like Tari Eason and Reed Sheppard as ideal targets in exchange for White.
Latest (via Evan Sidery): The Bulls are now reportedly open to a package centered around Steven Adams or Dorian Finney-Smith, plus a first-round pick.
The Shift: This suggests Chicago has lowered their expectations after realizing Eason or Sheppard are likely untouchable. Now, a first-round pick plus a veteran contract seems more realistic—especially since White will be an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2026 (the two sides failed to reach an extension last summer after White rejected a 4-year, $87M offer).
Salary Cap Feasibility:
Coby White: $12.8M this season.
Steven Adams: $14.1M / Dorian Finney-Smith: $12.7M. Both Adams and Finney-Smith have multi-year deals, allowing the Bulls to maintain salary commitments if they choose. The Rockets can use either to match salaries precisely while sending a pick to sweeten the deal.
Rockets’ Draft Assets – The Major Leverage: Houston possesses significant assets:
Phoenix Suns’ 2027 & 2029 Picks: These are the keys to the future. Even with the Suns playing better than expected, these remain high-value assets.
Rockets’ own 2028 Pick: Another option, though its value depends on the team’s performance over the next two years. Houston will certainly not surrender a lottery pick for White, but a mid-to-late first-rounder (like the Suns’ 2027 or their own 2028) is highly feasible.
Current Team Status:
Rockets (29-17): Currently 4th in the West, 7-3 in their last 10 games. Kevin Durant is playing at an MVP level (26.4 PPG), but the team needs a true PG to alleviate pressure on him and Amen Thompson. White is ideal: elite scoring, experience, and a short-term contract.
Bulls (24-26): 10th in the East, in a rebuilding phase. White is their most valuable asset, but without an extension, they risk losing him for nothing in 2026. Accepting a veteran plus a pick is the best way to preserve value.
Conclusion: Negotiations are heating up and could conclude in the coming days. Chicago lowering their price is a clear sign they want to finalize a deal before White hits free agency. Houston has the leverage with the Suns picks and veteran contracts but will likely avoid overpaying.
Rockets Nation & Bulls Nation, what’s your take?
Should the Rockets offer the Suns 2027 pick + Finney-Smith/Adams for White?
Should the Bulls hold White and wait for a better offer?