In a stunning move that has sent ripples through the NBA landscape, the Chicago Bulls have pulled off a blockbuster trade with the New Orleans Pelicans, acquiring defensive stalwart Herbert Jones and veteran center DeAndre Jordan. The deal, finalized just ahead of the January 16 trade eligibility date, marks a bold pivot for the Bulls as they aim to bolster their roster amid a middling 12-15 start to the 2025-26 season, currently placing them 10th in the Eastern Conference.
At the heart of this trade is DeAndre Jordan, the 37-year-old former All-NBA center whose arrival in Chicago feels like a blast from the past. Once the cornerstone of the Los Angeles Clippers’ “Lob City” era, Jordan earned All-NBA First Team honors in 2016 and was a dominant force on both ends of the floor, leading the league in rebounds multiple times and anchoring defenses with his rim protection. His unexpected landing in the Windy City—after stints with the Nets, Lakers, 76ers, and now Pelicans—adds a layer of intrigue and experience to a Bulls team hungry for veteran leadership. While Jordan’s prime days are behind him, his pedigree as a franchise player and his championship pedigree (he won a ring with the Nuggets in 2023) could provide the mentorship and depth Chicago desperately needs.
The Trade Details: A High-Stakes Gamble
According to sources from Clutch Sports, the Bulls are sending sharpshooter Kevin Huerter, a 2026 first-round pick (via the Portland Trail Blazers), a 2028 first-round pick (top-14 protected), and multiple second-round picks to New Orleans in exchange for Jones and Jordan. On paper, this looks like a hefty price for Chicago, especially considering Jordan’s role as essentially a salary dump—his expiring contract helps the Pelicans clear cap space while acquiring draft capital and a reliable shooter in Huerter.
But dig deeper, and the logic unfolds. Herbert Jones, the 27-year-old forward known for his elite perimeter defense, is the true prize here. Locked in through the 2028-29 season with a $24.1 million player option, Jones addresses Chicago’s glaring defensive woes. The Bulls rank a dismal 25th in the league, allowing 122.0 points per game, and Jones—averaging 1.5 steals and 1.0 blocks this season—could transform their identity. His versatility allows him to guard multiple positions, fitting seamlessly alongside stars like DeMar DeRozan (assuming he’s still on the roster) and Zach LaVine.
Losing Huerter stings; the 27-year-old has been a key rotational piece, shooting 38% from three and providing spacing. However, the Bulls’ front office views this as a necessary sacrifice for long-term stability. Chicago still owns the majority of their future first-round picks, so this isn’t a franchise-crippling move—it’s a calculated risk to push for playoff contention now.
Why DeAndre Jordan’s Arrival Is the Real Shocker
While Jones grabs the headlines for his defensive upside, Jordan’s inclusion feels like a plot twist straight out of a Hollywood script. The former All-Star, who once posterized opponents with thunderous dunks alongside Blake Griffin and Chris Paul, has evolved into a savvy veteran. At this stage, he’s not the athletic marvel he once was, but his rebounding instincts and locker-room presence remain invaluable.
For the Bulls, Jordan could serve as a backup center, especially if rumors of a Nikola Vucevic trade materialize. Vucevic, at 35, has been solid but inconsistent, and Jordan offers a different dimension— a traditional big man who can mentor younger talents like Jalen Smith or any incoming prospects. Imagine Jordan as a player-coach, sharing stories from his 18-year career, including his time with Hall of Famers like Kevin Durant and Joel Embiid. In an era of positionless basketball, his old-school post presence could provide a “different look” against undersized lineups, as one Bulls insider put it.
This acquisition echoes past Bulls surprises, like the 2018 signing of Jabari Parker or the more successful addition of Pau Gasol in 2014. But Jordan’s All-NBA resume elevates it to another level—fans are already buzzing about the potential for “vintage DJ” moments at the United Center.
The Bigger Picture: An All-In Push or a Risky Bet?
Critics will argue this is an overpay, trading away premium draft assets for a defensive specialist and a aging vet. Yet, for a team stuck in mediocrity, it’s a signal of intent. The Eastern Conference is wide open beyond powerhouses like the Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks, and with Jones anchoring the defense, the Bulls could climb into the top six. Pair him with Lonzo Ball’s playmaking (if healthy) and Ayo Dosunmu’s energy, and suddenly Chicago has a gritty core capable of upsetting contenders.
For the Pelicans, this deal accelerates their rebuild. Huerter’s expiring contract gives them flexibility, and the picks—especially the unprotected 2026 one—could yield high-upside talent. New Orleans, dealing with injury woes to Zion Williamson and a logjam at forward, sheds Jones’ long-term salary while gaining assets.
As the trade deadline approaches, this move could spark more activity. Will the Bulls flip Vucevic for another piece? Could Jordan’s presence lure free agents next summer? One thing’s certain: the Windy City is abuzz with optimism—and a touch of nostalgia.
DeAndre Jordan, a former All-NBA franchise player, is now a Chicago Bull. Shock waves indeed.