In a surprising move that has left fans and analysts reeling, the Chicago Bulls have waived 27-year-old forward Mouhamadou Gueye with just over a week remaining until the 2025-26 NBA regular season begins. The announcement, made official by the team on Monday, marks an unexpected end to Gueye’s tenure with the Bulls, a decision that has sparked widespread discussion about the team’s roster strategy heading into the new season.
Gueye, a second-year player known for his defensive tenacity and athleticism, appeared in two preseason games for Chicago this year. In those limited minutes, he averaged 2 points and 1 rebound in just 4 minutes per game, offering glimpses of his potential as a high-energy role player. However, the Bulls’ front office evidently saw enough to make the difficult call to part ways with the young forward, opting to reshape their roster as the season opener looms.
Last season, Gueye spent much of his time in the G-League, honing his skills while also earning a call-up to the Toronto Raptors for 11 NBA games. During his stint with the Raptors, he showcased his defensive prowess, averaging 2.4 points, 2.1 rebounds, and an impressive 1.6 blocks per game in limited action. His ability to protect the rim and contribute on the glass made him an intriguing project for teams looking to develop raw talent into a rotational piece.
The decision to waive Gueye comes as a shock, particularly given the Bulls’ need for depth in the frontcourt. With the regular season tipping off in mere days, the move raises questions about Chicago’s plans to fill the void left by Gueye’s departure. Was this a strategic cut to free up a roster spot for a late free-agent signing or a potential trade? Or does it signal a shift in the Bulls’ approach, prioritizing established veterans over developmental prospects?
For Gueye, the sudden release marks another chapter in a career that has seen him bounce between the NBA and G-League. At 27, he remains a player with upside, particularly on the defensive end, where his shot-blocking instincts and athleticism could catch the eye of another team in need of frontcourt depth. As the news of his waiver spreads, it’s likely that Gueye won’t remain a free agent for long, with G-League teams and potentially other NBA franchises monitoring his next move.
For the Bulls, this roster shakeup sends a clear message: no spot is safe as the team fine-tunes its lineup for what promises to be a critical season. Fans will be watching closely to see how this decision impacts Chicago’s rotation and whether the front office has another move up its sleeve before the season tips off. One thing is certain—this abrupt cut has added an unexpected layer of intrigue to the Bulls’ preparations for the 2025-26 campaign.