As the February 5 NBA trade deadline approaches, Chicago Bulls guard Coby White has emerged as a name in trade discussions. The seventh-year player out of UNC is having a strong season, averaging 18.8 PPG on 45.2% FG and 36.6% 3PT (7.2 attempts per game). With just one year left on his contract and some overlap with Josh Giddey (who runs the primary offense), White feels expendable for Chicago.
Jan 10, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Coby White (0) brings the ball up court against the Dallas Mavericks during the first half at United Center.
One potential suitor is the Houston Rockets, who are searching for a true primary point guard to elevate their win-now window.
Proposed Mock Trade
Houston Rockets receive: PG Coby White, SF Julian PhillipsChicago Bulls receive: PG Reed Sheppard, SF Tari Eason
Why This Trade Makes Sense for the Rockets Houston has a strong young core in Alperen Şengün (23) and Amen Thompson (22), but they are in a championship window right now with Kevin Durant (37). Trading away Reed Sheppard and Tari Eason is tough, but necessary.
Coby White provides the true PG they lack. He immediately raises the ceiling with scoring and playmaking.Sheppard may eventually surpass White long-term, but with Durant at 37, Houston cannot wait. White boosts their title chances now.To replace Eason’s production (11.9 PPG, 6.2 RPG), the Rockets can lean on other wings like Josh Okogie and Dorian Finney-Smith – both likely to see expanded roles.
Why This Trade Makes Sense for the Bulls Chicago has struggled defensively, allowing the fifth-most points per game (119.8). Swapping White for Eason in the starting lineup would significantly improve defensive versatility.
Tari Eason (6’8″) is taller than White (6’4″) and brings two-way impact.
Reed Sheppard (Houston’s bench scorer this season) softens the loss of White’s scoring. In his second year, Sheppard is averaging 12.6 PPG on 39.4% 3PT (6.2 attempts).
Fantasy Basketball Impact
Coby White: Shots per game may dip slightly, but assists should rise playing with multiple shot creators (Durant, Şengün, Thompson).
Tari Eason: Biggest winner – likely sees a shot and rebound increase with a consistent starting role, filling White’s scoring void.
Reed Sheppard: Value stays roughly the same – bench scoring role in Chicago.
Rockets & Bulls fans – do you like this trade?
Should Houston sacrifice Sheppard & Eason for White to go all-in now?Are the Bulls trading present scoring for future upside?