NBA Rumors: Chicago Bulls' Plan B if They Can't Land Anthony Davis

Víctor LF | Fri, 11/28/2025 - 22:57

Domantas Sabonis is rumored to be joining the Chicago Bulls

Although the NBA trade deadline isn't until February, rumors of potential moves are already spreading throughout the league. In the case of the Chicago Bulls, who are in the Eastern Conference mix, speculation is swirling about a possible reinforcement at the center position. The latest reports point to two high-profile names: Domantas Sabonis, a star from the Sacramento Kings, and Anthony Davis, currently playing for the Dallas Mavericks.

As reported by Jake Fischer in The Stein Line, there is speculation within the league that the Bulls' general manager, Artūras Karnišovas, might pursue acquiring Sabonis. Their Lithuanian connection fuels that possibility, although it's not the only option being considered. It's also believed that the franchise is exploring the idea of bringing Davis back to his hometown of Chicago, provided the right conditions.

There is maneuvering room thanks to the contract of Nikola Vucevic, which is seen as particularly attractive for a trade. The 35-year-old player remains an offensive threat, shooting over 40% from beyond the arc again, and his contract expires at the end of the season for about $21.4 million, a relatively manageable figure.

Fischer also noted a common impression among several rival executives: that Vucevic's contract, along with other expiring deals this year, paves the way for Karnišovas to make a move for Sabonis. This same logic fuels the notion that Chicago could also be a potential destination for Davis if the Bulls decide to make a significant push.

Sabonis and Davis' physical condition impacts any potential moves

Domantas Sabonis, 29, is currently recovering from a partial meniscus tear in his left knee. The Kings will reevaluate him in three to four weeks. In the eleven games he has played this season, the three-time All-Star is averaging 17.2 points, 12.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.2 steals, shooting 51.0% from the field and 20.0% from three-point range.

Meanwhile, Anthony Davis, 32, is dealing with a calf injury, with his condition being assessed day by day. The center has appeared in only five out of nineteen games for the Mavericks. In that limited span, he has averaged 20.8 points, 10.2 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 1.2 blocks, shooting 52.0% from the field and 27.3% from three-point territory.