The Chicago Bulls’ front office faces a pivotal 2026 offseason with decisions that could define the franchise’s trajectory.

Amid rumors of pursuing high-profile stars and extending lucrative contracts to starters like Coby White, a critical issue lurks unnoticed: the team’s bench unit.

Chicago’s reserves have become an under-the-radar powerhouse to begin the season. Through Nov. 19, the Bulls rank first in the NBA in bench scoring. Ignoring it in favor of splashy moves could undermine the Bulls’ competitive edge.

And the real problem hiding in plain sight is the potential oversight of this asset.

A Historic Scoring Machine Off the Bench

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The Bulls’ reserves are dominating. Through the first 14 games of the year the bench has scored 685 points, averaging 48.9 points per contest with a plus/minus of +202. This continued production could place them among the elite in league history. Chicago’s bench is currently averaging the third-highest points per game in league history.

In recent outings they’ve exploded for 71 and 66 points, outscoring opponents’ benches by large margins. Their 57-point edge in a win against the Denver Nuggets on Nov. 17 is just one example of how potent this group is.

This isn’t some fluke, but rather a testament to their depth that has propelled the team to a 8-6 record despite inconsistencies from the starting lineup.

Historically, top bench units have been game-changers for contenders. And by prioritizing this strength, Chicago could build sustainably rather than relying on superstar acquisitions.

Issues Persist with Star-Chasing in Today’s Salary-Cap Era

The rumored interests in marquee starters via trades risks diluting the bench’s effectiveness. The salary cap punishes overcommitment to only a few players. And signing proven All-Stars and reupping with Coby could force cost cutting elsewhere.

Star chasing often leads to roster imbalance. Just look at the cautionary examples of the Phoenix Suns and the Los Angeles Clippers—both teams that mortgaged futures for big names. The results were thinned out benches and injury woes from overtaxing older starters.

Bulls vice president of basketball operations Artūras Karnišovas should learn from this. Investing in the bench could yield better results, building chemistry and resilience in a grueling season.

Huerter and Dosunmu are Key Cornerstones

To sustain their bench play, re-signing Kevin Huerter and Ayo Dosunmu must be priorities. Huerter has averaged double figures with efficient outside touch. He hasn’t found his three-point stroke yet, but his playmaking and off-the-dribble shooting have made him indispensable.

And his defense has been equally impressive.

A reasonable four-year deal around $15-18 million annually could lock in his value without breaking the bank.

Similarly, Dosunmu is the heartbeat of the bench, blending energy, hustle, and high-level scoring efficiency.

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Dosunmu could receive a similar deal in years, but likely in the neighborhood of $20 million annually. Alongside contributors like Jalen Smith and Patrick Williams, this unit forms a cohesive second wave. Re-signing them preserves the bench’s identity as a scoring juggernaut.

Building Long Term Success

Ultimately, the Bulls’ front office must prioritize its internal strengths. By avoiding overpaying White and resisting star temptations, resources can fortify the bench as a sustainable advantage. This approach models successful teams like the Denver Nuggets or Boston Celtics when depth trumped top-heaviness.

In a parity driven NBA, the bench isn’t just support…it’s the difference maker for contending teams.

Chicago’s reserves have proven their worth and now it’s time for the executives to invest fully in this hidden gem.

Failure to do so could turn a potential future contender into another middling team chasing illusions.