As the Chicago Bulls approach the final stretch of the NBA season, every game holds significant weight—not just for their playoff hopes, but also for their positioning in the upcoming NBA Draft. Sitting in a precarious spot between competing for a play-in berth and slipping into the lottery, the Bulls’ impending schedule will be the deciding factor in whether they push forward or pivot toward a long-term rebuild.
With the regular season winding down, the Bulls face a slate of games that could drastically alter their future. Matchups against fellow Eastern Conference teams vying for play-in spots, as well as title contenders, will test their resilience. Wins could solidify their place in the postseason conversation, but losses may push them further down the standings—potentially improving their draft lottery odds.
The dilemma for Chicago is clear: should they go all in on a late-season push, or is it time to prioritize their draft position? A string of tough opponents could naturally force their hand, as failing to secure victories would inadvertently improve their chances of landing a higher draft pick. However, if they string together unexpected wins, they might find themselves locked into a play-in scenario—eliminating any real shot at a high lottery selection.
The Bulls’ current standing puts them in a murky position. If they finish just outside the play-in tournament, they could secure a mid-lottery pick, but if they barely sneak into the postseason, they risk landing in the dreaded late-lottery range, where franchise-altering talent is harder to find.
Adding another wrinkle to the situation is their draft pick obligations. The Bulls owe a top-four protected first-rounder to the Orlando Magic as part of the Nikola Vučević trade. If they land within the top four, they keep the pick—otherwise, it goes to Orlando. This dynamic raises the stakes even further, as dropping too far in the standings could increase their odds of retaining their selection, while a strong finish could see them losing a valuable asset.
For the Bulls’ front office, this upcoming schedule isn’t just about wins and losses—it’s about setting a course for the franchise. If their recent struggles continue, they may pivot toward development and lean into a youth movement. On the other hand, if they manage to string together victories, they could find themselves stuck in mediocrity, missing out on both a meaningful playoff run and a top-tier draft prospect.
The next few weeks will be decisive. Whether Chicago embraces a late-season push or falters into the lottery, their fate—and their future—will be written in the results of their upcoming schedule.
