The Chicago Bulls made their move this offseason, plain and simple. They re-signed Zach Collins to a two-year, $17 million deal (including a team option for the future). Collins has never been a true rim protector. Per Pippen Ain’t Easy, the front office knows he needs to prove his worth immediately. The mandate isn’t complicated. Chicago must play him to get his value back up.
The Trade Clock Is Ticking
Most of the league’s big moves are already done. The roster looks set for the long haul. The backcourt starting lineup features Josh Giddey alongside Norman Powell. Matas Buzelis and Caleb Wilson will lead the forwards. Nic Claxton will take the bulk of center minutes. But the team needs a backup plan. Claxton’s career never saw him surpass 30 minutes per game on average. He cannot eat all the minutes. The Bulls need Collins to step up now.
According to Pippen Ain’t Easy, the deal makes Collins a prime trade candidate by 2026-27. The team needs to rehabilitate his stock. Buyers don’t want end-of-bench big men. They want players who can help in the playoffs. Collins must show he can contribute seriously. If he stays healthy, the team can move him. But they can’t hide him on the bench.
Health Was the Real Issue
Last season was a disaster for Collins. He only played 10 games. A severe toe sprain stopped him near the start. This forced Jalen Smith to play as a part-time starter. The numbers show he has upside. During his final complete health year with the Spurs, he averaged 11.2 points. He shot 48.4% from the field. He is a decent defender and a peripheral scorer. The price of admission was right for a rebuilding team.
But health is the key variable. If Collins can stay on the floor, the trade option looks good. The front office re-signed him because the center market was thin. It was the right move for Chicago. Now they must prove it works. Behind Claxton, they must provide him with extensive playing time. This is the only way to fix his value.
What Fans Should Expect
The path forward is clear. The Bulls cannot minimize Collins’ time on the court. They need to see what he can do. If he plays well, the trade deadline becomes exciting. The team could retrieve value for his contract. If he sits, the deal becomes a bad one. The mandate is set. Play Collins. Fix the value. Get a return.
Do you think Collins can stay healthy enough to help the Bulls? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.
