Chicago Bulls

According to NBA insider Shams Charania, shooting guard Talen Horton-Tucker has signed a partially guaranteed deal with his hometown Chicago Bulls. The 23-year-old was available as a free agent after playing out a pair of campaigns in Utah. Horton-Tucker had a mixed season in 2023-24 and even spent some time out of the rotation, but he put up decent numbers while with the team. The former Laker posted 10.5 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 3.6 assists in 20.0 minutes across two seasons. However, Horton-Tucker shot below 40 percent from the field last term, and he certainly has to improve his efficiency to earn a team's trust.

Chicago Bulls center Nikola Vucevic remains on the roster despite months of trade rumors. The veteran was recently asked about the trade chatter during an interview. However, it doesn't appear he's concerned about being moved. "In most cases, those are really just speculations," said Vucevic. "I honestly don't pay much attention to it because I have no control over it." The 33-year-old averaged 18.0 points and 10.5 rebounds last season. But, he struggled from deep, draining just 29.4% of his attempts from downtown. At any rate, Vucevic is expected to remain a double-double threat for at least a few more seasons, no matter where he ends up in the future.

Phoenix Suns forward EJ Liddell was waived on Wednesday. The 23-year-old had spent just four weeks as a member of the team. The Suns acquired Liddell from Atlanta last month in exchange for David Roddy. Liddell, a second-round pick in 2022, made his first eight NBA appearances with the New Orleans Pelicans last season. However, he logged only 23 total minutes. After also waiving Nassir Little, Phoenix expects big things from 21-year-old forward Ryan Dunn during his rookie year. Additionally, the moves opened up a roster spot for the team.

Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball (knee) stated his rehab has gone well. He also told fans to expect to see him back on the court in 2024-25. The 26-year-old last played in 2021-22 when he averaged 13.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, 5.1 assists, and 1.8 steals in 35 games for the Bulls. He also shot a career-high 42.3%. Unfortunately, he has undergone numerous knee surgeries and hasn't been on the court since. At any rate, Ball appears to be moving in the right direction in the recovery process. But it will take time before he's ready for a full workload. Even then, the Bulls have Josh Giddey and Coby White, meaning Ball could struggle to find minutes.

Chicago Bulls forward Patrick Williams reportedly intends to sign a massive extension with the organization. The Bulls extended a qualifying offer to Williams, but it sounds like the two sides have agreed on a new deal. Williams intends to sign a five-year, $90 million contract to remain in Chicago long term. The Bulls have high hopes for Williams despite him only playing 43 games last season due to injury. At the moment, it seems unlikely that the Bulls are going to bring back DeMar DeRozan which should mean an increased role for Williams next season.