Chicago Bulls eye Walker Kessler in free agency

The Chicago Bulls, led by new executive Bryson Graham, have ample cap space after only nine players are under contract for the 2026‑27 season. With a potential salary of $25 million for the highest‑paid player, the team can afford to pursue a restricted‑free‑agent center.

Walker Kessler, 24, is a restricted free agent with the Utah Jazz and has expressed dissatisfaction with his current situation. The Bulls could make a competitive offer to add his seven‑foot‑two shot‑blocking presence, providing a defensive anchor for their youthful roster while preserving future assets.

The Bulls’ strategy may involve using RFA offers to acquire proven talent without sacrificing draft picks, aligning with the league’s new flattened lottery rules that penalize bottom‑three teams.