The Bulls made some important deals before the deadline, signing Brogdon in f.a., re-signing Giddey, and extending the contracts of C. White and Ayo (plus 2 important trades).
TRADES
A two-team trade with the Raptors, who trade Barrett for J.Carter and Ayo. RJ now appears to be on his way out of Toronto, both for technical reasons, given his playing style isn't in line with what the Raptors have sought over the last two years, and for financial reasons, given that Toronto will have to make significant renewals in a year. So, while Barrett's market value isn't high, snagging an experienced guard and, more importantly, the new contract of a young and promising defender like Ayo could be worth it. On the other hand, Chicago would free up a position with plenty of players (the guards) and, despite losing a key player like Ayo, would add a quality small forward to their roster.
The second trade is a three-team one involving the Hawks, Warriors and Bulls. This trade is more complex than the previous one for two main reasons: Atlanta doesn't seem willing to trade Okongwu, except for significant offers, and Chicago is unlikely to give up two of its own frp. That said, this trade would allow GS to get rid of the Kuminga problem, increase their draft capital with 2srp, and sign two centers who are perfect for GSW's game, which requires good defenders capable of opening the floor (Z.Collins via trade and Al Horford in f.a. thanks to the cap space left by Kuminga). This trade would give the Bulls a top center with potential, Okongwu is an atypical center by NBA standards, but he'd be a perfect fit for Chicago's fast-paced game. For the Hawks, Okongwu would be a significant loss for the present and, more importantly, for the future, but they'd be compensated by the arrival of two top-notch young players in J.Smith and, most importantly, Kuminga plus 2frp.
After this trade the Bulls' roster will be composed as follows:
Guards: Giddey,C.White, Brogdon, T.Jones, Huerter, Yuki and D.Terry.
Forwards: Barrett, Buzelis, Okoro, Essengue, P.Williams and Phillips.
Centers: Okongwu, Vucevic and Olbrich.
Starting lineup: Giddey - C.White - Barrett - Buzelis - Okongwu