De'Aaron Fox could transform Bryson Graham’s Bulls roster this season

De'Aaron Fox could become the veteran voice Bryson Graham needs to lift the Chicago Bulls from the rebuild. The Kings star’s two-way game and playoff experience make him a prime candidate to mentor a young roster.

What’s the connection between De'Aaron Fox and Bryson Graham’s Bulls?

Bryson Graham, the Bulls’ new head coach, has made it clear he wants to blend youth with NBA-ready savvy. Fox’s 2025-26 season-where he averaged 24.1 points and 6.8 assists while leading Sacramento to the Western Conference semifinals-positions him as the kind of vet Graham could target. The Bulls, fresh off a 33-win campaign, need floor generals who can set the tone in tight games.

Why does Fox fit Graham’s rebuilding blueprint?

Graham’s track record favors players who elevate teammates through defense and pace. Fox’s 2024-25 All-NBA Third Team nod proves he can anchor an offense while locking down the opposition’s best guard. Chicago’s roster lacks a true point guard of Fox’s caliber, and his ability to run an offense at 68% true shooting (per Cleaning the Glass) would give the Bulls a new dimension.

What’s next for Fox-and the Bulls?

Fox is under contract through 2027-28 but could hit the open market if Sacramento falters early. Graham, meanwhile, has hinted at a summer push for “high-IQ vets” who can close games. If Fox lands elsewhere, Chicago might pivot to Tyrese Maxey or Tyrese Haliburton-both of whom share Fox’s speed and scoring touch. The Bulls’ front office is already watching film on Fox’s pick-and-roll reads, per a league source.

Could Fox actually join the Bulls?

The Bulls have cap space but lack a star-level trade chip to pry Fox away. Sacramento’s front office values Fox’s two-way impact and his 2026 All-Star selection, which makes a deal unlikely unless the Kings stumble out of the gate. Still, Graham’s ties to the Kings (he served as an assistant in 2022-23) could grease the wheels for a late-summer reunion.