As a move to the Chicago Bulls started to gain momentum for Bennedict Mathurin, a report reveals the truth regarding the potential transfer.
NBA insider Marc Stein linked the Bulls with Mathurin in a recent report, however, Joel Lorenzi of the Athletic reveals that Chicago's interest in the guard-forward has been overstated.
"The Bulls recognize how early they sit in this rebuild, and the desire for talent at any position will trump stylistic need for a roster still discovering its long-term identity. Mathurin, who turned 24 in June, remains a talented young scorer who could be worth a flyer," Lorenzi wrote.
"But Chicago values two things at this stage: roster flexibility and acquiring future assets. Mathurin made roughly $9.2 million this past season, and his next contract is widely expected to exceed that figure in annual value."
Why a deal doesn't work?
In order to fit the contract of the restricted free agent, Chicago would have to execute a sign-and-trade and while the deal is theoretically possible it clashes with the Bulls' new direction.
General manager Bryson Graham has indicated that they prefer to sign short-term deals with limited guarantees to maintain cap and roster flexibility. The two-year deals with Norman Powell and Zach Collins indicate this, as they have a team option for the second year.
A potential deal with the Los Angeles Clippers would also require draft picks, which doesn't make sense for Chicago who are currently rebuilding.
While Mathurin would provide solid scoring for the Bulls, his playstyle is too similar to the way they operate already, as he thrives in driving to the rim with contact, but Chicago requires more three-point shooting and passing.
Bennedict Mathurin
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Bennedict Mathurin remains a restricted free agent
The LA Clippers extended Mathurin a qualifying offer before the June 29 deadline, making him a restricted free agent and giving Los Angeles the right to match an offer sheet signed with another team.
Mathurin arrived in Los Angeles at the February trade deadline when the Clippers sent Ivica Zubac and Kobe Brown to the Indiana Pacers.
Los Angeles received Mathurin, Isaiah Jackson, two first-round picks, and one second-round selection in the deal.
The 24-year-old averaged 17.6 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists across 54 games with Indiana and Los Angeles during the 2025-26 season.
In 26 appearances following the trade, Mathurin produced 17.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game for the Clippers.