The Chicago Bulls are buzzing with optimism after a breakout 2024-25 season from guard Coby White, who emerged as a dynamic force alongside Josh Giddey and rookie Matas Buzelis. White’s career-best performance—averaging 20.4 points per game—has positioned him as a cornerstone of Chicago’s future. However, a stunning report from Joe Cowley of the Chicago Sun-Times reveals that White may decline a lucrative four-year, $89 million extension to test free agency in 2026, aiming for a $40 million-per-year payday. Is this a bold move that could reshape the Bulls’ trajectory, or a risky gamble that could backfire? Let’s dive into the implications of White’s decision for both him and the Bulls.
1. Coby White’s Rise: A Star on the Ascent
Coby White’s 2024-25 season was a revelation. The 25-year-old guard averaged 20.4 points, 4.8 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game on 45.3% shooting across 74 games, marking his third consecutive season of durability (70+ games played, per ESPN). His growth as a scorer and playmaker, particularly in the second half of the season, solidified his role as a key piece of Chicago’s backcourt alongside Josh Giddey. Together, the duo became one of the NBA’s most exciting combinations, powering the Bulls to a Play-In Tournament berth despite an early exit.
White’s versatility—shooting 39.1% from three and driving aggressively to the rim—makes him a perfect fit for modern NBA offenses. His chemistry with Giddey, who excels in transition and playmaking, and the promise of 2024 first-round pick Matas Buzelis, a 6’10” forward with guard-like skills, give the Bulls a young, dynamic core. This trio offers hope for a franchise that hasn’t reached the Eastern Conference Finals since 2011.
2. The Free Agency Gamble: A $40M Payday?
According to Joe Cowley, White is eligible for a four-year, $89 million extension ($22.25 million per year) starting in July 2025 but is leaning toward testing free agency in 2026. By betting on himself, White could command a deal worth up to $40 million annually, placing him among the NBA’s elite guards like Devin Booker or Trae Young. This decision stems from White’s consistent improvement—his scoring has risen every season since his 2019 rookie year (from 13.2 to 20.4 PPG)—and his belief that another strong season could elevate his market value.
However, this move carries risks. Declining a guaranteed $89 million contract exposes White to potential injuries or a dip in performance, which could lower his value. The 2026 free agency market will also be competitive, with stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo potentially available. Still, White’s youth, durability, and two-way potential make him an attractive target for teams with cap space, such as the San Antonio Spurs or Orlando Magic, who could pair him with young stars like Victor Wembanyama or Paolo Banchero.
3. Impact on the Bulls: A Double-Edged Sword
White’s decision to test free agency puts the Bulls in a precarious position. Keeping White long-term is crucial for building around him, Giddey, and Buzelis, but a $40 million-per-year deal would strain Chicago’s salary cap, especially with Zach LaVine’s $43 million annual contract through 2027. If White leaves in free agency, the Bulls risk losing a homegrown star for nothing, a blow to a franchise still rebuilding after years of mediocrity (only one playoff series win since 2015).
On the flip side, White’s confidence signals his commitment to improving, which could elevate the Bulls’ performance in 2025-26. If he replicates or exceeds his 20.4 PPG output, Chicago could make a deeper playoff push, potentially convincing White to stay. The Bulls’ front office, led by Arturas Karnisovas, must also navigate Giddey’s upcoming contract talks, as his role as a playmaking guard complements White’s scoring. Balancing these financial commitments while developing Buzelis will test Chicago’s roster-building strategy.
4. League-Wide Implications
White’s potential free agency could shake up the NBA. Teams with cap space in 2026 might see him as a cornerstone guard, capable of leading a playoff-contending offense. His departure from Chicago could weaken the Bulls’ position in the Eastern Conference, where they face stiff competition from teams like the Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks. Conversely, if White stays and continues to grow alongside Giddey and Buzelis, the Bulls could emerge as a dark horse in the East, challenging for a top-4 seed by 2027.
Coby White’s decision to bet on himself in free agency is a high-stakes gamble that could redefine his career and the Chicago Bulls’ future. His emergence as a 20.4 PPG scorer, paired with Giddey and Buzelis, offers hope for a Bulls resurgence, but the risk of losing him looms large. Will White’s bold move lead to a massive payday and a brighter future in Chicago, or will it spark a bidding war that changes the NBA landscape?
