The Chicago Bulls still have major rotation questions heading into the 2026-27 NBA season, and today’s episode looks at three names who could shape the bench conversation in very different ways. 👀🐂 On today’s episode of Locked On Bulls, Haize and Pat The Designer break down Tre Jones’ 2026-27 expectations and what his role should look like in Tiago Splitter’s first season as head coach. Can Jones be the steady backup guard this roster needs? With a young core featuring Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, Dailyn Swain, Noa Essengue, and Nic Claxton, the Bulls need reliable decision-making, ball security, and structure off the bench. The guys also dive into Jalen Smith’s expectations for the season. Smith brings size, shooting potential, rebounding, and frontcourt depth, but where does he fit with Nic Claxton, Zach Collins, Caleb Wilson, and the rest of the Bulls’ big-man rotation? Is there a clear role for him, or will minutes be harder to find than expected? Plus, Haize and Pat discuss whether the Bulls should monitor Peyton Watson if the Denver Nuggets’ second-apron situation makes him available. Watson’s athleticism, defensive upside, wing size, and developmental profile could make him an intriguing upside swing for a Bulls team still searching for long-term answers on the wing. Topics Include: Tre Jones’ 2026-27 expectations Can Tre Jones stabilize the Bulls’ second unit? Jalen Smith’s role in Tiago Splitter’s rotation Is Jalen Smith a sneaky important bench piece? Bulls frontcourt depth questions Peyton Watson availability watch Could the Nuggets’ second-apron situation create an opportunity? Should the Bulls take another upside swing? How Peyton Watson would fit Chicago’s timeline Bulls bench rotation preview The Bulls have added talent, but the margins still matter. If Tre Jones gives Chicago steady guard play, Jalen Smith finds a defined role, and Peyton Watson becomes a real option, Bryson Graham may still have ways to improve the roster before the season begins. 🎙️ Tune in to Locked On Bulls as Haize and Pat break down Matas Buzelis’ comments on Billy Donovan, his work with Dirk Nowitzki, and Norman Powell’s expectations for the 2026-27 season. Follow Locked On Bulls on Twitter Locked On Bulls: https://twitter.com/LockedOnBulls Haize: https://twitter.com/CEOHaize Pat: https://twitter.com/PatTheDesigner Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Odoo Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Betterhelp This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Sign up and get 10% off at https://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
