CHICAGO — Billy Donovan, the head coach of the Chicago Bulls, mentioned that discussions regarding the team’s first-round draft choice have not been a part of his talks with management as the NBA trade deadline approaches next month.

Following a 114-110 win against San Antonio, the Bulls have managed to secure four victories in their last five games, bringing their overall record to 17-19. The Bulls owe their first-round pick in the 2025 draft to San Antonio due to a transaction involving DeMar DeRozan back in 2021, but this pick is protected and will only be conveyed if it falls outside the top 10.

Donovan stated, “No one’s saying to me, hey, listen, wait a second with this draft pick right now; we need to make sure…” emphasizing that the focus remains on maintaining competitive integrity. He expressed gratitude for this approach.

While Donovan confirmed that he hasn’t been deliberating about the draft pick in his talks, he does recognize the Bulls’ current position in the NBA landscape. Last season, the Bulls finished with a 40-42 record, and the year prior, they wrapped up at 39-43.

“We don’t want to be just stuck in the middle… Absolutely. I don’t think there’s any question about that,” Donovan remarked. He highlighted the importance of evaluating the team’s overall composition and spotting players who could help lead the franchise out of mediocrity. Donovan also has confidence in certain players currently on the roster, noting their competitiveness as a positive sign.

Ayo Dosunmu was absent for the sixth consecutive game on Monday night due to a right calf strain. As he approaches his 25th birthday on January 17, Dosunmu is averaging 12.6 points and 4.8 assists in his fourth season in the NBA. Donovan explained that Dosunmu is undergoing rehabilitation but has been experiencing discomfort while trying to sprint.

“Given the situation with his lower calf, they’re just going to be cautious,” Donovan stated regarding Dosunmu’s injury status.