The Chicago Bulls are in the midst of one of the most severe and demoralizing slumps of any team this season. They're 3-12 over their last 15, and more saddening is the level of teams they're dropping decisions to. In the previous six losses, five have come to teams with four or fewer wins on the season. While a few scattered injuries have contributed to their woes, the majority of the issues stem from defense and turnovers. They are in the bottom five in points allowed per night and last in paint points surrendered. They also rank in the bottom half of the NBA in turnovers offensively and points allowed in transition defensively. Despite all of the recent shortcomings, one player's return will help address most of their problems.
Zach Collins Is A Big Help
Zach Collins, who returned last night, will immediately impact both ends of the floor. The most significant difference will be on defense. His rim protection and athleticism are unmatched on the roster, and they will dramatically improve the team's defensive output. Last season, according to Hoop Obsession, he had the most significant positive margin between his individual defensive rating and the rest of his team's average defensive rating at a staggering +8.6. When he's on the floor, he's a game-changing defensive force. Last year's run after the All-Star break is a perfect example of his influence.
Since the All-Star break, the Bulls have quietly become a top-10 defense — 114.4 defensive rating (10th in the NBA). Key adjustments, including adding Zach Collins, have fueled the surge. Collins owns a 107.1 defensive rating with the Bulls — big-time impact. pic.twitter.com/TBTTzxkbha
— See Red Fred (@cbefred) March 26, 2025
Arguably, the most essential thing Collins does upon return is limit Nikola Vucevic's minutes. He's 35 years old, and it's becoming more painfully obvious with each passing game. His three-point shooting numbers are dwindling, his turnovers are increasing, and his paint defense has become extinct. Not only is Collins a positive impact on both ends, but brings an even greater net difference when specifically replacing Chicago's weakest defender. Last night, he was on a 20-minute restriction, but as he is ramped up to normal playing time, it'll only help the Bulls.
Opens The Door For A Vucevic Trade
The next important door that Collins will open up is Arturas Karnisovas being more willing and able to send Vucevic elsewhere. This would be a win-win for both parties. Vucevic has been vocal about his desire to compete for an NBA championship and make deep playoff runs before his career is over. His contract expires this summer, and his production this season will likely land him on a playoff-caliber trade partner. This would eliminate the Bulls' weakest defender, their oldest and least valuable asset, eliminate any chance of a contract extension, and give more room for development of their two younger centers. His name has been dangled in any trade that's been discussed over the past three weeks.
Like it or not: it’s time to trade Nikola Vucevic.
— Die-Hard Chicago Bulls Fans (@Bullsfans) November 24, 2025
He should NOT be in their long term plans. His contract expires this upcoming summer.
In terms of this season alone, his value is the highest it possibly can be given the circumstances. pic.twitter.com/bOwuYbwFe6
Can Chicago hold out for a few more games until Collins' full return, and then begin to see a clearer picture of the future? The best-case scenario is that he fully replaces Vucevic, the 35-year-old center is traded, and the Bulls can get a head start on their rebuild.
