Chicago has always been regarded as one of the most historic and illustrious franchises in the NBA. Much of that is thanks to being the home of the greatest basketball player of all time and one of the best dynasties in the sport, but it also boasts historic legends sprinkled throughout its entirety. Over the last decade, things have taken a terrible turn. Since 2015, they've posted the sixth-worst record leaguewide, winning only 43.5% of their outings. In addition, they've only had two postseason appearances, a 3-8 record in the playoffs, and are on track to miss the dance for a fourth consecutive season. Multiple factors have been at play, including a lack of All-Star talent, consistently whiffing on draft choices, making poor decisions on the trade market, and failing to secure a top-five pick in the NBA Draft lottery often enough. Following their seventh straight loss on Sunday night, against the Golden State Warriors and Jimmy Butler, an embarrassing statistic was brought to light that has truly depicted how bad things have been.
Even Jimmy Butler Can't Help But Chuckle
After Sunday's game, Jimmy Butler was told that the Chicago Bulls franchise, in the eight years since he was traded away, has yet to win as many games as they did when he was with the organization—the six years he spent in Chicago featured 276 wins, 16 playoff victories, five playoff appearances, and two second-round runs. In the eight years since he's been gone, they've had 275 wins, one playoff win, one playoff appearance, and zero runs beyond the first round. Despite having two extra seasons without Butler, the Bulls have not scratched the success they did with his services.
Here’s what Jimmy Butler told @TheBigsMedia about the Bulls still having won fewer games without him than they did with him.
— Drew Stevens (@Drew_H_Stevens) December 8, 2025
“That’s a helluva stat.” https://t.co/bdh61k7db6 pic.twitter.com/ldbTHt4UuT
The Jimmy Butler for Zach LaVine trade was the first of a series of head-scratching moves from the Chicago Bulls, and it has triggered an entire decade of subpar basketball. Is this a wake-up call to the front office on just how poorly the franchise has been operated recently?
The Fans Deserve More
Part of Butler's response was elaborating on the fact that the Chicago fans are unlike any he's played for. He spoke about the energy, passion, and relentless support they provide to the organization, regardless of the outcome. Those same qualities may be getting taken advantage of by the top of the franchise, and play a role in the lack of urgency to improve. As one of the largest markets in basketball, the Windy City needs to present a much more competitive and entertaining product.
Stacey King: “fans want this team to win, but most important they want them to COMPETE”😤🏀
— Gimme The Hot Sauce Podcast (@gimmehotsauce21) December 9, 2025
And NBA writer, Ricky O’Donnell, admits that the Bulls stink..and there isn’t a move out there that could change that😬
WATCH NOW: https://t.co/RryETtvGrK pic.twitter.com/6zuAnsxvCG
How long can the front office and ownership continue to trot out a subpar product in one of the most storied basketball cities in the country? Will drastic measures from the fans be necessary to turn things around, or will the continued record-breaking attendance and revenue numbers be enough to maintain the current trajectory?
