Chicago Bulls Block Knicks’ Move for Billy Donovan, Eye Contract Extension Amid Rebuild

The Chicago Bulls have reportedly turned down a request from the New York Knicks to interview head coach Billy Donovan, signaling their intent to retain him as a long-term part of their franchise rebuild. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Bulls are currently in discussions to extend Donovan's contract, which still has one year remaining.

This development comes after the Knicks parted ways with head coach Tom Thibodeau following the 2024–2025 season. As the Knicks explore potential replacements, Donovan emerged as a top candidate.

However, the Bulls' swift rejection of New York's request underscores their confidence in Donovan's leadership during a pivotal transition period for the team.  

Read More: https://www.esnnews.com/post/dallas-mavericks-draft-cooper-flagg-nba-lottery-2025 Donovan, who took the reins in Chicago back in 2020, has coached 400 games with the Bulls.

His current deal, extended quietly before the 2022–23 season and only made public in November of that year, is approaching its final year. Before his tenure in Chicago, Donovan spent five seasons with the Oklahoma City Thunder and made a name for himself in college basketball with the Florida Gators.

Despite a regular season record of 195–205 with the Bulls and only one playoff appearance in five years, Donovan’s presence provides continuity as the team enters a new era. The Bulls finished the past two seasons with identical 39–43 records, narrowly missing significant postseason success.

Now embarking on a roster retool, the Bulls have moved on from veterans Zach LaVine and Alex Caruso, pivoting to a younger core. Promising talents like Coby White, rookie Matas Buzelis, and the recently acquired Josh Giddey are expected to be the foundation of the franchise moving forward — and Donovan appears poised to guide that evolution.

Read More: https://www.esnnews.com/post/nba-finals-2025-thunder-vs-pacers-new-era By choosing to secure Donovan’s leadership amidst interest from rival teams, the Bulls are making a statement: they are committed to stability, development, and a long-term vision — even in the midst of a competitive Eastern Conference landscape.