Amid Escalating Criticism, Billy Donovan Expected to Stay With Bulls—But Is There More Behind the Decision Than They’re Letting On?
In a move that’s already stirring up a firestorm among fans, the Chicago Bulls are reportedly planning to keep head coach Billy Donovan for yet another season—despite yet another year of underperformance, inconsistency, and a team that looked anything but playoff-ready. According to league insiders, the front office is choosing “stability” over “sweeping change,” but some are wondering if there’s a deeper reason behind the decision… and what it could mean for the future of the franchise.
After missing the playoffs and failing to build any real momentum in a watered-down Eastern Conference, many expected the Bulls to clean house this offseason. Instead, executive vice president Artūras Karnišovas and the front office are doubling down on Donovan, a coach whose system has faced mounting criticism for stagnating the growth of a roster that once held promise.
So why keep him?
Some insiders suggest the team is hesitant to hit the reset button completely, with key decisions looming around free agents, trade rumors, and potential draft picks. Others speculate that Donovan may have secured more internal trust than fans realize—perhaps playing a key role in player development behind the scenes, or being used as a bridge to a larger rebuild the franchise hasn’t yet revealed publicly.
And then there’s the money.
Donovan is still under contract, and with ownership not eager to pay two head coaches at once, financial factors could be driving the decision more than basketball logic. It’s a move that could either pay off big if the Bulls make a leap next season—or implode spectacularly if things go south early.
Fan reactions, unsurprisingly, have been harsh. Social media has erupted with disappointment and confusion, calling for accountability and vision—two things many feel have been missing from the franchise since the days of Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah.
Could the front office be playing a longer game, one that hasn’t yet been revealed to the public? Or is this simply another case of clinging to a flawed plan, hoping for different results?
One thing is certain: if Donovan doesn’t turn things around—and fast—the Bulls’ leadership might not just be defending a coach next season… they might be fighting to save their own jobs.
