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Bulls’ Three-Center Plan Hits A Wall With Claxton Injury
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- Bulls’ Three-Center Plan Hits A Wall With Claxton Injury
Matt Marton-Imagn Images
The Chicago Bulls might not be done adding bodies to their frontcourt. Even with three centers already on the roster, new reports suggest the team is eyeing another option.
This move looks odd on paper. The Bulls just signed Nic Claxton and re-signed Zach Collins. They also brought back Jalen Smith. That gives them three capable bigs for the 2026-27 season. Yet, the front office is still looking. Head coach Tiago Splitter has even talked about playing all three centers to keep fresh legs on the floor. So why chase Cisse?
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Claxton's Injury Changes the Math
The real reason is simple: Nic Claxton is not ready to play. The team needs help right now, not in a month. On Monday, Splitter told reporters that Claxton is "ramping up" and will be out for the next two weeks. By then he will be re-evaluated, making his target return date uncertain.
That leaves the Bulls thin at center for the start of the season. They have an open roster spot after waiving four training camp invites earlier this week. Keeping that spot open gives them flexibility. But if a young, athletic player like Cisse falls into their lap, why pass?
"Claxton is doing some spot shooting as we Tweet," Bulls reporter KC Johnson said on the social media platform, X. "Splitter clarified that Claxton is progressing and will be evaluated throughout and the two-week window is just an approximation."
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Why Cisse Fits the Rebuild
The Bulls are in a rebuilding year. Finding young talent is the primary focus. Cisse is only 24 and stands six-foot-eleven. He appeared in 38 games for Dallas in the 2025-26 season. He brings energy and size that could help a young nucleus. The Mavericks chose to waive veteran Dwight Powell instead of the younger big man on Monday afternoon.
Other teams like the Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, and Los Angeles Lakers were also linked to Cisse. The Hawks do not have an open roster spot. The Sixers and Lakers would need Cisse to clear waivers for a two-way deal. This fits their plan of keeping options open while hunting for upside.
The front office has shown they are not afraid to move fast. They traded for Buddy Hield before camp and signed Jordan Hawkins after he was let go by New Orleans. If Cisse hits the market, the Bulls will likely be ready. The question is not if they want him. The question is if they can get him before the other teams make their move. With Claxton out, the need is real. The opportunity is right there.
