The Chicago Bulls have secured center Nic Claxton in a three-team trade ahead of the 2026 NBA Draft, according to a team source. The move addresses Chicago’s impending void in the frontcourt, as both Zach Collins and Nick Richards are expected to enter free agency this offseason.

Claxton, standing 6-foot-11, brings veteran experience and rim protection to the Bulls’ roster. He remains under contract for two more seasons, with salaries scheduled at $23 million for 2026-27 and $21 million for 2027-28. The Bulls are acquiring Claxton using available salary cap space, which means the transaction will not be finalized until July 6.

The multi-team deal also involved the Brooklyn Nets and Minnesota Timberwolves. The Nets unloaded some salary commitments and received All-Star forward Julius Randle as well as the 28th overall pick in the upcoming draft from Minnesota. In turn, the Timberwolves reportedly used the cap space created to re-sign former Bulls guard Ayo Dosunmu to a five-year, $112 million contract extension.

This acquisition by the Bulls signals a shift in their draft strategy. With Claxton filling the center position, Chicago’s focus at the 15th overall pick in Tuesday’s draft could pivot away from big men, potentially targeting guards or other skill sets depending on player availability. Should the Bulls select Caleb Wilson at No. 4, guard could become a priority later in the draft if the opportunity arises.

Bulls executive vice president of basketball operations Bryson Graham moved swiftly to make this roster adjustment, ensuring the team is better positioned in the frontcourt as it heads into the new season.