Ayo Dosunmu could be back in Chicago under the franchise’s new direction, as former NBA player and analyst Kendall Gill said the guard remains open to returning to the Chicago Bulls.
Speaking on 104.3 The Score, Gill said: “I know Ayo, from my conversations with him this summer, would be open to [returning to Chicago].”
The possibility comes at a significant turning point for the Bulls. The organization moved on from its previous leadership structure this offseason after dismissing executive vice president of basketball operations Arturas Karnisovas and general manager Marc Eversley on April 6. Head coach Billy Donovan later resigned on April 21, allowing new leadership to build its own foundation.
Chicago hired Bryson Graham as its new executive vice president of basketball operations on May 4, with the former Atlanta Hawks senior vice president of basketball operations tasked with reshaping a roster that finished 31-51 and missed the playoffs for the fourth consecutive season.
The Bulls also hired Tiago Splitter as their new head coach in June, beginning a rebuild that includes nearly $60 million in projected cap space and the No. 4 and No. 15 picks in the upcoming draft.
Dosunmu’s availability comes after a strong stretch with the Minnesota Timberwolves following his February trade from Chicago. In 24 regular-season games with Minnesota, he averaged 14.4 points, 4.2 rebounds and 3.5 assists while shooting 52.1% from the field and 41.4% from three-point range.
The 26-year-old guard also improved his value during the playoffs, averaging 15.6 points, 4.1 assists and 3.6 rebounds while shooting 50.0% overall and 42.5% from deep.
Minnesota reportedly wants to retain Dosunmu, but financial limitations could complicate that path. League sources indicated he could command a contract slightly above the midlevel exception, around $15 million annually, which may force the Timberwolves to make roster decisions elsewhere.
Dosunmu is entering unrestricted free agency after completing a three-year, $21 million contract. His two-way profile, shooting improvement and ability to play both on and off the ball have made him one of the more valuable guards available this summer.
For Chicago, bringing back a player drafted and developed by the franchise would fit the organization’s current timeline. The Bulls are entering a new era and could prioritize younger players who can grow alongside their upcoming draft selections.
Dosunmu spent his first four NBA seasons with Chicago, averaging 9.6 points, 3.5 assists and 2.7 rebounds during his Bulls tenure before the trade to Minnesota. With the franchise rebuilding, a reunion remains a possibility if the new front office views him as part of its long-term core.
