Bulls Finish 31-51 | Billy Donovan Decision Delayed & Matt Lloyd Leading FO Search

Locked On Bulls - Daily Podcast On The Chicago Bulls30mApril 13, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

The Chicago Bulls' 2025-26 season concluded with a 31-51 record, securing the ninth-best odds in the NBA draft lottery—giving them a 20.3% chance at a top-four pick and a 4.5% shot at the number one overall selection. The episode dives into the immediate offseason priorities, centering on the uncertain future of head coach Billy Donovan, whose decision has been delayed due to personal reasons, including the recent passing of his father. Hosts debate whether Donovan will stay, leave, or wait to see the draft outcome, emphasizing that the Bulls cannot afford to delay key hires like a new GM or head coach. The focus then shifts to Matt Lloyd, a former Bulls scout and current Timberwolves executive, who is emerging as a top candidate for the front office role. While his familiarity with the franchise and track record in Minnesota are praised, the hosts express cautious optimism, noting past missteps like the Julius Randle trade and the Zach Eady draft pick. The episode underscores that this offseason is critical: with cap space, draft capital, and a completely open roster, the Bulls have a rare window to rebuild strategically. The hosts stress the need for a GM who can make bold, data-driven decisions and avoid emotional or reactive moves, especially in light of past misfires under AK and Eversley.

Key Takeaways
1

The Bulls are in a unique position to rebuild with a top-10 pick, cap space, and no immediate coaching or roster constraints.

2

Billy Donovan’s future remains uncertain, but the team cannot afford to wait on his decision—key hires must move forward regardless.

3

Matt Lloyd is a leading candidate for GM due to deep familiarity with the Bulls’ history and success in Minnesota, but past decisions raise questions about his judgment.

4

The draft is not a 'weak' class—talent exists throughout, and the Bulls must avoid overvaluing one player while missing opportunities in the second round.

5

Avoiding emotional trades (like signing players who beat the Bulls) is crucial; the team should focus on long-term development over short-term revenge.

…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
2 min

Sponsor: State Farm & Capital.com

Introductory sponsor segments for State Farm and Capital.com, promoting insurance and trading platforms with tailored messaging.

2:00
3 min

Bulls Season Wrap: 31-51 & Draft Lottery Odds

The Bulls did lose, which means they locked in the ninth best odds in the draft lottery.

Highlight
5:00
5 min

Billy Donovan's Future: Delayed Decision & Legacy Risks

If you fail, it could change the entire opinion of Billy Donovan moving forward.

Highlight
10:00
5 min

GM Search: Matt Lloyd as Front-Runner

I love that he has that little bit, that fire to him a little bit too because we're going to need somebody who's going to be willing to push back a little bit.

Highlight
15:00
5 min

Draft Strategy & Talent Evaluation

The hosts debate the quality of the upcoming draft, dismissing the notion that it's weak. They emphasize the need to identify talent beyond the top four picks and avoid emotional or reactive trades.

High-Impact Quotes
If you fail, it could change the entire opinion of Billy Donovan moving forward.
Pat14:42
Viral: 85.0
Don't get enamored by somebody that beats you. That's the Chicago way, right? You go sign the dude that made you look bad.
Jake25:50
Viral: 80.0
I love that he has that little bit, that fire to him a little bit too because we're going to need somebody who's going to be willing to push back a little bit.
Jake27:11
Viral: 78.0
Speakers

Hosts

JakePat
Topics Discussed
Billy Donovan's Future95%Front Office Search92%Bulls Draft Lottery Odds90%Matt Lloyd as GM Candidate88%Offseason Rebuild Timeline87%Draft Strategy & Talent Scouting85%Roster Evaluation & Player Trades80%Legacy & Coaching Impact75%
People & Brands

Chicago Bulls

other

35xNeutral

Billy Donovan

person

28xMixed

Matt Lloyd

person

22xPositive

Leonard Miller

person

15xPositive

Rob Dillingham

person

12xNeutral

AK

person

12xNegative

Josh Giddey

person

8xNeutral

Julius Randle

person

6xMixed

Michael Reinsdorf

person

6xNeutral

Zach Eady

person

5xNeutral

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