Bulls Coach Donovan Challenges New Guards to Improve Defense

Chicago's midseason roster overhaul has yet to pay dividends as the team struggles to win with its new-look backcourt.

Feb. 11, 2026 at 10:07pm

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After trading for four new guards before the NBA trade deadline, Chicago Bulls coach Billy Donovan is calling on the new additions to step up on the defensive end. Donovan said the team's guards, including Jaden Ivey, Anfernee Simons, Collin Sexton, and Rob Dillingham, need to be more disruptive and physical on the ball to help the entire team improve its defensive identity. The Bulls have lost three straight games since the roster changes, and Donovan acknowledged the challenge of integrating so many new players midseason.

Why it matters

The Bulls' defensive struggles have been a major factor in their recent losses, and Donovan is hoping the new guards can provide a boost on that end of the floor. With guard Tre Jones sidelined by injury, the new additions will need to fill that defensive void. Donovan sees this as an opportunity to reshape the team's identity and get the Bulls back on track, even in a season full of changes.

The details

The Bulls made a flurry of trades before the deadline, acquiring guards Jaden Ivey, Anfernee Simons, Collin Sexton, and Rob Dillingham. Ivey brings speed and ball-handling, Simons adds scoring punch, Sexton is known for his energy and two-way play, and Dillingham provides versatility. However, the new-look backcourt has yet to gel, as the Bulls have lost three straight games since the trades. Donovan is now challenging the new guards to improve their defensive effort and physicality, saying they need to be 'more disruptive' to help the entire team.

  • The Bulls made the trades before the NBA trade deadline on February 5, 2026.
  • The Bulls have lost three straight games since the roster changes.

The players

Billy Donovan

The head coach of the Chicago Bulls, tasked with integrating the team's new roster additions and improving their defensive performance.

Jaden Ivey

A guard acquired by the Bulls in a trade with the Detroit Pistons, known for his speed, athleticism, and ball-handling skills.

Anfernee Simons

A guard acquired by the Bulls in a trade with the Portland Trail Blazers, adding scoring experience and a quick, alert presence on the court.

Collin Sexton

A guard acquired by the Bulls in a trade with the Cleveland Cavaliers, known for his aggressive drives and nonstop energy on both offense and defense.

Rob Dillingham

A young draft pick acquired by the Bulls, providing flexibility and potential as a versatile guard.

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What they’re saying

“I do think with Jaden [Ivey], Anfernee [Simons], Collin [Sexton], Rob [Dillingham] . . . we're going to have to be more disruptive . . . Our guards have to be better on the ball defensively. They've just got to be more physical on the ball. That would help with the size and the rolls at the rim.”

— Billy Donovan, Head Coach, Chicago Bulls (Chicago Sun-Times)

What’s next

Donovan said the focus in the coming weeks will be on the players' adjustments, learning to work together, and staying resilient. If the new guards can step up on defense, they can help the Bulls stay competitive despite the midseason roster changes.

The takeaway

Donovan is using the roster overhaul as an opportunity to reshape the Bulls' defensive identity, challenging the new guards to be more disruptive and physical on the ball. The team's recent struggles highlight the importance of defensive effort and teamwork, not just individual talent, as the Bulls look to turn things around with their new-look backcourt.