Bulls' Final Day of Regular Season Boosts Draft Lottery Odds

Chicago's loss to Dallas helps improve their chances at the top pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 3:25pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented basketball players and draft lottery imagery, using bold, clashing colors to convey the high-stakes energy of the upcoming draft.The Bulls' season-ending loss sets the stage for a pivotal NBA Draft lottery that could shape the team's future.Chicago Today

The Chicago Bulls ended their disappointing 2025-26 NBA season with a road loss against the Dallas Mavericks, sitting several key players. While the loss increased the team's odds in the upcoming draft lottery, the Bulls also received good news as the Portland Trail Blazers secured the eighth seed in the Western Conference, meaning Chicago will receive Portland's first-round pick if the Blazers make the playoffs.

Why it matters

The Bulls are in need of a major roster overhaul after several seasons of mediocrity, and securing a high draft pick could be crucial to their rebuilding efforts. The team recently underwent front office changes and is hoping for a fresh start with a new regime.

The details

In their final game, the Bulls gave up 80 points in the first half to the Mavericks and ultimately fell by a score of 149-128. This loss, however, helped improve Chicago's odds in the upcoming NBA Draft lottery, as they now hold the ninth-best chance at securing the number one overall pick.

  • The Bulls' regular season ended on Sunday, April 13, 2026.
  • The NBA Draft lottery is set to take place on May 10, 2026, coincidentally in Chicago.

The players

Chicago Bulls

The NBA franchise based in Chicago, Illinois that has struggled in recent seasons and is looking to rebuild through the upcoming draft.

Dallas Mavericks

The NBA team that defeated the Bulls in the final game of the regular season.

Portland Trail Blazers

The NBA team that secured the eighth seed in the Western Conference, meaning their first-round pick will go to the Bulls if they make the playoffs.

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What’s next

The Bulls will await the results of the NBA Draft lottery on May 10 to see where they will be selecting in the 2026 NBA Draft, which could be a crucial step in their rebuilding efforts.

The takeaway

The Bulls' disappointing season ended on a high note, as their loss to the Mavericks improved their draft lottery odds, and the Trail Blazers' playoff berth means Chicago will receive an additional first-round pick. This sets the stage for the team to potentially land a top draft pick and begin a new era of success.