Bulls Seek New GM as Reinsdorf Prioritizes Retaining Coach Donovan

Team president emphasizes communication, integrity, and a patient approach to rebuilding the franchise

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:51am

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A fractured, abstract painting depicting a basketball game or match, with sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in vibrant colors representing the dynamic energy and shifting perspectives of the sport.Reinsdorf's strategic vision for the Bulls' rebuild aims to reshape the team's leadership and culture through a collaborative, transparent approach.Chicago Today

Chicago Bulls team president Michael Reinsdorf has set the stage for a significant shift in the team's leadership, emphasizing the importance of retaining head coach Billy Donovan and seeking a new general manager who can effectively communicate the team's vision to fans. Reinsdorf's approach reflects a focus on stability, integrity, and a patient, strategic approach to rebuilding the franchise.

Why it matters

The Bulls' decision to move on from their current front office leadership and Reinsdorf's emphasis on retaining Donovan signals a shift in the team's approach to rebuilding. This could have significant implications for the team's roster, draft strategy, and overall direction as they look to become a 'real and sustainable winner' in the NBA.

The details

Reinsdorf believes Donovan's proven track record and deep playoff experience make him invaluable to the team, and he envisions a more collaborative role for the head coach in personnel decisions. The CEO's decision to move on from vice president Arturas Karnisovas and general manager Marc Eversley after six years underscores the need for a new direction, with Reinsdorf seeking a new top decision-maker who can effectively communicate the team's goals and plans to the fans and media.

  • The Bulls finished the 2025-26 season with a 29-49 record.
  • Reinsdorf's comments about the team's future direction came in a recent interview.

The players

Michael Reinsdorf

CEO and team president of the Chicago Bulls, who is leading the search for a new general manager and emphasizing the importance of retaining head coach Billy Donovan.

Billy Donovan

The current head coach of the Chicago Bulls, who Reinsdorf believes is invaluable to the team's future success due to his proven track record and deep playoff experience.

Arturas Karnisovas

The former vice president of the Chicago Bulls, who is being replaced as part of the team's leadership changes.

Marc Eversley

The former general manager of the Chicago Bulls, who is also being replaced as part of the team's leadership changes.

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What they’re saying

“We must retain Billy Donovan as our head coach. His experience and leadership are crucial to our future success.”

— Michael Reinsdorf, CEO and Team President, Chicago Bulls

“Tanking is unfair to the coach, players, and fans. We're committed to building a real and sustainable winner through competition and effort.”

— Michael Reinsdorf, CEO and Team President, Chicago Bulls

What’s next

Reinsdorf will lead the search for a new general manager who can effectively communicate the team's vision and work collaboratively with head coach Billy Donovan to build a successful and sustainable franchise.

The takeaway

Reinsdorf's emphasis on stability, communication, and integrity in the Bulls' rebuilding process suggests a thoughtful and strategic approach that could set the team up for long-term success, in contrast to the more common 'quick fix' mentality in the NBA.