Reinsdorf Outlines Communication as Key for Next Bulls Front Office Leader

Bulls owner Michael Reinsdorf says the team's next head of basketball operations must be a strong communicator both internally and externally.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 5:36am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a basketball game or competition, with sharp planes of red, black, and white representing the complex dynamics within the Chicago Bulls' front office as they seek a new leader to align the organization and connect with fans.A cubist interpretation of the challenges facing the Chicago Bulls' front office as they search for a new leader to communicate a clear vision for the franchise's future.Chicago Today

Chicago Bulls owner Michael Reinsdorf was transparent in outlining the key qualities he is seeking in the team's next head of basketball operations, with communication being a top priority. Reinsdorf acknowledged that previous front office leaders, including Arturas Karnisovas, have struggled with effectively communicating the team's plans and vision to both the media and fans. The new hire will need to be adept at aligning the entire organization and building connections across the NBA.

Why it matters

The Bulls have struggled to compete at the highest level for years, and Reinsdorf's admission that communication has been a persistent issue within the franchise's front office helps explain some of those struggles. Improving transparency and aligning the organization around a clear plan will be crucial for the next front office leader to get the Bulls back on track.

The details

Reinsdorf said the Bulls' next head of basketball operations must be a strong communicator, both internally within the organization and externally when speaking to the media and fans. He noted that previous leaders like Arturas Karnisovas were not always the best communicators, which made it difficult for the organization to be on the same page and for the fanbase to understand the team's plans and vision.

  • Reinsdorf made these comments earlier this month when discussing the front office shake-up that saw Karnisovas and GM Marc Eversley depart the organization.

The players

Michael Reinsdorf

The president and COO of the Chicago Bulls, who is leading the search for the team's next head of basketball operations.

Arturas Karnisovas

The former head of basketball operations for the Chicago Bulls, who Reinsdorf acknowledged struggled with effectively communicating the team's plans and vision.

Marc Eversley

The former general manager of the Chicago Bulls, who departed the organization along with Karnisovas.

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What they’re saying

“We have a history at the Bulls in the top position, other than Pax, they haven't always been the best communicators, going back to the days of Jerry Krause. It wasn't one of Arturas' strengths, ok? In terms of communicating with the media. I want someone who is really strong in communication. Not just internally within the organization but also externally when he is talking to people like you, when he is talking to our fans. What are we trying to accomplish? What is the plan? Our fans have a right to understand what we're trying to accomplish. So, I think that is incredibly important.”

— Michael Reinsdorf, President and COO, Chicago Bulls

What’s next

The Bulls will conduct a thorough search for their next head of basketball operations, with communication skills being a top priority in their evaluation of candidates.

The takeaway

Reinsdorf's emphasis on communication highlights how critical it is for the Bulls' next front office leader to align the entire organization around a clear vision and effectively convey that plan to both the media and the team's passionate fanbase. Improving transparency and building trust will be essential for the new executive to get the franchise back on track after years of struggle.