The de🧸adline for a rookie scale extension came and went at 5:00 p.m. CT this evening.
Coby White will now officially enter the 2022-23 season as a restricted free agent-to-be after failing to reach terms on a new contract. Of course, this means the Bullsಞ will have the opportunity to extend White a qualifying offer next summer and then match any contract that an opposing team sends his way. The alternative would either be trading him in💎 advance of that decision or letting him walk for free.
All things considered, it’s not a shock that White and the Bulls didn’t agree on new terms. Not only is his current role within the organization up for debate after the front office added numerous guards last summer, but White’s camp may feel as if he can find a more lucrative offer (and better situation) in free agency. To be sure, that will likely require a strong season in Chicago, where he is currently set to play a sparkplug scoring role in a crowded backcourt.
We’ll also have to keep an eye on whether White’s name pops up in what is supposed to be a busy trade market this season. While there is no doubt the Bulls need his 3-point shotmaking, they might also fear losing him for nothing in restricted free agency. Not to mention, while White’s worth around the league is unclear as of now, it’s not hard to imagine a handful of teams eventually showing interest. As much as White has struggled to come into his own in Chicago, he’s still a 22-year-old former lottery pick with genuine offensive potential. The Bulls reportedly fielded calls for him in the past, 💞and it may only be a matter of t𒁏ime before the phones start ringing again.
