Jalen Smith's Resurgence with the Chicago Bulls
In the dynamic world of the NBA, few stories are as compelling as a player's comeback. For Chicago Bulls big man Jalen Smith, the 2025-2026 season has been nothing short of a revival. After a challenging stretch last season, Smith has found his groove, and the numbers are speaking for themselves.
From Bench to Star: Smith's Journey
Last season, Smith's role with the Bulls diminished significantly. What started as a promising addition to the roster quickly turned into a series of struggles. Whether paired with Zach Collins or as the lone big man, Smith's performance on the court left much to be desired. It wasn't what the Bulls had hoped for when they signed him, and it wasn't what Smith envisioned for himself.
The Issue with the Two-Big-Man Lineup
Coach Billy Donovan had envisioned a two-big-man lineup that could dominate opposing teams, especially those with taller rosters. The acquisition of Zach Collins just before the trade deadline seemed like the perfect puzzle piece. However, the puzzle couldn't be completed without Jalen Smith contributing effectively. Every time Smith was on the court, it seemed like the Bulls' strategy faltered.
Empty Minutes and Missed Opportunities
"Lots of times when they threw me out there last year, I wasn’t being impactful," Smith admitted. "I was getting targeted [by the defense] a lot. I wasn’t rebounding. I wasn’t really doing anything to help the team." These empty minutes added up, and by April, Smith found himself on the end of the bench, in and out of the rotation with little consistency.
The Offseason Transformation
Disappointed but determined, Smith spent the offseason reflecting on his performance. He realized that if he wanted to secure a spot in the rotation, he needed to make significant changes. His main goal coming into the new season was simple: stay on the court. Whatever it took, he was ready to do it.
Focusing on Impactful Plays
Smith’s offseason was dedicated to mastering the plays that impact winning. Whether it was rebounding, defense, or simply being more engaged on the court, he was committed to improving every aspect of his game. The results of this dedication have been nothing short of impressive.
The Numbers Don't Lie
Through the first half of the season, Smith’s stats are a testament to his hard work. His plus-minus rating, a tricky stat to evaluate, is an astonishing plus-61 this season. This figure is significantly higher than that of any other player on the Bulls’ roster, signaling a profound impact on the team’s performance when he’s on the court.
A Key Rotation Piece Again
Smith’s resurgence has not only earned him a consistent spot in the rotation but also the respect of his coaches and teammates. Coach Donovan, who initially struggled to make the two-big-man lineup work, now sees a player who is making a tangible difference. Whether it’s Smith with Collins, Smith with Nikola Vucevic, or Smith as the lone big man, the team is performing better with him on the court.
The Future Looks Bright
As the season progresses, Smith’s role continues to grow. His ability to adapt and improve has not gone unnoticed. The Bulls are a stronger team with him contributing in meaningful ways, and there’s no doubt that he’s here to stay.
What Lies Ahead
For Jalen Smith, the future is bright. His journey from an end-of-the-bench player to a key rotation piece is a story of resilience, hard work, and determination. As the Bulls look to build a competitive roster, Smith’s transformation is a reminder that with the right mindset and effort, anything is possible.
Conclusion
Jalen Smith’s turnaround is a testament to his dedication and the Bulls’ commitment to player development. As he continues to make impactful plays, the team is reaping the benefits. For basketball fans, Smith’s story is a compelling reminder that the NBA is as much about personal growth as it is about team success.
