Warriors Call Bulls About Jalen Smith Trade

Golden State is reportedly seeking a center to replace the injured Kristaps Porzingis, and Chicago's Jalen Smith is among the options discussed.

Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Basketball

Warriors Call Bulls About Jalen Smith Trade

The Golden State Warriors called the Chicago Bulls about a trade for center Jalen Smith, sources say. The Warriors are looking to replace Kristaps Porzingis, who has an ongoing illness that will likely keep him from playing this season.

Why it matters

Porzingis' $40 million, two-year contract is expected to allow a receiving team to slash payroll, which may make his salary a factor in any deal. Golden State needs frontcourt depth as it works to fill the gap left by his absence.

Smith is averaging 11.0 points and 7.8 rebounds this season, shooting 28.2% from three after hitting 37.3% last year. His salary is $9.4 million this season within a three-year, $27 million contract, and the status of any potential deal remains unconfirmed.

The players

Golden State Warriors

The Golden State Warriors are an NBA franchise based in San Francisco Bay Area that compete in the Western Conference.

Chicago Bulls

The Chicago Bulls are an NBA franchise based in Chicago that compete in the Eastern Conference.

Jalen Smith

Jalen Smith is a center for the Chicago Bulls who was selected 10th overall in the draft by Phoenix.

Kristaps Porzingis

Kristaps Porzingis is a Latvian center who signed a two-year contract with the Golden State Warriors and is currently dealing with an illness.

The details

The Warriors called Chicago about Smith, sources say, as Golden State looks to replace Porzingis. Smith injured his hand against the Knicks on Wednesday and did not return to the game.

Wednesday: Smith injured his hand against the Knicks and did not return to the game.
Two weeks into the new season: League teams are reluctant to make trades.

Season Trajectory

League teams are reluctant to make trades two weeks into the new season, so the Warriors' early pursuit of Smith stands out against that pattern. The move reflects Golden State's need to address its frontcourt after Porzingis' illness.

Smith's current numbers, including 11.0 points and 7.8 rebounds, bear directly on fantasy rosters if he changes teams. A trade would also shift how minutes are distributed in both the Warriors' and Bulls' frontcourts.

The takeaway

Early-season trade talks can signal how quickly a contender is willing to act on a roster hole. Fans tracking Smith's production should watch whether the Warriors pursue the deal before the market tightens.