When it comes to the history of basketball, few teams have left such a strong mark as the Chicago Bulls. Known globally for their dominance during the 1990s and the legendary legacy of Michael Jordan, the Bulls are not just a team—they’re a brand. Over the decades, the franchise has paid top dollar to retain, rebuild, and redefine its roster, investing heavily in stars meant to elevate Chicago back to championship contention.
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Chicago Bulls
The Chicago Bulls are one of the most iconic teams in NBA history, known worldwide for their dominance during the 1990s. Founded in 1966, the team became a household name thanks to the legendary Michael Jordan, whose partnership with Scottie Pippen and coach Phil Jackson led the Bulls to six NBA championships between 1991 and 1998. Their fast-paced style, fierce defense, and global appeal transformed the Bulls into a basketball dynasty and helped the NBA grow internationally. The United Center, dubbed “The House That Jordan Built,” became a symbol of the Bulls’ golden era and their place in sports history.
In the modern era, the Chicago Bulls have undergone multiple rebuilds as they attempt to regain their championship form. The post-Jordan years have seen flashes of hope—most notably with Derrick Rose, who won MVP in 2011—but injuries and inconsistency plagued sustained success. While not yet at the level of their 90s glory, the Bulls remain a respected name in the league, backed by a passionate fanbase and a legacy that continues to inspire future generations of players and fans.
TOP 5 most expensive players in Chicago Bulls history
Over the decades, the Chicago Bulls have invested heavily in star power, signing huge contracts. These high-value deals reflect the team’s evolving strategies—from building championship contenders to reshaping the roster around rising stars. In today’s NBA, where salary caps rise and player value is constantly shifting, these expensive contracts tell the story of the Bulls’ priorities and ambitions in different eras. Below are the five most expensive players in the team’s history based on contract size and impact.
- Carlos Boozer
- Luol Deng
- Michael Jordan
- Derrick Rose
- Zach LaVine
As the Bulls look toward the future, these investments serve as a blueprint—and a reminder—of the cost of ambition in professional basketball. Big contracts don’t guarantee titles, but they do signal a commitment to growth and a belief in building something greater. For a team still chasing its next golden era, understanding these deals is essential to understanding the team’s identity and its pursuit of another championship run.
5. Carlos Boozer
- Money per game: $256,250
- Highest Bulls salary: $15,300,000 in 2013-14 (No. 21 in the NBA that season)
- Bulls stats: 15.5 ppg, 9.0 rpg, 2.0 apg, 49.1 FG% in four seasons
Carlos Boozer signed a five-year, $71,750,000 contract with the Chicago Bulls in 2010 as part of the team’s big free agency push that year. Although Boozer was not the primary target (the Bulls were pursuing LeBron James and Chris Bosh), he still brought offensive position and rebounding power to the rapidly growing team. Paired with Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah, Boozer helped the team become a consistent playoff contender in the early 2010s.
Though his defense was often criticized, Boozer contributed solid numbers and veteran stability. His contract, while hefty at the time, made sense given the salary cap and the team’s urgent need for frontcourt scoring. In hindsight, he may not have lived up to the full value of the deal, but he was a key part of one of the most competitive Chicago Bulls squads since the Jordan era, helping the team reach the Eastern Conference Finals in 2011.
4. Luol Deng
- Money per game: $114,583
- Highest Bulls salary: $14,312,125 in 2013-14 (No. 28 in the NBA that season)
- Bulls stats: 16.1 ppg, 6.4 rpg, 2.5 apg, 46 FG% in 10 seasons
Luol Deng spent the majority of his NBA prime with the Chicago Bulls, becoming one of the most dependable and hardworking players of his generation. Drafted 7th overall in 2004, Deng quickly proved himself as a versatile forward known for his defensive grit, mid-range scoring, and team-first mentality. Over his ten seasons with the Bulls, he played a crucial role during the team’s post-Jordan rebuilding era and was instrumental in the rise of the early 2010s Bulls led by Derrick Rose. His all-around contributions earned him two All-Star selections and a strong reputation as one of the league’s most respected professionals.
Financially, Deng earned nearly $73 million during his time in Chicago, making him one of the highest-paid players in franchise history. His contracts reflected his consistency and value to the organization, especially during years when the Bulls were legitimate contenders in the Eastern Conference. Though never flashy, Deng’s impact went beyond the stat sheet—he brought leadership, stability, and a tireless work ethic that coaches and teammates relied on. His time in Chicago is remembered fondly by fans who appreciated his dedication to the Bulls’ success on both ends of the floor.
3. Michael Jordan
- Money per game: $91,108
- Highest Bulls salary: $33,140,000 in 1997-98 (No. 1 in the NBA that season)
- Bulls stats: 31.5 ppg, 6.3 rpg, 5.4 apg, 50.5 FG% in 13 seasons
Michael Jordan is undeniably the most iconic figure in Chicago Bulls history—and arguably in the entire sport of basketball. Drafted by the Bulls in 1984, Jordan quickly rose to prominence with his unmatched athleticism, killer instinct, and clutch performances. Thanks to his play, the Bulls won six NBA championships during the 1990s. Known for his scoring titles, MVP awards, and unrelenting competitiveness, Jordan was more than just a star player—he became a cultural icon and a symbol of excellence in professional sports.
While player salaries in his era were significantly lower than today’s massive NBA contracts, Jordan’s impact was so profound that his market value transcended traditional earnings. In his final two seasons with the Bulls (1996–1998), he earned record-setting one-year deals—$30.1 million and $33.1 million respectively—making him the highest-paid player in the league at the time. Beyond the court, Jordan’s influence extended into endorsements, branding, and the global expansion of the NBA.
2. Derrick Rose
- Money per game: $235,316
- Highest Bulls salary: $20,093,064 in 2015-16 (No. 9 in the NBA that season)
- Bulls stats: 19.7 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 6.2 apg, 44.8 FG% in seven seasons
Derrick Rose, the hometown hero and youngest MVP in NBA history, once held the most lucrative contract in Chicago Bulls history. In 2011, he signed a five-year, $95,538,276 extension under the NBA’s “Derrick Rose Rule,” which was designed to reward star players early in their careers. At the time, the deal was a no-brainer—Rose was the face of the team, and expectations were sky-high after his MVP campaign and deep playoff runs.
Unfortunately, his tenure was marred by devastating injuries that limited his ability to meet the full potential of the deal. Still, Rose remains one of the most beloved players in Chicago Bulls history. His contract reflected both his immense talent and the hopes of an entire city. Though his career took a different trajectory, his influence on the Bulls’ brand and identity endures to this day.
1. Zach LaVine
- Money per game: $338,965
- Highest Bulls salary: $37,096,500 in 2022-23 (No. 19 in the NBA that season)
- Bulls stats: 24.5 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 4.4 apg, 47.2 FG% in six seasons
Zach LaVine tops the list as the most expensive player in Chicago Bulls history, thanks to the five-year, $118,298,717 max extension he signed in 2022. This deal was a major commitment by the Bulls, signaling their belief in LaVine. He became a two-time All-Star while consistently averaging over 20 points per game. His contract makes him not only the highest-paid Bull ever, but also one of the top earners in the NBA during the current era.
LaVine’s presence has helped the Chicago Bulls remain competitive during a transitional phase, and his impact on the court has kept fans hopeful for a deeper playoff run. Despite some criticism about the deal’s size, his contributions in scoring, perimeter shooting, and leadership are undeniable. For a team still chasing the dominance of its championship years, LaVine represents a modern star with the ability to light up any scoreboard and anchor the team both financially and athletically.
Conclusion
In the ever-changing world of NBA salary caps, player valuation, and championship aspirations, the Bulls’ most expensive players reflect the cost of ambition in professional sports. While not every contract led to a title, they each contributed to defining an era, captivating fans, and keeping the team competitive. As Chicago continues its pursuit of greatness, these deals offer insight into what it takes—financially and strategically—to build a contender in one of basketball’s most iconic cities.
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