Bulls Rumors: Billy Donovan Potential HC Target After Parting Ways with Thunder

The Chicago Bulls are reportedly "expected to have an interest in considering" Billy Donovan for their coaching vacancy, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, after Donovan and the Oklahoma City Thunder mutually parted ways Tuesday. 

Per Wojnarowski, Chicago is just "completing a first round of interviews with several candidates."

Woj added that the Philadelphia 76ers, Indiana Pacers and New Orleans Pelicans could be potential suitors for Donovan, while Sam Amick of The Athletic reported that Donovan "is expected to be a candidate for the Sixers' opening," along with Los Angeles Clippers assistant Tyronn Lue. 

Donovan's contract expired following the 2019-20 season, and he reportedly wasn't on the same timeline as the Thunder, who are expected to transition into a rebuild:

That calls into question whether Donovan would be the right fit for the Bulls. Chicago is largely built around a young core of Wendell Carter Jr. (21), Zach LaVine (25), Lauri Markkanen (23), Otto Porter Jr. (27) and Coby White (20). That group has potential, but it lacks a true superstar. It's hard to imagine a Chicago team that went 22-43 this past season making the jump into contention next year. 

Unless the Bulls can convince Donovan on a plan to go star-hunting this offseason—with some appealing young players and the No. 4 overall pick, Chicago could offer some interesting trade packages—openings in Philadelphia, Indiana or a potential vacancy in Houston could be more appealing to him. 

One thing is for certain: Donovan will receive a lot of interest, both at the professional and college level. It would be surprising if he was jobless for long.