Chicago’s coaching search continues to expand as the franchise moves deeper into its organizational reset ahead of the 2026 NBA offseason.
NBA insider Jake Fischer reported on Tuesday, May 19, that the Bulls intend to seek permission to interview two assistant coaches: Charlotte Hornets assistant Lamar Skeeter and Atlanta Hawks assistant Ryan Schmidt.
Skeeter is currently part of the Hornets’ coaching staff under head coach Charles Lee. His background includes a long development track that began in the G League with the Canton Charge in 2012–13 before roles with the Atlanta Hawks and Utah Jazz, where he progressed from video analyst to assistant coach over a decade-long stretch.
He joined Charlotte in 2024 after nearly 10 years with the Jazz organization, working under Quin Snyder and Will Hardy. His résumé also includes Summer League head coaching assignments and prior consideration for an NBA head coaching vacancy, reflecting his experience in both development and system-building environments.
Schmidt, meanwhile, has been part of the Hawks coaching staff since 2023 and brings a more international and G League-heavy résumé. He previously led the London Lions to three championships in a single season in 2022–23 and earned Coach of the Year honors in that span, while also gaining head coaching experience in Canada’s Elite League with the Hamilton Honey Badgers.
Chicago’s interest in external candidates comes as the franchise continues a sweeping restructuring. The Bulls recently hired Bryson Graham as executive vice president of basketball operations, with Stephen Mervis added as senior vice president of basketball operations and Acie Law as vice president of player personnel.
The organization has shifted direction following a 31–51 season and a fourth consecutive year outside the playoffs. Former leadership, including Arturas Karnisovas and Marc Eversley, was dismissed earlier in the offseason as part of a broader reset.
Chicago also holds the No. 4 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, a key factor in shaping the timing and profile of its coaching hire. The roster already includes young core players such as Josh Giddey and Matas Buzelis, making player development and system alignment central priorities for the next head coach.
With Billy Donovan stepping down last month, the Bulls are evaluating a wide pool of candidates as front office alignment and long-term roster planning take priority.
