A rare player-for-player swap in today’s NBA, Saturday’s Lonzo Ball–Isaac Okoro deal made headlines, but it’s the other guy who might quietly revive his career in the Windy City.

Okoro, a Georgia native and former No. 5 overall pick, heads to Chicago after an underwhelming stint with the Cavaliers. Once billed as Cleveland’s long-term wing stopper, Okoro showed flashes as a rookie but was eventually pushed aside by a crowded wing rotation and the Cavs’ shift toward more offensive firepower.

Now 24, Okoro gets a fresh start on a rebuilding Bulls team with low expectations and a young core that fits his timeline. A McEachern High School star turned Auburn standout, Okoro brings defensive toughness and transition juice. If given the keys to develop properly, he could become a foundational piece on a roster suddenly full of hope.

Chicago’s youth movement is now clear. Matas Buzelis and rookie Noa Essengue could be a good wing pairing long-term. Add in Josh Giddey, rookie center Lachlan Olbrich and now Okoro, and that’s a five-man unit that screams potential and fits a modern rebuild.

What’s next? Moving Coby White at his highest value would free up more touches. And Patrick Williams, a slight disappointment thus far, may not have a place in this new era. General manager Marc Eversley should be rebuilding, not reloading or retooling, because nothing is there.

While Ball’s career remains up and down due to his injury history, Okoro is still very much alive. Don’t be surprised if he finally thrives in Chicago’s open floor.