Just a few hours ago, the Chicago Bulls added an intriguing piece to their roster. Three-time Slam Dunk contest champion Mac McClung was signed by the team, but only three hours later, another surprising update hit the timeline. The Bulls waived McClung, leaving fans wondering what could’ve possibly changed in that time. But as it turns out, the move is more strategic than it might seem at first.

The truth is a matter of procedure. McClung had reportedly signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Bulls and was then waived, which is a common front-office move used to direct players to the team’s G-League affiliates. By signing and then waiving McClung, Chicago now retains his services. Once his returning rights are acquired from the Osceola Magic, his previous team, his rights will be transferred to the Windy City Bulls. If he stays with the Windy City team for at least 60 days, he would be eligible for a bonus of up to $85,300.

For McClung, this is nothing new. The 26-year-old guard is best known for his uber-athletic Dunk Contest performances and earning G-League MVP honors, and is known as one of the most explosive players outside of the NBA.

However, despite his talent, he has struggled to find his place in the league, bouncing around the Lakers, 76ers, and the Magic in previous seasons. The Bulls’ roster is already filled with 15 guaranteed spots, so the sign-and-waive is a low-risk way of keeping McClung in the system without burning a spot on him.

Their reasoning is straightforward. Chicago runs extremely deep at their guard spots, with Josh Giddey, Coby White, Ayo Dosunmu, Tre Jones, Kevin Huerter, and Jevon Carter, and the front office is looking to keep the G-League pipeline steady instead of adding fringe bench-warmers.

Under GM Arturas Karnisovas, Chicago is leaning more into G-League development. McClung’s addition is valued for his interior scoring ability, complementing the Bulls’ G League pipeline strategy.

This is a test of patience for McClung, who averaged 25.7 points and 5.7 assists last season for the Osceola Magic, showing off effective interior scoring while leading the team to the G-League Finals.

If he can replicate this performance with Windy City, a call-up in case of emergency could follow. The Bulls will likely keep a close eye on him, especially eyeing his growth as a playmaker.

Bulls’ Backcourt Shake-Up Continues Amid Yuki Kawamura’s Release

McClung isn’t the only player cut from the Bulls’ main roster. Just after Mac’s release, Chicago confirmed the release of Japanese guard Yuki Kawamura from a two-way contract due to a medical condition. It was reported that Kawamura had been struggling with right lower-leg pain, which sidelined him in camp, and with his exit, Chicago now has an open two-way slot next to Lachlan Olbrich and Emmanuel Miller.

Kawamura departed after a promising Summer League tenure, where he impressed fans with speed and energy. Despite being the shortest listed player in the league at just 5’8, he is known for great court vision and a quick first step, which made him a fan favorite.

Despite a crowded guard room, the Bulls would’ve liked to keep him in Windy City to pair with McClung.

According to the insider Shams Charania, guard Trentyn Flowers is expected to be signed on a two-way contract to replace Kawamura.

Between the two cuts, Chicago’s ongoing uncertainty is highlighted: they’re still tinkering on the edge of the roster while searching for stability before opening night.