Bryson Graham hasn’t wasted any time making moves with his staff this week as the NBA Draft Combine takes place in Illinois.
Whether it’s cutting ties with the NBA G League GM–or adding a former player to help with scouting and development–Graham is making sure to put his own strong staff together as the Bulls embark on a new journey.
On Thursday morning, the Bulls agreed to bring another addition to the front office. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Bulls are adding Stephen Mervis to the operation.
The new hire comes from the Orlando Magic. Mervis served as the Assistant GM in Orlando. In Chicago, Mervis gets promoted to Senior Vice President of Basketball Operations, working under Graham.
Bulls Get Props From The NBA World
Based on the initial reaction from key voices around the NBA world, the Bulls are adding a quality executive to the mix.
Steph Noh, Sporting News: “Asked around about Mervis and here’s what I heard.
-Extremely smart executive
-Strong in trade negotiations and general strategy
-Well-connected with other execs throughout the league
Seems like a great hire for the Bulls.”
Ricky O’Donnell, SB Nation: Mervis is deeply connected around the league, and should be able to help with other hires. I’ve also heard he’s fantastic with cap management and negotiation. Great addition to the Bulls front office by Bryson Graham.
Shams Charania, ESPN: Mervis spent 12 years rising in the Magic front office, specializing in strategy and player evaluation. Meanwhile, Law held scouting, draft-focused roles for the Kings and Thunder from 2018-25. He played four NBA seasons, including part of 2009-10 in Chicago, and was teammates with Graham on the men’s basketball team at Texas A&M.
Orlando Magic Daily: Big step up for longtime Magic basketball operations executive Stephen Mervis (he was one of the few carryovers from Rob Hennigan). Mervis assisted with the team’s cap management, scouting and CBA matters, among other responsibilities, according to the team’s media guide.
Jake Fischer, The Stein Line: Stephen Mervis, whoâs joining Bryson Graham as a top lieutenant in Chicago, is one of the more regarded cap minds in the NBA⦠and been a backbone of the annual Tulane Pro Basketball Negotiation Competition.
The Bulls Are Making Major Changes
GettyCHICAGO, ILLINOIS – FEBRUARY 26: Head coach Billy Donovan of the Chicago Bulls reacts against the LA Clippers during the second half at the United Center on February 26, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
The 2026-2027 Bulls will be revamped.
The new front office is going through major changes from top to bottom, and the coaching staff will be different as well. Although Billy Donovan signed an extension last summer and had the full support of the team, he decided to step down.
Chicago will still be in a rebuild, but this season marks the start of a new journey.
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