Chicago Festivals

Are you finding it difficult to uphold your New Year’s resolution to lead a healthier lifestyle? Has your workout routine become boring and rudimentary? Do you want to start your fitness journey but don’t know where? May it be a hotel wellness retreat, or new fitness studios in Chicago to explore, there is an answer to any fitness-related question right here in Chicago. Explore what is offered by numerous studios, gyms, and facilities with a wide range of equipment and classes to meet any need, and get your 2023 fitness calendar going!

2501 West Chicago Avenue, Chicago, 60622

Strength, cardiovascular-focused, mobility, flexibility, speed, agility, you name it and the coaches at the Garage Chicago will help you reach your goals. Whether it be personal training or one of their many group fitness classes, you will leave feeling invigorated. For those who need the extra push and methodical guidance, The Garage Chicago is for you. 

If you don’t believe me, check out what others are saying about their experience at The Garage Chicago. 

664 North Wells Street, Chicago, 60654

If you feel like you have tried everything in the book and traditional exercise isn’t for you, come experience revolutionary technology combined with full body training at Vibez fit. These classes involve a high-speed workout using vibration training to help strengthen and tone your body. Not convinced? Give it a try for just $7 for a week of classes. 

1714 N Damen Ave, STE 2N, Chicago, IL 60647

For those who love variety, SALT is your goto solution to bring life to a boring workout routine. They offer classes that everyone can enjoy and eventually wonder how they ever lived without it. Choose from barre, cycling or strength training classes and make functional fitness exciting again. 

2805 North Sheffield Avenue, Chicago, IL

Ready to take your mind-body connection to the next level? Experienced teachers will lead you through fast-paced yoga that connects your breath to the beat of the music. All while you flow in a 98 degree studio. The classes incorporate yoga philosophy, static postures, choreographed flows, yin, meditation, and a eucalyptus towel massage. 

This is truly a one of a kind experience your body will thank you for. 

6610 W Dakin St Chicago, IL 60634

This studio offers a range of classes like crossfit, strength training, yoga, martial arts and kickboxing. Not only are their classes diversified, they also coach under principles with your health as their number one priority. They also offer additional support with nutrition and believe regeneration is vital in every fitness journey. 

1550 N. Cleveland Ave, Chicago, IL 60610

While we all can work up a sweat dancing at the club, the tequila shots and late nights that got us here aren’t great for our health. If you are passionate about dancing and music and are looking to incorporate this into your lifestyle, look no further. Dance forever’s mission is to fuel these passions while achieving the year’s fitness-related goals. 

1642 West Division St, Chicago IL, 60622

High-intensity training is not for everyone (and frankly is sometimes too much stress on the body), but there are ways to get in shape without forcing yourself to endure another dreadful Instagram workout or fast-paced group fitness class. Solidcore offers  low-impact full body workouts designed to sculpt and strengthen your body. 

1357 West Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL 60642

Pilates has gone viral on social media for a reason, this actually works. Not only does pilates sculpt and tone your body, you obtain a ton of other benefits fundamental to your health. You will leave understanding more than you ever have previously. My personal favorite benefit is the posture work that is incorporated into each workout (you will know why if you are also hunched over your desk over eight hours a day). 

New to using a reformer? New members can save over $100 on two private sessions to help you get comfortable using the equipment. Once you become familiar, you’ll never go back. 

For even more fitness options, check out Classpass’s Chicago City Guide. Sign up now and get free credits to try activities for one month. Start your journey or switch up your routine for $0. Now you really have no excuses. 

Featured Image: SALT Fitness

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It feels like the new year started only a couple of days ago, and yet, we’re less than a week away from the month of February. While there’s plenty to look forward to next month in the world of sports, like the Super Bowl and the start of Spring Training for the MLB, only one thing is on our minds these days: the 2023 NBA All Star Game.

This year’s All Star Game includes the draft format the league presented us with six years ago. However, for the 2023 NBA All Star Game, things are going to be a little bit different.

Next month, right before the game takes place on February 19, both team captains will draft up their rosters and then head straight into play. The 2023 NBA All Star Game captains and starters were announced last night, with LeBron James named the West’s captain, and Giannis Antetokounmpo named the East’s. None of our local favorites were named starters last night, but we’ll dive right into who else was, which of our guys still has a shot to be a reserve, and some of our favorite Chicago Bulls All Star moments as we look forward to the 2023 NBA All Star Game!

Three voting groups determined the starters:

• Fans (50%) • NBA players (25%) • Media panel 25%)

Complete voting results here: https://t.co/M8btg7M0GP

Below are the overall scores for the top finishers at each position. pic.twitter.com/HQ9W20Z6Ke

— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) January 27, 2023

2023 All Star Game Starters

This season, the following players earned All Star Game starter status after fan, player, and media voting concluded:

East All Star Game Starters

Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks)

Kevin Durant (Brooklyn Nets)

Kyrie Irving (Brooklyn Nets)

Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics)

Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland Cavaliers)

West All Star Game Starters

LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers)

Zion Williamson (New Orleans Pelicans)

Nikola Jokic (Denver Nuggets)

Steph Curry (Golden State Warriors)

Luka Dončić (Dallas Mavericks)

Like we said before, none of our guys made the cut, but the Chicago Bulls still have a chance to represent in the 2023 NBA All Star Game.

Next Thursday, on February 2, the league plans to announce the reserve players for the game on the show NBA Tip-Off on TNT at 6 PM CST. Unlike starters which are selected by a combination of voters, where fans account for 50%, current players for 25%, and media for the other 25%, the reserves are chosen by all the 30 head coaches. And this is where the Bulls have a shot at sending a guy to the game.

It might only be one guy, and if we had to put our money on it, we’d bet that DeMar DeRozan is named a reserve for the 2023 NBA All Star Game. When he’s not named a starter like he was last season, DeRozan often gets in with the coach vote given his history in the league. To add to that, he finished 4th in player voting in the East and 6th in fan voting. 

Joel Embiid and Jaylen Brown are almost a given to be selected as reserve representatives for the East, and we have no reason not to believe DeRozan won’t be there in one of the other 5 openings.

Our Favorite ASG Bulls Moments

His Airness Wins The Dunk Contest

He may have taken home his first All Star Game MVP trophy back in 1988, but what Michael Jordan did in the dunk contest that year might be more impressive.

Going head-to-head with fellow hall of famer, Dominique Wilkins, both players put on a show in what is considered one of the best dunk contests in league history. Jordan’s famous free-throw line dunk helped secure the victory for the GOAT. And the way he glided through the air on that attempt led him to earning the nickname Air Jordan for life.

MJ Makes History

In his second full season back after returning from his time-off playing baseball, Michael Jordan once again found himself in the NBA All Star game in 1997. The year prior, Jordan found himself winning All Star MVP, but what he did the year after is one for the record books.

After leading the NBA with over 2.4 million votes, which is 600,000 ahead of the second-highest player, Jordan went on to notch the first triple-double in NBA All Star game history with 14 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists. Even though he didn’t win back-to-back All Star MVPs with that impressive feat, one of his teammates managed to walk away with an award during the weekend.

Kerr Shoots Like Curry

While his teammate was out creating All Star Game history, Steve Kerr created a bit of personal history during the three-point contest in 1997.

Going against defending three-point contest champion, Tim Legler, Kerr edged him out 22-18 in the final round to secure his first ever three-point contest win. It was the fourth attempt of his career, and up until that point he had only ever finished as high as 3rd.

And now, he coaches one of the greatest three-point shooters in the history of basketball. Funny how that works.

D-Rose Ends Our Drought

Following the Jordan-era Bulls of the 90s, the franchise would find themselves without an All Star player for the entirety of the 2000s. That all changed with a young Bull in 2011.

In his first All Star Game appearance, Derrick Rose finished with eight points, four assists, and three steals in his 15 minutes of play off the bench. It wasn’t the flashiest of performances, but his participation in the game brought the Bulls back to the All Star Game, and the trend continued for the rest of the decade to today. The year prior to his first All Star appearance, Rose won the Skills Challenge during his rookie season, and has been the only Chicago Bull to ever win the competition.

You can watch the 2023 NBA All Star Game on Sunday, February 19 at 7PM CST on TNT and TBS. Don’t forget to tune in a bit early, because the All-Star Draft will take place right before the big game. Earlier in the weekend, the popular All-Star Celebrity Game and Rising Stars Challenge will take place on Friday, February 17. And then on Saturday, there will be an HBCU Classic at 3PM CST followed by the skills challenge, three-point contest, and slam dunk contest.

Visit the NBA’s website to learn more about the upcoming NBA All-Star weekend!

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One of the coolest things about Chicago businesses is how conscious and aware they often are. As we know, Windy City is all about equality and diversity. From the many queer-owned small businesses to larger establishments prioritizing providing a safe, inclusive experience for every guest, Chicago stands at the forefront of developing a healthy, respectful, and accepting environment for all.

Among all the booming industries in Chicago’s business world, the travel and hospitality industry is undoubtedly a leading player and showcases Chicago’s inclusiveness the most. This year, Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel is recognized as a 2022 Gay Travel AwardsSM winner in the U.S. City Hotel category.

GayTravel’s Founder, Steve Rohrlick, said:  “The goals of the GayTravel Awards are two-fold: first, to recognize achievement among inclusive travel-related companies and destinations; and second, to inspire other companies and brands around the world to embrace a broad spirit of diversity and inclusiveness as well as continuous improvement in hospitality excellence.  Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel epitomizes these values, and on behalf of GayTravel.com, we congratulate them!”

Image Credit: Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel

Located at 1 W. Wacker Drive, Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel is perfectly situated in The Loop along the Chicago River. This 560-room hotel puts you in the exciting heart of Chicago and near countless attractions in the Windy City providing guests with an inspiring and exhilarating experience.

Boasting comfortable rooms, elegant interiors, and luxury amenities. the hotel is a travelers’ favorite and a local spot when Chicagoans plan for a staycation in Chicago. Featuring local artwork in the lobby, performance talents in the musical hall, the hip, uplifting urban rooftop bar RAISED, and a full-size indoor pool, the Hotel provides a true Chicago experience on its premise.

“We are thrilled to have been selected as a winner as we always strive to inspire and exhilarate our guests, offering them a space where they can wholeheartedly be themselves,” said Kristin Duncan, General Manager for Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel. “Treating our guests like friends and family is at the core of who we are.”

Image Credit: Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel

For those looking for a true Chicago experience, the hotel is located right in the city’s heart, facing the beautiful riverwalk and only blocks away from some of Chicago’s most iconic and diverse neighborhoods, such as the theatre district. With the 2023 Chicago Theatre Week coming up, a stay here will immerse you in the arts from wake to sleep. Meanwhile, art lovers will be delighted to find the Art Institute of Chicago, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the River North art district within a stone’s throw from the hotel. As for the foodies: the Fulton Market, one of Chicago’s most diverse, booming dining and drinking scenes, is right around the corner, too.

For more information on Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel, please visit www.marriott.com/chisr or follow the hotel on Instagram at @RenChicagoDowntown or on Facebook at @RenaissanceChicagoDowntownHotel.

Featured Image: Renaissance Chicago Downtown 

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The 4th Annual West Loop Wedding Walk returns on Sunday, February 5th, 2023 from 12pm-5pm. The West Loop Wedding Walk was created to give couples a chance to see their wedding dreams come to life. A portion of the ticket proceeds benefits Wish Upon a Dress and Wish Upon a Wedding, a Chicago-based nonprofit that grants weddings and vow renewals to couples facing serious illness or life-altering health circumstances. Tickets for the 4th Annual West Loop Wedding Walk can be purchased here.

Couples will spend the afternoon visiting all the unique & amazing venues in the West Loop while enjoying staged venues with food, drinks, and goodies all while meeting some of Chicago’s best wedding vendors. Transportation will be provided between locations for all attendees. The first 150 attendees will receive a swag bag. Couples who are struggling on deciding where to start in the planning process will get expert direction and advice while they tour each space.

Check-in and shuttles will begin promptly at 12 pm. Guests can arrive at any location they wish, tour the venue, meet vendors, and gather inspiration. When they are ready to head to the next location, trolleys and transportation will be stationed to take them to the next venue. No need to worry about parking in multiple locations or taking public transportation between venues. Guests can start wherever they wish and head to the next location all at their own leisure.

This year’s participants include The Publishing House, City View Loft, The Arbory, The Carter, Venue West, Wildman BT, Room 1520, Ovation, Fairlie, City Hall, and Morgan MFG! Venues and vendors will showcase wedding dresses, venue designs, invitations, flowers,  and other wedding necessities, accompanied by light bites and drinks to keep your mood high. If you’re about to start your wedding planning, the “walk” is here to help you turn you visualize your big day in all the perfect ways.

Tickets range from $15 per Individual Guest, $25 per Couple (2 tickets), and $30 per vendor and must be shown at the first location to receive a wristband that grants visitors continued access along the “walk.” Tickets include access to visit, tour, and talk with experts at participating venues; drinks, light bites, and entertainment; access to wedding vendors including florists, photographers, bands, DJs, and makeup artists; transportation between venues on a designated route, and booking incentives, discounts, and goodies.

The 4th Annual West Loop Wedding Walk is sponsored by CHI thee WED, Chicago’s first local inclusive wedding and vendor directory, featuring contributors (curators) who either own a wedding-related business or work directly in the Chicago wedding industry.

Featured Image: Andrew Weeks Photography

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If you have lived in the midwest for some time now, you probably have become accustomed to one of our most beloved pastimes: dining out. Because it is one of the few activities we have to keep us entertained during the colder months, chances are we aren’t always that hungry for a full meal (or have the funds to continuously eat out). Thankfully, there are tons of restaurants that are perfect for a light bite in Chicago. Since some of these spots are participating in Chicago Restaurant Week, make sure you go check their special menu out before Sunday, February 5th!

114 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607

The first stop on the list is Trivoli Tavern. Trivoli is a Chicago cult favorite and for good reason. The culmination of a timeless ambiance and unbeatable happy hour specials makes this the ideal spot for a light bite and perhaps a teeny martini if you have a taste for something a bit stronger. They offer tasty sharing plates like pigs in a blanket, oysters, and sliders of your choice. 

https://www.instagram.com/p/CoA_CRfu1wN/

1462 E 53rd St., Chicago, Il 60615

Another Chicago gem with exceptional small bites. Virtue is the perfect spot to satisfy your comfort food fix. While you can never have enough comfort food, there is no denying the generous helpings usually leave you in a food coma. Lucky for you, Virtue gives you the best of both worlds. Enjoy a catfish slider or two and a few buffalo mac and cheese croquettes while catching up at the bar with a friend. Light fares and great company make for a wonderful Chicago evening. 

200 N Green Street Chicago, IL 60607

Chicago rooftops are by far one of the best places to grab a bite with a friend, get to know a new colleague, enjoy a romantic date, spend quality time with the whole family, or escape for some much-needed alone time. Cabra offers both delectable small plates and gorgeous Chicago views from atop the Hoxton.

Their Peruvian small plates breathe even more life into an already lovely ambiance. You cannot go wrong with the shrimp or duck ceviche. It’s light, flavorful, and refreshing for the palette. For my vegetarians, the avocado dip or grilled shishitos are the perfect light bite. 

1000 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607

While Swift & Sons is a sleek and sophisticated steakhouse, this doesn’t disqualify them as one of the best places for a light bite. Their seafood is fresh with a coastal-grade quality that makes for the ideal small plate to share with friends or family. The Swift & Sons cold platter is a seafood lover’s dream and offers a balanced variety of light seafood options. The platter includes a chilled shrimp cocktail, king Crab, oysters, and salmon tartare. 

3920 Lawerence Ave, Chicago, IL 60625

High-quality, affordable sushi, what else is there to want out of a restaurant? Why it may seem like a peculiar choice, but no restaurant compares to being named the best Chicago restaurant for light bites. They have a wide selection of sashimi and nigiri rolls to keep your selection light, affordable, well-versed, and delicious. I can think of no better girl’s night in or wine night with a partner than with a platter of sushi from Lawrence Fish Market. 

837 Fulton Street, Chicago, IL 

The Publican is known for doing oysters the right way (some would say it’s one of the best ways in the city). Oysters are the ideal light bite. They are small but still can be prepared with a depth of flavor that still satisfies. If seafood isn’t your cup of tea, they also have wonderful small plates like bread and charcuterie plates. 

302 N. Green Street Floor 3, Chicago IL, 60607

I think we can all agree that a great chip and dip is a classic light bite that always hits the spot. The elevated version of this dish to me with smooth, creamy hummus and warm pita bread. This small plate is the cherry on top of any occasion out with loved ones. It is the type of light bite that is meant to be shared over an engaging conversation. 

Aba offers several hummus dishes with an immense depth of flavor that delivers in each bite. If you want something even lighter, the whipped feta is airy, complimented by the saltiness of the crushed pistachios, and balanced with the citrus from the lemon zest.

311 N. Sangamon St., Chicago, IL 60607

If you’re looking for variety in your light bite experience, head to Fulton Market Kitchen for a handful of options that will not disappoint. I would highly recommend bringing a friend or two a sampling a little bit of everything. These small plates pack a sophisticated punch into every bite, yet are not overly filling. 

3143 W. Logan Blvd., Chicago, IL 60647

What do you get when you combine an elegant ambiance, hand-crafted cocktails, good company and light bar bites? The answer is always Billy Sunday. If the light bite you seek is a tasty snack to accompany a drink or five, then look no further. They offer an assortment of charcuterie plates, curried nuts, marinated olives, pickled vegetables, and puppy chow. 

74 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654

On the days you’re not feeling a heavy meal, some hummus spread, mezze, and spiced bread might hit the spot. Ema is definitely one of the best places for a light bite in Chicago — and a relaxing time! Go through the main restaurant and make yourself a lunch box from Rotisserie Ema, or explore their regular menu.

Featured Image: The Publican

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Tyris Bell, who helped start the acclaimed Luella’s Southern Kitchen with his brother Chef Darnell Reed, and served as its general manager for eight years, will open his own establishment, Bell Heir’s BBQ (704 W. 47th Street, Chicago; 773-420-3685) on February 3. Designed primarily as a takeout restaurant, the venue will feature signature dishes including Rib Tips and Houston-style Barbecue Turkey Legs.

Image Credit: Bell Heir’s BBQ

“I am such a lover of barbecue that when I decided to open my open restaurant, it was an easy decision to take my great-grandmother Luella’s wonderful recipes and serve them up to the many barbecue lovers in Chicago,” said Bell. “Luella was a major influence on our entire family. Her recipes and high standards of food preparation are what inspire me every day. My goal is that Bell Heir’s BBQ will rise above the crowd of Chicago barbecue joints and be considered one of the best.”

Bell knows that barbecue brings people together. The menu is designed for at-home family dining just like he enjoyed with his parents, Stephanie and Anthony Bell and 5 siblings. Guests can order in-person, by phone or online and bring the food home for a delicious family style meal.

“Some of my best memories are of our family sitting down together to enjoy wonderful barbecue and other family recipes,” said Bell. “When the table conversation at home quieted down, it was because we were too busy eating to talk. I will be thrilled when our guests have the same feeling of joy being together while they enjoy our great barbecue and comfort food.”

Image Credit: Bell Heir’s BBQ

The menu features two sections: main dishes and sides. The signature dish is a Rib Tip Dinner served with Fries ($16.99); a large order of smoked rib tips served wet. Another standout is the Rib Tips & Chicken Combo ($21.99) featuring a large order of rib tips served with 4 fried chicken wings. A unique dish is the Slagel Farms Smoked BBQ Turkey Leg ($16.99), a Houston-style creation smothered with baked Mac ‘n Cheese. Fried chicken lovers will enjoy the Fried Chicken Wings with Fries, brined and battered chicken wings served with fries and barbecue sauce, available in a 3-piece ($4.99) or 6-piece portion ($9.99).

Brisket and burger lovers will rejoice at the unique BBQ Brisket Cheeseburger with Fried Pickles and Fries ($16.99), featuring the best of both worlds: two 4oz Slagel Farms ground beef patties topped with BBQ Brisket, cheese and fried pickles, and served with Fries. Another brisket lover’s favorite is the BBQ Brisket Mac ‘n Cheese ($14.99) a hefty portion of gooey baked mac ‘n cheese smothered with savory BBQ Brisket. Take your fries to a new level with the Smothered Fries with Cheese and choice of Pulled Pork or BBQ Brisket ($14.99), topped with jalapenos and drizzled with barbecue sauce.

Image Credit: Bell Heir’s BBQ

If pulled pork is your passion, choose the Nachos with choice of BBQ Brisket or Pulled Pork ($14.99) featuring fried-to-order tortillas layered with cheese, jalapenos and house made barbecue sauce. Side dishes ($5 each) include Coleslaw in a creamy vinegar sauce; Baked Mac ‘n Cheese; Fries drizzled with BBQ sauce and topped with jalapenos; Fried Pickles, and BBQ Baked Beans.

As a takeout-focused restaurant—limited seating is available—Bell Heir’s BBQ encourages guests to bring the food home for a delicious family style meal. Guests are encouraged to spread the word by posing for selfies in front of the wall-sized Bell Heir’s BBQ logo.

Featured Image: Bell Heir’s BBQ

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Aside from the abundance of restaurants featuring unique cuisines, one of Chicago’s most iconic hospitality scenes is collaborations between chefs bridging the gap between food from around the world. This February, the two executive chefs from Tanta Chicago and Jinesei Motto will bring food lovers a unique fine dining experience for a limited time in the form of a 16-course dinner from Feb. 9 thru Feb. 11 for $195 per person. Reservations are now available via OpenTable,

Image Credit: Mistey Nguyen

The mastermind behind Tanta’s innovative Peruvian menu, Chef Roberto Rocha grew up in a restaurant owned by his parents in Peru and found refuge and identity within the kitchen. Graduating with a Graphic Design degree, Chef Roberto utilizes his creative and artistic eye by playing with colorful ingredients when creating his dishes. With his passion for innovation and creation, Chef Roberto relishes in his opportunity to touch the hearts of each Tanta guest with bold and unique flavors influenced by Peruvian traditions and modern gastronomy.

Image Credit: Mistey Nguyen

From Thursday, February 9th to Saturday, February 11th, guests can experience an exclusive collaboration event where Executive Chef Roberto Rocha of Tanta (one of the highest-rated restaurants in Chicago) will be joined by Patrick Bouaphanh, the executive chef at MICHELIN-recognized Jinsei Motto.

For $195/person, guests will receive an expertly crafted 16 course Omakase-style dinner! For those interested in pairing their dishes with cocktails, a specially curated drinks list will also be available. This event will be an elevated dining experience where both chefs will present each dish to the attendees, explaining the inspiration and background behind each.

This three-day collaboration will be happening at Tanta (118 W. Grand Ave). There will be two seatings each night: the first seating begins at 5:30 PM and the second seating takes place at 8:15 PM. Secure your reservation today via OpenTable, or by visiting https://www.tantachicago.com/.

Featured Image: Mistey Nguyen/Tanta Chicago

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As we approach the upcoming NBA trade deadline, not a day goes by where we don’t see some Chicago Bulls trade rumors. They’re everywhere. No matter where you get your NBA news, whether it’s the Twitter timeline, Instagram feed, or ESPN app, chances are you’ve seen some of the trade scenarios that are out there by now.

So with all the Bulls trade rumors, is it really time for the team to blow things up? We’re no experts at managing NBA franchises, but maybe.

What Bulls Trade Rumors Are Out There?

Where do we even start?

Alex Caruso, Zach LaVine, Nikola Vučević, or even an injured Lonzo Ball. Pretty much any name on the roster has been involved in a Bulls trade rumor these days. With that being said, let’s start with some of the guys who are less likely to be moved at the deadline.

Alex Caruso

Despite what opposing franchises may be hoping for, we just don’t see the Bulls moving on from Alex Caruso at all. Like a few other guys, he’s practically untouchable as the heart of the defense and foundation for the team’s culture. And Billy Donovan seems to echo the same sentiment. 

When Caruso’s on the floor, the Bulls are one of the top defensive units in the entire NBA with a defensive rating of 110.7. And when you give him a breather? That rating drops dramatically to 116.8. A number that’s one of the worst in the league. To add to all of that, he leads the team in plus/minus with +117 on the year.

So, to put it simply, if you see a Bulls trade rumor involving Alex Caruso before February 9, just chalk it up as some classic clickbait and ignore it entirely.

Lonzo Ball

Another guy we’ve seen named by ESPN in their latest NBA trade deadline column. But for us, it’s not happening.

Given the bleak outlook Billy Donovan recently provided on Lonzo Ball’s recovery, odds are few, if any, teams will pursue him at the deadline. Sure, he could be packaged up with another player or two – which is what ESPN proposed in their blockbuster scenario, but we’ll touch on that later. However, with everything going on with Ball, it’d be a bit of a risk for any franchise. Especially since the Bulls likely wouldn’t let him go for nothing.

So Who’s More Likely To Be Dealt?

Honestly, the last two guys on our list from above: Zach LaVine and Nikola Vučević. 

Zach LaVine

Since he was named in ESPN’s post, we’ll start with Zach first.

It’s not the craziest of Chicago Bulls trade rumors whenever you see LaVine listed nowadays. After agreeing to a 5-year max contract extension worth $215 million over the summer, LaVine’s first year on his new deal likely isn’t 100% of what the Bulls were hoping for. Some fans probably want to see LaVine moved while others aren’t quite there yet. But, given that he’s entering his prime and has a massive contract, moving him is a possibility. 

In ESPN’s proposed trade, the Bulls would send LaVine, Ball, and Javonte Green to the Lakers for Russell Westbrook, Patrick Beverley, Max Christie, and two unprotected first round picks in 2027 and 2029. That’s a lot of pieces, and IF it happened, it basically signals that the Bulls are electing to start rebuilding. And it’s not entirely out of the question with all the talk about the strained relationship between LaVine and Donovan.

Nikola Vučević

Between all three guys that make up the Chicago Bulls ‘Big Three’, we see Nikola Vučević as the one most likely to be dealt before the 2023 NBA trade deadline.

For starters, things haven’t really panned out for Vučević on the Bulls. He’s the third scoring option behind DeRozan and LaVine, and excluding the past month, hasn’t seemed to mesh well with the Bulls style of play. Additionally, Vučević is set to be an unrestricted free agent this summer when he inevitably doesn’t reach an extension with the Bulls. 

After giving up two first round picks to acquire him, would the Bulls really want to let him walk for nothing? Not likely.

It’s tough to point to any player on our roster and say that they should go. But with Vučević, it might be time. Should it actually happen, there’s a strong chance that he would add immediate value to whatever team he joined. Especially if he continues playing the way he has the past month. 

Only time will tell to see if any such deal occurs. But, if we had to put our money on any Bulls trade rumors this year, it’d be the ones that involve our big guy.

This year’s NBA Trade Deadline is on Thursday, February 9 at 2PM CST, and you can visit the NBA’s website to keep track of all the action.

Featured Image Credit: Chicago Bulls’ Instagram

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Some of us enjoy going out to a Super Bowl watch party, but others prefer to gather with friends at home. However, this doesn’t mean you must sacrifice quality. This year, order your Super Bowl catering from these Chicago restaurants to take the best watch experience home. Let the pros do the cooking and ask your friends to bring beers. You just take the best seat on the couch and relax!

Image Credit: Meadowlark Hospitality

2200 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

This Super Bowl Sunday, elevate your game day experience with catering from Logan Square’s MICHELIN Bib cafe + salumeria! Kick off with Lardon’s Hot Reuben Dip — a one-of-a-kind reimagination of their best-selling Reuben sandwich, made with house-smoked pastrami, gouda cheese, fancy sauce, and pickles, along with rye and sourdough points for digging in.

For lunch, enjoy platters of their fan-favorite artisan sandwiches, including the Italiano, Finocchiona & Butter, and Hotel California, or even one of their large format salads. Watch your team score as you nosh on a Signature Game Day Charcuterie & Cheese Board, with all the house accompaniments needed for optimal enjoyment. Pre-orders can be made here, 48 hour notice is required.

Image Credit: Mistey Nguyen

118 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60654

Celebrate the big game on Sunday, February 12th while indulging in Peruvian classics in the comfort of your own home! Tanta is offering Game Day Pollada To-Go Kits (serving up to four people) for $80 each to help those staying in elevate their game day experience. While rooting on your chosen team, enjoy a three lb whole chicken, papitas doradas con choclo, salchipapa (famous street food of Lima), and more!

All kit orders must be placed by Saturday, February 11th at 8:30 PM. Pick up will be Sunday, February 12th from 12 PM-4 PM. To order your kit as well as find further details, please do so via Tock, or by visiting https://www.tantachicago.com/happenings.

Image Credit: Hilary Higgins Photography

1415 N Wood St, Chicago, IL 60622

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