Noa Essengue appeared in just two games for the Chicago Bulls in 2025-26, logging six minutes total and missing all three shots before a season-ending left shoulder injury required surgery. The No. 12 pick from the 2025 draft, listed at 6-foot-8 and 200 pounds, spent the year rehabbing and adjusting to NBA demands before returning to full strength.

Essengue flashed two-way upside in four G League appearances, averaging 23.0 points, 6.3 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.3 steals and 1.0 blocks on 50.8 percent shooting. Those numbers highlight his potential as a versatile forward who can guard multiple positions and protect the rim once he adds strength. Pairing him long-term with Matas Buzelis and a projected top-four pick such as Caleb Wilson raises spacing and defensive questions, yet his raw tools for All-Defense impact justify keeping him in the mix rather than forcing a quick decision.

The Bulls should target meaningful minutes for Essengue in the 2026 summer league and training camp before evaluating his fit beside the new additions. That approach gives the 19-year-old another full offseason to bulk up and refine his jump shot.