The Chicago Bulls have started a formal search process to hire a new top executive with full authority on basketball decisions, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.
Ownership has discussed this plan of action with Executive VP of Basketball Operations John Paxson and general manager Gar Forman. Paxson is likely to continue in an advisory role with the franchise; but Forman, whose role is expected to be mostly reduced to scouting, could face questions about his future as well.
The Bulls plan to seek permission to interview Denver Nuggets general manager Arturas Karnisovas and Toronto GM Bobby Webster, among several other candidates. Interviews will start next week and will be conducted electronically, per Wojnarowski.
Many in need of a front-office restructuring have aimed for Raptors president Masai Ujiri, who still has a year left in his contract. Webster succeded Ujiri as the GM in 2017 and has been a pillar in the team's rise to a title in 2019 and to second place in the East this season.
Webster helped pull off the trade for Kawhi Leonard last season and was one of the minds behind drafting the likes of reigning Most Improved Player Pascal Siakam and undrafted players like Fred VanVleet.
Karnisovas has been president Tim Connelly's right hand man, helping shape the Nuggets into a Western Conference contender. Denver has also drafted well with players like Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray.
Paxson was hired as general manager in 2003 to replace Hall of Famer Jerry Krause. He was elevated to the title of Executive VP in 2009, promoting Forman to his former job.
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