In one of the biggest falls from grace in recent Chicago-sports memory, the Bulls are now back in full rebuild mode. Through the first eight games, Chicago stands at 2-6, ranking at or near the bottom in every statistical category, but somehow they’re still staying competitive through games. Though the organization won’t openly admit it, there’s a certain way they want this season to turn out, fans will surely do it for them. So, here I am to give you the best and worst case scenarios for this year’s Chicago Bulls.
The Best Scenario
Exactly what is transpiring right now.
As stated above, the Bulls, when you look at the stats, haven’t been particularly competitive through eight games. Right now, sitting at 2-6, Chicago ranks dead last in FG%, 2P%, assists, steals, and total PPG. However, the eye-test tells a different story.
In their last game against the Pelicans that ended in a 90-96 loss, DeMarcus Cousins was asked after the game about the Bulls giving them all they can handle. Warning; his answer may shock you. “They’re probably top three hardest playing teams in the league at this point.” *Gasp!* Hardest playing teams, you say? Well, he’s not wrong.
Four of their six losses have been by 10 or fewer points, and one of their wins came against a hot Orlando team (no pun intended) who are currently 6-3. A major factor for their competitiveness has been the emergence of rookie Lauri Markkanen. The argument for Markkanen as the second most impressive rookie, behind Ben Simmons, has been legit so far, as he’s leads the Bulls’ focal point offensively, leading the team in PPG with 16.3. Throw in 9 RPG and a 37.9 3P%, and you have yourself a case for ROY.
Helping his case is an endorsement from a pretty good player in the league, LeBron James, after seeing Lauri first hand after their contest on October 24. “Very confident,” James said, repeating that twice. “Watched him a lot at Arizona. He wore my shoes a couple of times. He actually did. He wore my retros. I liked that. Had to stay up very late to watch those Arizona games. But can shoot the heck out of the ball. He’s going to continue to get better.
“The best thing about it is he’s getting an opportunity,” James continued. “So you can make mistakes and learn on the fly. He’s going to play a lot because he’s learning. He’s a good player.”
Of course, Lauri will have to stay consistent with his play, but Hoiberg keeping him in the starting lineup will be key. He’s by far (at least until LaVine returns) their best offensive weapon. The Bulls should continue to run the offense through him so that his development continues.
With all of that said, the best possible scenario for the Bulls this season is to stay competitive so that their young players develop, but coupled with the most important ingredient; losses. A 2018 draft position outside of the top two would be a rebuilding-bust.
The Worst Scenario
Hoiberg said plan is for LaVine to be cleared “for some contact” on West Coast trip Thanksgiving week.
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) November 6, 2017
While I’m excited to see Zach LaVine in a Bulls uniform, his comeback could throw a wrench into a good thing the Bulls have going.
Adding LaVine to an already seemingly overachieving squad could result in more wins, obviously hurting their chances at snagging the top pick. LaVine will look to take the reigns as the Bulls’ lone potential All-Star type talent. Being that this is the last year that the lowest seed gets the highest draft-lottery percentage before the system changes, the Bulls can’t afford to start stringing together wins.
Another addition in terms of talent could be backup (for now) second-year PG Kris Dunn. Dunn had a rough freshman season in Minnesota and is looking to revive his swagger that made him the fifth overall draft pick. His athleticism is his best asset, as he can put almost anyone on a poster, but much of his game leaves you wanting more. He’s not the best passer and doesn’t have a reliable jump shot. If Hoiberg could somehow tap into Dunn’s potential, it would provide them with continuity at the PG position, which hasn’t been seen in Chicago since Derrick Rose (when he was healthy). Sure, this would be a great sign for the Bulls long term, but it seems that one of the only things the Bulls need to start winning games is a solid player at PG to help give Markkanen the ball in his preferred spots. Keep your talents hidden just for awhile longer, Kris, for the betterment of the team…
Finding a perfect balance of competitiveness coupled with gaining traction towards a top pick is certainly an art-form. Lauri already is starting to pump the breaks on snagging a potential star in this years draft. We don’t need guys like Zach LaVine and Kris Dunn making it even worse.
When you really think about it, wouldn’t it be so “Bulls” to actually make the playoffs as the eighth seed, fall out of the lottery, and draft some try-hard, Bobby Portis/Denzel Valentine type of role player? While I agree with the rebuilding decision made by management, I don’t trust them to construct it successfully.
For now, we’ll gladly take those L’s.
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