Chicago Bulls

By Vijay Vemu / Blog a Bull Intro by Ricky O'Donnell

The Bulls have the worst record in the NBA the last four years since trading Jimmy Butler. The team’s new front office decided that was no longer acceptable, and reloaded the roster with proven veterans. DeMar DeRozan, Lonzo Ball, Alex Caruso, and last year’s trade deadline acquisition Nikola Vucevic give the Bulls plenty of firepower around incumbent star Zach LaVine. Chicago traded numerous first round draft picks to get this roster in place, but the cost will be worth it to get out of the cellar and back into the playoff mix.

What’s the ‘Best Case’ scenario?

The offense clicks as expected with the additions of DeMar DeRozan and Lonzo Ball adding a huge boost to Chicago’s scoring threat. Zach LaVine takes a leap in overall play as well. The defense is better than expected and thanks to their offense, Chicago leaps into the 4th seed in the East.

What’s the ‘Worst Case’ scenario?

The offensive fit is a bit wonky and the new additions don’t live up to their potential. The defense turns out to be a big issue as it leaks points and is a major weakness. Chicago struggles to crack into the top eight of the East and finishes in one of the play-in spots.

What’s the ‘Most Likely’ scenario?

This team looks really fun on offense, especially in the fast break. The defense looks fine. Nothing great but serviceable. Lonzo really helps with the ball movement and DeRozan thrives with the spacing Chicago offers him. LaVine plays like a guy who is going to get a max contract and the Bulls finds themselves in the middle of the East playoff standings.

What are you most excited for?

All of the new additions. This has been the best Chicago Bulls offseason in a very long time. Lonzo Ball and DeMar DeRozan are players who will instantly help Chicago’s offense. LaVine already has shown he can score in bunches and Nikola Vucevic is a solid threat inside. Alex Caruso will give Chicago help at the point guard spot. I’m also interested to see what Coby White and Patrick Willliam’s roles are this season. Excited to see how Williams develops in his second year in the league. He showed some flashes of brilliance last season.