Preseason Preview

The Bulls have been one of the major disappointments of the first half of the season. They currently sit as the eighth seed in the East. Coach Vinny Del Negro has spent much of the season fighting off rumors that his time in Chicago is done. Derrick Rose is actually averaging less assists and more turnovers per game than he did in his rookie campaign (although, he has been playing better since being slowed early from an ankle injury). The benefits of a healthy Luol Deng have been overshadowed by the loss of Ben Gordon and significant time missed by Tyrus Thomas due to a fractured forearm.

Ready to Breakout vs. Reality: It was predicted that John Salmons might lead the Bulls in scoring this year with the departure of Ben Gordon. In reality, Salmons production has dropped by 5 ppg as his FG percentage dropped from 47% to 40%. The real breakout star for the Bulls has been Joakim Noah, who is averaging 12.2 rebounds per game this year (up from 7.6), which is second only to Dwight Howard.

Over the Hill vs. Reality: Kirk Hinrich’s playing time has actually increased this year, and his production level has remained about the same. His points are slightly down, but his assists are up as compared to last year. Hinrich is only 29, a little young to be over the hill, but at 33 Brad Miller looks like he might be losing steam. Miller is playing less and averaging his lowest numbers in points and rebounds since his rookie year.

Worst Moment: From November 19 through December 15 the Bulls lost 11 of 13 games with six losses of 19 points or more. On December 28 rumors surfaced that Del Negro was out as coach, as soon as the Bulls found a replacement. Well, as of now Del Negro is still with the Bulls.

Best Moment: On January 3, Derrick Rose dropped 30 as the Bulls beat the Magic 101-93, a sign of what they can play like when they put it all together.

Best Case Scenario: The Bulls get it together and play like they are capable of and move up to the fifth seed (they are only a game and a half behind the Heat for fifth at this moment) and win their first round matchup.

Worst Case Scenario: They just miss out on the playoffs and wind up with the 12th pick in the draft, even a complete collapse would at least give the Bulls a top 10 pick.

NBA Midseason Reports