Chicago Bulls Preview 2021
Our Chicago Bulls preview 2021 notes that from 1990 to 1998 this team made the playoffs every season and won six NBA Championships. The 1997-1998 season was the last time the Bulls proudly held the Larry O’Brien Trophy . After that there have been various dry spells, and during those years when Chicago did play in the postseason, they never made it past the semifinals. The end of the 2020-2021 season marked the fourth straight time that this team finished under .500 and did not earn a ticket to the second season. The Chicago Bulls’ record of 31-41 (.431) placed them 13th in the East. One spot away from a play-in berth. That alone could be a sign that things are changing for the better on the hardwood in Chicago.
Bulls Frontcourt
The one position in front that is lacking is power forward. Last season, his first in the NBA, Patrick Williams had a tough time maintaining a high level of play. Williams is still finding his way, and until he does, power forward will be a weak link. On the other hand, small forward is in fine shape. Former Raptor and Spur DeMar DeRozan brings 20-plus points per game, close to seven assists, and a shooting percentage of almost 50% to the floor. He’s a massive playmaker. Troy Brown Jr., who played with Washington for two-plus seasons, arrived partway through last season but was hampered by an ankle injury. He’s an athletic wing capable of offering quality minutes. The Bulls can use his skill and talent.
Center is solid, as former Orlando Magic front man Nikola Vucevic offers double-double point production and rebounding. Plus, he can hit from virtually anywhere . Also, our Chicago Bulls preview 2021 finds that Tony Bradley, who’s much traveled over a short time (three NBA teams in four seasons), does offer fine shooting and rebounding chops, while untested Marko Simonovic possesses the potential to provide quality minutes.
Chicago Bulls Preview – Backcourt
After two seasons with the Lakers and two with the Pelicans, Lonzo Ball comes to the Bulls as their primary point guard. Ball can shoot twos and threes, dish off assists, and defend. He’s a much-needed, quality addition. Backing him up, Coby White comes off the bench to generate points.
At shooting guard, veteran Zach LaVine is a massive scorer. Last season, he averaged 27.4 PPG while hitting 50.7 percent from the floor and 41.9 percent from downtown. Plus, he led the team in minutes with 35.1 per game. New addition Alex Caruso (a.k.a. Mr. Hustle) comes from the Lakers where he spent his first four NBA seasons. Caruso is an accurate shooter, fine defender, and smart player.
Chicago Bulls Preview 2021 – Final Word
The fact is four years ago the Bull franchise decided to let the team go down the tubes. Now, they have decided to rebuild. Last season, under new head coach Billy Donovan (274-198), Chicago did something they had not done over the past three seasons. That is, they won more than 27 games. And although the Bulls missed the playoffs, with Donovan guiding them our Chicago Bulls preview 2021 expects to see more improvement this season. So much so, that we project they have a shot at the playoffs.
NBA East - Central Division Summary - Chicago Bulls 2021
11th Place NBA East/Fourth Place NBA Central
Play-In Round