The Chicago Bulls' preseason wrapped up, but questions linger. Despite a winning record, the team is heading into the NBA season with key players sidelined. They've been experimenting with a deep rotation and varied starting lineups, but will it be enough? Let's dive in.
Ready or not, the regular season tips off next Wednesday against the Detroit Pistons. The Bulls ended their preseason with a hard-fought victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves, with a final score of 126-120. This win brought their preseason record to 3-2.
Young guns like Matas Buzelis and Josh Giddey saw significant playing time in the fourth quarter, showcasing the team's depth. Buzelis impressed with 19 points in 25 minutes, while Giddey nearly notched a triple-double with 14 points, 9 assists, and 7 rebounds. Julian Phillips added 17 points, and veteran guard Jevon Carter contributed 12 points, including crucial three-pointers.
However, the Bulls faced the Timberwolves without several key players. Ayo Dosunmu (left thumb), Isaac Okoro (knee soreness), and Patrick Williams (left hamstring tightness) were all out. Kevin Huerter and Julian Phillips returned after missing games due to injuries. Coach Billy Donovan downplayed the severity of these absences, but how much will they impact the team's performance?
And this is the part most people miss... Coby White (calf strain) didn't play at all during the preseason. Giddey acknowledged White's importance, expressing hope that he'll quickly regain his rhythm upon returning. Forward Zach Collins also had a scare, leaving the court grabbing his wrist, but seemed okay afterward. The team is hoping White will be ready for the season opener, even though he hasn't participated in a full practice yet. Donovan stated that White only needs to pass the contact test in practice.
Minnesota played many of its regulars, providing a solid test for the Bulls. Anthony Edwards scored 25 points, Julius Randle added 23, and Rudy Gobert contributed 16. Donovan plans to adjust starting lineups based on matchups. Against Minnesota, he opted for a two-big lineup with Nikola Vucevic and Jalen Smith to guard Gobert and Randle. Okoro is likely to be a starter due to his defensive abilities.
Donovan emphasized the need for a team-first approach, highlighting the flexibility in player rotations and lineups. Is this a sign of strategic depth, or a necessity born from injury concerns?
What do you think? Will the Bulls' deep roster and adaptable strategies be enough to overcome the early-season absences? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
