The Chicago Bulls are on the Rise.
The Chicago Bulls finished 31-41 last season, missing the playoffs. This off-season the Bulls made key moves to accelerate the growth of the franchise.
The Bulls Chicago Bulls land Lonzo Ball in a sign-and-trade agreement worth four years, $85 million, and sign Alex Caruso for $37 million. They also have acquired DeMar DeRozan from the San Antonio Spurs in a sign-and-trade agreement.
With these new additions, the Bulls have given all-star Zack Lavine some much-needed help. Ball has grown into a solid point guard who finished last season with three triple-double performances. Ball has also improved his jump shot dramatically shooting 41% from the field.
His presence will give the Chicago Bulls the monument they needed on the offensive end. Pushing the ball, securing rebounds, and creating plays for others. Alex Caruso is a strong defender, efficient premier shooter, who can attack the rim. Caruso could provide help in the second unit and be a key player in the playoffs for the Bulls, with his experience.
Demar DeRozan is still an elite player just didn't quite fit in San Antonio. DeRozan gives the Chicago Bulls another scorer who can create his own shot and take some attention off Zack Lavine.
DeRozan has playoff experience and these are the type of guys you need when you're in a close game during the playoffs.
Nikola Vucenvic gives the Bulls a true starting five, having a big who can shoot is a plus. Vucevic could help this team make a big leap in the Eastern Conference. Vucevic's ability to pick-and-pop and dominate the pick-and-roll will immediately improve the Bull's offense.
Franchise player Zack LaVine has asked the Bulls for a contract extension, LaVine This is one Chicago shouldn’t overthink. He’s the best player the organization has had since Derrick Rose.
One key guy the Bulls were not able to retain was Lauri Markkanen. Markkanen is a threat beyond the arch, averaging a career-high 19.1 points per game. He would have provided the Bulls with a clutch shooter, but he wants out of Chicago.
The Dallas Mavericks are a top contender to land Lauri Markkanen. The Chicago Bulls are interested in Maxi Kleber.
In my opinion, these moves most definitely move the Chicago bulls up in the Eastern Conference. I expect the Bulls to make the playoffs this season and make some noise.