Cordaro Johnson (Haize) here, the host of the daily Locked On Bulls podcast, with your daily Locked On Bulls newsletter. Each day we bring you the biggest stories about the Bulls and the NBA, including the hottest links to other stories you need to read. Plus, Josh Lloyd delivers daily fantasy notes to crush your league.
A Deep Dive Into The Chicago Bulls’ Fourth Quarter Struggles
Nov 11, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine (8) is hugged by Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) after the game at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images|Matt Marton/Matt Marton-Imagn Images
Why do the Chicago Bulls consistently falter in the fourth quarter? This question has been on the minds of many fans and analysts alike. In a recent episode of Locked On Bulls, I explored this topic in detail, dissecting the Bulls’ recent loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers and what it reveals about their ongoing challenges.
The Fourth Quarter Collapse
In our latest podcast episode, we delved into the Bulls’ performance against the Cleveland Cavaliers, a game that highlighted their recurring issues with execution in crucial moments. Despite a strong start and competitive play throughout most of the game, the Bulls fell apart in the fourth quarter, ultimately losing 119-113. This pattern of strong beginnings followed by late-game breakdowns has become a troubling trend for the team.
Key Takeaways from the Game
1. Turnover Troubles
One of the most glaring issues for the Bulls was their inability to protect the ball. With 20 turnovers leading to 35 points for the Cavaliers, it’s clear that ball security is a significant problem. Coby White and Josh Giddey were responsible for nearly half of these turnovers, highlighting the need for better decision-making and ball-handling under pressure.
2. Defensive Inconsistencies
The Bulls struggled defensively, particularly in the paint, where they allowed 56 points. While they managed to contain Donovan Mitchell to just 11 points in the second half, thanks in part to Zach Levine’s defensive efforts, the overall defensive performance was lacking. The team needs to find a way to tighten up their defense, especially against high-scoring opponents like the Cavaliers.
Nov 11, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Josh Giddey (3) passes the ball away from Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland (10) during the second half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images
Matt Marton/Matt Marton-Imagn Images
3. Offensive Execution
Offensively, the Bulls showed promise with multiple players scoring in double digits. Zach LaVine led the team with 26 points, showcasing his two-way play. However, the team’s execution faltered in the fourth quarter, with missed opportunities and poor shot selection contributing to their downfall. The Bulls need to focus on maintaining their offensive rhythm throughout the entire game.
4. Coaching and Rotation Decisions
Coaching decisions, particularly regarding player rotations, have come under scrutiny. In this game, Billy Donovan’s reluctance to trust his bench may have contributed to the team’s fatigue and late-game struggles. Finding the right balance between starters and bench players is crucial for maintaining energy and effectiveness throughout the game.
5. Learning from Mistakes
Despite the loss, there are valuable lessons to be learned. The Bulls demonstrated their ability to compete with one of the top teams in the league, but they must address their turnover issues and improve their defensive consistency. By focusing on these areas, the Bulls can turn their potential into actual wins.
Moving Forward
As the Bulls continue their season, it’s essential for them to address these recurring issues. Improving ball security, enhancing defensive strategies, and optimizing player rotations will be key to their success. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the team adapts and grows from these challenges.
For a more in-depth discussion on the Bulls’ performance and what lies ahead, I invite you to listen to the full episode of Locked On Bulls. Join us as we continue to analyze and discuss the latest developments in the Bulls’ season.
The second annual NBA In-Season Tournament/much catchier ‘NBA Cup’ begins tonight, kicking off roughly a month of tournament games that fall on Tuesdays and Fridays. Then, we get into the quarterfinals and conference semifinals, the rules of which I am still not 100% clear on and am not ashamed to admit.
The newness of the Cup is what makes people skeptical of it. It’s what made me skeptical of it last season. It’s difficult to introduce new things into competitive ecosystems that seem largely “set”, which is why it happens rarely. My skepticism of the tournament came from the need to gameify what is already a game, but then I thought about how often the “product” of the NBA (e.g. basketball) gets complained about and realized the league was trying something. Trying something different versus just complaining about what already exists for the sake of griping is also rare.
Part of the fun of the tournament in its current, very green iteration, is its messiness. Last season, athletes were clear about how they, too, were stumped on the rules. How did the point system work? What were the knockout rules? Why were the custom courts so garish? But for the most part, players leaned into it. Did the Lakers lean a little too hard into it by hanging the In-Season Tournament banner in the rafters? Absolutely. But these are Tuesday night games in November — nothing about them should be sacrosanct.
A genuine lift I noticed and liked about last season’s tournament, and my real point of defense, is how these games operated as additional runway for a handful of teams on the verge. The In-Season Tournament was where we started to see the Pacers flourish and use the breakneck speed that went on to become a critical component of their entirely unique offense. The Pelicans also treated the tournament as something different, approaching the games like an escape from the early season injury woes that derailed them (unfortunately in a very cruel deja vu, we’re seeing the same thing this season). There’s going to be more emerging teams and play styles showing themselves this time around.
Katie Heindl is a credentialed NBA and WNBA writer, her bylines have appeared with The New York Times Magazine, SLAM, The Athletic, Yahoo Sports, Dime, Rolling Stone, among others. She writes the bestselling Substack, Basketball Feelings and is working on a book of the same name.
Home and Away
Analysis Bulls’ mistakes led to a loss against the Cavaliers, highlighting areas for improvement to boost their performance. (Sun Times)
Injury Ayo Dosunmu’s shooting slump is impacting the Bulls’ offense, raising concerns about his form and contribution. (Chicago Tribune)
Injury The NBA has a ‘missing stars’ problem with injuries piling up faster than normal. (Yahoo! Sports)
Rumor Did Giannis Antetokounmpo’s fake handshake prank launch a new NBA rivalry?
Preview The tiny town and legendary 1980s NBA team that built NBA Draft phenom Cooper Flagg (ESPN)
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Monday’s NBA Fantasy Basketball Recap
San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) reacts during the second half against the Sacramento Kings at Frost Bank Center.|Photo by Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
Monday’s NBA action featured five games, each packed with performances and injury updates that could reshape your fantasy basketball strategy.
Injury Updates Affecting Lineups
Damian Lillard’s entry into concussion protocol means he’ll miss Tuesday’s game, with a slim chance of returning by Wednesday. This quick turnaround is unusual, so keep an eye on updates. Meanwhile, Gary Trent Jr. is still dealing with back spasms, and despite his fantasy position eligibility, he’s not a point guard, averaging only two assists per game. The Milwaukee Bucks are experimenting with their lineup, with Pat Connaughton and Ryan Rollins as potential backup point guards. Giannis Antetokounmpo can handle point guard duties, but he needs support, especially with Khris Middleton unavailable.
Zion Williamson’s injury update is a blow to fantasy managers. He’s expected to be out for four to six weeks, longer than initially anticipated. If you have an IR spot, hold onto him, but be prepared for a potentially extended absence. Malik Monk’s ankle injury will keep him out for at least two weeks, affecting the Sacramento Kings’ lineup. Kevin Huerter and Keon Ellis could see increased value in the short term.
Game Highlights and Player Performances
The San Antonio Spurs pulled off a surprising 116-96 victory over the Sacramento Kings. Victor Wembanyama was the standout performer, delivering a stellar 34 points and 14 rebounds, solidifying his status as a top fantasy player. De’Aaron Fox’s assist numbers are concerning, especially with DeMar DeRozan’s arrival affecting his role. DeRozan’s on-court fit with the Kings remains a question mark. Kevin Huerter’s inconsistency continues, and while he had a hot streak, his recent performance was lacklustre. Keegan Murray’s struggles are evident, and I don’t see him breaking into the top 75 players this season.
Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Bulls podcasts.
Chicago Bulls Cut Onuralp Bitim & Kenny Lofton Jr | Is THT A Lock To Make Roster? Haize welcomes Bobby & C-Dub to the show to discuss the Bulls moving closer to finalizing their roster by cutting Onuralp Bitim & Kenny Lofton Jr. The guys also break down what they want to see in the Bulls’ final preseason game & more.
Lonzo Ball Looks Great In Return To To The Court | Bulls Offense Has Best Game Yet Haize reacts to Lonzo Ball’s performance in his first game back. He also talks about Coby White’s big night and the team’s offense.
Chicago Bulls Reportedly Eyeing Contract Extension WIth Josh Giddey Haize reacts to reports the Bulls could be looking to extend Josh Giddey’s contract before the start of the season. He also asks of the Chicago Bulls should be playing their starters in tonight’s preseason game and gets excited over Lonzo Ball’s return to the court.
