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.
Coby White The Unsung Hero in Chicago Bulls’ Success
Nov 17, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Coby White (0) arrives at United Center before the game against the Houston Rockets . Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images | Matt Marton/Matt Marton-Imagn Images
Have you ever wondered what it takes for a player to rise above the noise and make a significant impact on their team? In a recent episode of Locked on Bulls, we explored this very topic, focusing on the impressive start to the season by Coby White. Despite being overshadowed by the stellar performances of Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic, Coby White has quietly emerged as a key player for the Chicago Bulls.
Coby White’s Impressive Stats
Coby White’s season has been nothing short of remarkable. He’s averaging 20 points per game, with a shooting percentage of 45% from the field and 40% from beyond the arc. These numbers represent career highs for White, who has also increased his three-point attempts to nine per game. His performance in November has been particularly noteworthy, with averages of 20.3 points, 46% shooting from the field, and 43% from three-point range. This consistency is a testament to his growth as a player.
Leadership on and off the Court
Beyond the stats, Coby White is stepping up as a leader for the Bulls. After a tough loss to Houston, he was the vocal presence the team needed, emphasizing that both the fans and the organization deserved better. This leadership quality is crucial for a team searching for its next leader, and White is proving to be that figure. His impact is not just in numbers but in the energy and direction he brings to the team.
The Defensive Challenge
While Coby White’s offensive game is flourishing, his defensive performance is a mixed bag. Opponents are scoring 5.9 points more per 100 possessions when he’s on the court, the highest in his career. However, this is more reflective of the team’s overall defensive struggles rather than White’s individual performance. Despite this, his efficiency and intangibles on the court are improving, making him a valuable asset to the team.
The Future of the Bulls
Coby White’s development is a bright spot for the Bulls as they look to the future. At just 24 years old, he is refining his game and becoming a more efficient player. His ability to penetrate the defense and draw fouls is an area for potential growth. Increasing his free throw attempts could make him an even more formidable player. As the Bulls navigate their season, White’s continued improvement will be essential.
Call to Action
If you’re a Bulls fan or just a basketball enthusiast, keep an eye on Coby. His journey this season is a testament to hard work and perseverance. Consider how you can apply these lessons of growth and leadership in your own life. For a deeper dive into Kobe White’s season and the Chicago Bulls, listen to the full episode of Locked on Bulls.
In conclusion, Coby White’s rise is a story of resilience and potential. As he continues to evolve, he not only enhances his game but also elevates the Chicago Bulls. Don’t miss out on witnessing this exciting journey. Tune in to Locked on Bulls for more insights and discussions.
They’ve had close wins, technical wins, nail-biters and blow-outs; they’ve (reportedly) turned down superstars and and currently sit third in the west with a record of 11-5 — In a Western Conference finally coming alive, can the Houston Rockets keep this up?
The Rockets are on pace to tie or surpass the franchise’s win record of 64, set by a team led by James Harden in 2017-2018. It was Harden’s — and all the failed years of being in the running for title contention — ghost that still hung over the franchise as recently as last season, no matter that Harden himself has been part of three different rosters since he sulked his way out of Houston. Everything from the Rockets brand of basketball to the team’s waylaid trajectory back into competition had been set and then upended by him.
It was something of an exorcism then, that Houston handily beat Harden’s current team, the Clippers, in back-to-back games this week.
What feels especially lasting about the winning pace the Rockets have set is that there’s plenty room for the team to improve. Houston’s sitting at 25th overall in field goal percentage, 27th in three-point percentage, and is still claiming the ninth overall offensive ranking in the league. Their starters have all been shooting well below their career bests, and yet, nothing about the Rockets’ wins have looked harried.
For a team that has an average of just four years NBA experience between them, there’s a wealth of patience. When the Rockets have been pressed this season, or teams like the Pacers and Bulls have tried to rush them with pace, they fall back on snapping passes and sinking into ball movement. There are still sequences of ISO ball and flubbed defensive rotations, but Houston has leaned into their transitions as opportunities to reset. No doubt in part to having the always unflappable Fred VanVleet driving this thing, plus the veteran offensive ballasts of Jeff Green and Dillon Brooks.
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
Roster Zach LaVine’s recent performances are proving crucial for the Bulls. His contributions are key to the team’s current strategies and future plans. (Chicago Tribune)
Preview The Hawks and Bulls will battle it out at United Center at 8:00 PM ET. Read the preview.(NBA)
Legacy Will NBA expansion bring the SuperSonics back to Seattle? Find out. (The Athletic)
Biz Amid their early-season tank, the Sixers expected to scour the trade market for power forwards. (Real GM)
Shopping
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Franz Wagner A First Round Fantasy Basketball Player?
Nov 21, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner (22) celebrates with guard Jalen Suggs (4) after defeating the Los Angeles Lakers with a 3-point basket with 2.5 seconds left in the game at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images | Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
The Orlando Magic edged out the LA Lakers with a 119-118 victory. The game was a showcase of talent and strategy, with the Magic overcoming a deficit to secure the win. Franz Wagner was the standout performer, continuing his impressive form with a stellar 37 points, six rebounds, and 11 assists. His all-around game, including four steals and four threes, solidified his status as a top fantasy asset. Wagner’s recent performances have elevated him to first-round value in fantasy leagues, making him a potential sell-high candidate, though his current form might make holding onto him equally appealing.
Dalton Knecht’s Role and Performance
Dalton Knecht played a significant role for the Lakers, logging the most minutes on the team. While his 17 points, four rebounds, and one assist were solid, they highlighted the limitations in his fantasy profile. Knecht’s reliance on scoring and shooting efficiency means that while he’s a valuable asset, his contributions in other categories remain limited. Fantasy managers should monitor his role closely, especially as the Lakers adjust their rotations.
Anthony Black’s Consistency Concerns
Anthony Black’s performance was less consistent, with 4 points, 4 rebounds, and 5 assists on 25% shooting. While his recent games have shown flashes of potential, this outing underscores the volatility in his production. Fantasy managers who picked up Black for his upside should consider holding him through the Magic’s favourable schedule but remain cautious about his long-term consistency.
