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.
Chicago Bulls’ Defensive Struggles and Lonzo Ball’s Return
Have you ever wondered why some NBA teams struggle to find their rhythm despite having talented rosters? In a recent episode of Locked on Bulls, we explored this very question, focusing on the Chicago Bulls’ recent performance against the Orlando Magic. The episode featured insights into the team’s defensive challenges and the much-anticipated return of Lonzo Ball.
The Bulls’ Defensive Woes
The Chicago Bulls faced a tough night against the Orlando Magic, conceding nearly 40 points in the first quarter alone. This defensive lapse set the tone for a game where the Bulls struggled to keep up, despite winning the third and fourth quarters. The Magic’s Franz Wagner, KCP, and Jalen Suggs delivered standout performances, highlighting the Bulls’ defensive vulnerabilities.
As a team, the Bulls have shown that their success often hinges on their shooting efficiency. While they managed a respectable 52% from the field and 38% from three-point range, their free-throw percentage lagged at 68%. This inconsistency, coupled with cold nights from key players like Zach LaVine and Coby White, underscores the need for a more robust defensive strategy.
Lonzo Ball’s Impactful Return
Lonzo Ball’s return to the court was a bright spot in an otherwise challenging game. After missing several games, Ball’s performance was nothing short of impressive. In just 15 minutes, he contributed significantly with two three-pointers, four assists, three rebounds, two blocks, and four steals. His presence on the court is a testament to his resilience and ability to impact the game positively.
Ball’s return brings hope for improved team dynamics, especially in facilitating better ball movement and defensive coordination. His ability to create opportunities for teammates could be crucial in addressing the Bulls’ current challenges.
The Need for a Defensive Overhaul
One of the critical takeaways from the episode is the Bulls’ need to enhance their defensive capabilities. The team is not currently set up to be a defensive powerhouse, often struggling against teams with sound defensive strategies. This limitation is evident in their inability to consistently win against top-tier teams.
The Bulls’ reliance on a playstyle rather than a structured system further exacerbates their defensive issues. Without a clear defensive scheme, the team often resorts to a reactive approach, which is insufficient against well-coordinated opponents.
The Role of Key Players
Zach LaVine and Coby White are pivotal to the Bulls’ success, yet their recent performances have been inconsistent. LaVine’s ability to fill the stat sheet, even on off nights, is commendable, but the team needs more from him and White to secure victories. The Bulls’ system relies heavily on these players delivering near 20-point performances consistently.
The episode also highlighted the potential of players like Talen Horton-Tucker, who scored 20 points off the bench. However, the team needs more players who can create their own shots and contribute defensively to support LaVine and White.
Looking Ahead: Strategies for Improvement
For the Bulls to turn their season around, several strategies could be implemented:
1. Defensive Focus: Prioritizing defensive drills and strategies in practice could help the team become more cohesive and effective on the court.
2. Player Development: Encouraging players like Coby White to develop their playmaking skills could reduce the team’s reliance on a few key scorers.
3. Roster Adjustments: Exploring trades or lineup changes to bring in defensive specialists could provide the team with the balance it needs.
4. Coaching Adjustments: Coach Billy Donovan’s ability to adapt and make in-game adjustments will be crucial. The team needs a coach who can implement a flexible system that evolves with the season.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
The Chicago Bulls are at a crossroads. With Lonzo Ball back in action, there’s potential for improvement, but it requires a concerted effort from the entire team. Fans and players alike must rally behind the team, pushing for the changes needed to compete at a higher level.
Giving thanks for a better-than-expected rookie class
Happy Thanksgiving! To give you something to talk about with your undoubtedly NBA-fluent families and friends, here are some rookie rankings to chew over.
1. Jared McCain, Philadelphia 76ers
Over his last ten games, McCain has averaged 23 points per game (top 25 in the league in that span) on solid efficiency, including 39% from deep on crazy volume. Philly hasn’t had much to cheer about this season, but McCain’s surprising on-ball creation and superb off-ball movement have Philly fans seeing a future star (wait, maybe that’s just their court). I’m obsessed with this little moonwalk he uses to shake OG Anunoby juuuust enough to bury a shuriken in his eye:
McCain moonwalks into a three over OG Anunoby
McCain likely won’t score like this when the team’s fully healthy (and he’s cooled off the last two games), but the fact that he can is a great sign for the team’s present and future.
2. Stephon Castle, San Antonio Spurs
Castle has risen to second place thanks to an excellent recent stretch. Since becoming a starter, Castle’s averaged 15 points, three boards, and five assists while playing ferocious defense.
Castle is incredibly versatile. At nearly 6’6” pre-shoes and pre-hair, he has the size and speed to fill any number of roles. As I wrote about at length here, he’s quickly becoming the perfect amorphous fit next to Victor Wembanyama.
Although his three-point accuracy is still developing, Castle’s confidence in his shot is the skeleton key that unlocks the rest of his offensive game. And the more effective he is on offense, the more opportunity he’s given to create absolute havoc on defense.
I’m particularly intrigued by his ability to be a faux-big man in the screen and roll:
Mike Shearer (@bballispoetry) has written about the NBA full-time since 2021 at various and sundry places. For more from Mike, check out his Substack bestseller, Basketball Poetry, where he uses unnecessary metaphors and the occasional haiku to discuss the NBA’s happenings with an analytical lens.
Home and Away
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Analysis The Bulls fell to the Orlando Magic, highlighting the ongoing struggles of rookie Matas Buzelis. The game served as an educational moment for the young player, reflecting on team dynamics and areas for improvement. (Chicago Sun-Times)
Fans Despite the ups and downs in Chicago sports, there are still reasons for fans to be thankful, including moments of excellence and hope across various teams. (Chicago Sun-Times)
Injury Lonzo Ball’s extended absence continues to impact the Bulls, as they suffered a loss to the Magic. His recovery remains a critical factor for the team’s performance. (Chicago Tribune)
Must Read LaMelo’s proclivity for fouls, how many wins Philadelphia needs for the play-in, examining OKC’s defense, and more. (ESPN+)
Feel Good The Pistons’ willingness to spend, the Nets’ and Lakers’ new coach, and more things for each NBA team to be thankful for. (CBS Sports)
Analysis A roundtable of experts discusses the league’s biggest storylines after the first month of the season. (Fansided)
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
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Nov 26, 2024; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Utah Jazz forward/center Lauri Markkanen (23) on the floor after a collision with San Antonio Spurs forward/center Victor Wembanyama (1) during the second half at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Creveling-Imagn Images | Christopher Creveling/Christopher Creveling-Imagn Images
Another Lauri Markkanen Injury For Fantasy Basketball Managers To Digest | Lauri Markkanen’s recent knee injury could sideline him for at least a week, impacting fantasy basketball strategies. This opens opportunities for players like John Collins, Keyonte George, and Brice Sensabaugh to increase their roles and fantasy value.
Ja Morant Is Set To Return And Impact Fantasy Basketball Leagues | Monday’s NBA action saw significant fantasy basketball impacts, with Gary Harris and Jalen Suggs suffering hamstring injuries, potentially increasing roles for Cole Anthony and Anthony Black.
