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’ Triumph: A Game of Confidence and Strategy
Have you ever wondered what it takes for a team to truly capitalize on an opponent’s weaknesses? In a recent episode of Locked On Bulls, we explored this very topic as the Chicago Bulls faced off against a depleted Brooklyn Nets team. Despite the Nets missing key players, the Bulls’ performance was a testament to strategic execution and individual brilliance.
A Win That Was Expected
In our latest podcast episode, we discussed the Bulls’ decisive victory over the Brooklyn Nets. While this wasn’t a statement win, given the Nets’ missing top scorers, it was a necessary triumph. The Bulls, despite missing Coby White and Patrick Williams, managed to secure a win that was crucial for their morale and standings. A loss here would have been inexcusable, considering the Nets’ weakened lineup.
Josh Giddy: The Confidence Player
One of the standout performances came from Josh Giddy, who achieved his first triple-double in a Bulls uniform. With 20 points, 13 rebounds, and 11 assists, Giddy showcased his potential as a confidence-driven player. His ability to maintain composure and contribute significantly on both ends of the court was pivotal. Giddy’s performance highlighted the importance of building confidence early in the game, allowing him to play to his strengths.
Zach Lavine’s Evolving Role
Zach Lavine’s role in the team seems to be evolving. While he scored 18 points, his focus was more on facilitating team success rather than personal stats. Lavine’s willingness to adapt and prioritize team victories over individual accolades is a promising development. His ability to step up when needed, without overshadowing teammates like Giddy and Vucevic, is crucial for the Bulls’ dynamic.
Matas Buzelis: Rising Confidence
Matas Buzelis also had a noteworthy game, scoring a career-high 20 points. His growing confidence and understanding of the game are becoming evident. As Buzelis gains more trust from coach Billy Donovan, his potential is starting to shine through. His performance against the Nets demonstrated his ability to leverage his athleticism and adapt to the physical demands of the NBA.
Defensive Improvements and Team Rhythm
The Bulls’ defense was another highlight, as they managed to limit the Nets to 15 points off turnovers and 40 points in the paint. This defensive effort, combined with their offensive rhythm, allowed the Bulls to control the game. The team’s ability to maintain composure and execute their game plan, even when the Nets attempted to get physical, was commendable.
Call to Action: Embrace the Momentum
As we look forward, it’s essential for the Bulls to build on this momentum. The upcoming schedule provides opportunities for rest and practice, which could be pivotal in refining their strategies and improving team chemistry. I encourage you to keep an eye on players like Giddy and Buzelis, whose development could significantly impact the Bulls’ success.
For a more in-depth discussion on the Bulls’ performance and future prospects, tune into the full episode of Locked On Bulls. Join us as we continue to explore the intricacies of the game and the potential of this evolving team.
Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) is helped up by center Jay Huff (30) and forward Jaylen Wells (0) during the second quarter against the New Orleans Pelicans at FedExForum. | Petre Thomas/Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
In mid-November, when the Lakers beat the Grizzlies at home in L.A., it was in large part to the efforts of Dalton Knecht. The rookie was upset that a week before that game the Grizzlies very tidily (to the tune of 131-114) put the Lakers away in Memphis, but more specifically, that Ja Morant challenged LeBron James. Knecht told ESPN reporter Dave McMenamin that Morant said “he was pretty much the new king around here when Bron’s still in the league.”
This is about the Grizzlies, it is, but Knecht’s umbrage was directed at the crucial element that’s powered Memphis for so long, and what’s put them back on top after last year’s wash of a season: outsized confidence.
It’s been called disrespect, showboating, ego, but whatever the Grizzlies are being called is less important than the baseline quality of confidence the labels all spring from and the team embodies. I’ve also found these other monikers telling— like a league temperature check — depending on who is levelling them and as a result of what. In Knecht’s case, he felt it disrespectful that Morant would make such a claim but Morant’s been saying it for seasons now. What started as general agitation and prowess for his own team seasons ago, a means to get an underdog Grizzlies team fired up, worked. It also turned into something greater: Morant hasn’t replaced James yet but the weight of expectation is there, so is the pathway. The side-effect, this time, was giving a rookie like Knecht his “Welcome to the NBA” moment.
The Grizzlies are sitting third in a densely competitive Western Conference, ranked fifth overall in offence and fourth in defence, and they’ve secured these spots despite largely being without Morant, their diamond-in-the-rough of Desmond Bane, and big man Zach Edey. Jaren Jackson Jr. sits comfortably on over a dozen league leaderboards, including points per 36 minutes, field goals per 100 possessions, block percentage and defensive win shares. Scottie Pippen Jr. Is an assist machine with the kind of court vision that usually takes seasons to sharpen; Jay Huff can sharp-shoot the three and the next possession take the ball up for a reverse dunk right in front of LeBron James.
And there’s no slouch in them. All down the roster, despite the injury gaps, Memphis counts seven players who average at least and typically more than 10 points a game. Of those seven, all split their minutes, with Jackson Jr. averaging the most at 29:20 a game. The result is an early depth that not many other teams can rival...
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
Development Chicago Bulls coach Billy Donovan emphasizes that developmental minutes must be earned, reinforcing the importance of effort and performance for young players. (Chicago Sun-Times)
Must Read Lonzo Ball is finding his rhythm again after injuries kept him away for two years. (The Athletic, subscription required)
Preview Breaking down the NBA Cup: Here’s a primer for the final night of group-stage games. (The Athletic)
Thursday, Dec. 05 | 7:00 PM | Frost Bank Center (San Antonio, TX) | Get Tickets
Pacers @ Bulls
Friday, Dec. 06 | 7:00 PM | United Center (Chicago, FL) | Get Tickets
76ers @ Bulls
Sunday, Dec. 08 | 12:00 PM | United Center (Chicago, FL) | Get Tickets
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Dejounte Murray’s Poor Shooting Return To Atlanta
Dec 2, 2024; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; New Orleans Pelicans guard Dejounte Murray (5) dribbles against the Atlanta Hawks in the fourth quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images | Brett Davis/Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Injury Updates and Player Returns
As we navigate the NBA season, keeping an eye on player injuries and returns is crucial for fantasy basketball success. Jeremy Sochan is potentially making a comeback, and I recommend adding him in all league formats. Mark Williams is another player to watch, as he’s been upgraded to questionable. While his return isn’t guaranteed, it’s worth considering adding him to your roster. Meanwhile, Draymond Green is listed as questionable, but Steve Kerr has expressed doubts about his availability. This opens up opportunities for Jonathan Kuminga, Kevon Looney, and Trace Jackson-Davis to step up in his absence.
Waiver Wire Trends
The waiver wire is buzzing with activity, and it’s essential to stay ahead of the curve. Vasa Micic is the most added player, filling in for the injured LaMelo Ball and Tre Mann. While this isn’t a long-term solution, Micic is a solid pickup until one of them returns. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is another player to consider, especially with the Magic’s favourable schedule. He’s a great streaming option, but don’t expect consistent season-long value. Marcus Smart is also gaining traction, and his recent performances make him a worthy addition.
On the flip side, Isaiah Stewart, Moussa Diabate, and Naji Marshall are among the most dropped players. Stewart’s value is inconsistent, making him an easy drop. Diabate’s minutes are dwindling, and Marshall’s role is uncertain. Scotty Pippen Jr. and Ty Jerome have also seen significant drops, with Jerome’s value plummeting due to Caris LeVert’s return.
