Jun 2, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls General Manager Gar Forman (left) introduces new head coach Fred Hoiberg during a press conference at Advocate Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
CHICAGO BULLS
Say Hello to: Fred Hoiberg (head coach), Bobby Portis
Farewell: None
’14-’15 record: 50-32
I searched for reasons to downgrade this team, but couldn’t come up with much. The biggest issue with the Bulls are health and age. If Derrick Rose can regain most of the speed he used to have before his dreadful injuries, he’ll be a major contributor. Pau Gasol is evergreen, likewise gunner Mike Dunleavy. Joachim Noah is back with his relentless energy. Jimmy Butler was last season’s Most Improved Player winner. Nikola Mirotic might be the best player you’ve never heard of.
New coach Fred Hoiberg isn’t likely to duplicate his predecessor’s penchant for playing his top guns too much. Hoiberg doesn’t need to wear out his veterans in order to win; the entire lineup can shoot the 3-ball, pass and defend. Is there anything else?
This team is old; still, if they can reach the post-season in a fresh state, watch out.
Next: No Mistake by the Lake