Chicago Bulls vs. Cleveland Cavaliers: 3 Key Takeaways

Oct 14, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Kay Felder (20) drives against Chicago Bulls forward Taj Gibson (22) during the second half at the United Center. Chicago won 118-108. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 14, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Kay Felder (20) drives against Chicago Bulls forward Taj Gibson (22) during the second half at the United Center. Chicago won 118-108. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports
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Dwyane Wade, SG, Chicago Bulls
Oct 14, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Dwyane Wade (3) drives past Cleveland Cavaliers guard DeAndre Liggins (14) during the first quarter at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports

The Game Changers

Dwyane Wade suited up after much talk around league pegged the 11-time NBA All-Star sitting out. He provided his hometown team with much-needed leadership to keep the game close. Wade received rest that night after racking up 11 points, six rebounds and five assists within 23 minutes.

Rajon Rondo performed well despite four turnovers during the first quarter. His hesitancy to shoot the three put the squad in a compromising position during one possession of play. Rondo took note of his error by putting in an effort to shoot when open from deep. In doing so, he connected on his next two three-point attempts. Rondo accumulated a total of six turnovers by the game’s end.

Taj Gibson was dubbed as a starter during the game, and is continuing to demonstrate why he’s the best suitor at power forward. His defense prowess and ability to hit the boards is irrefutable. Nikola Mirotic will have a difficult time vying for the starting job the way Gibson is playing. The veteran big man shows maturity, and is much more polished and composed.

Yes. Mirotic gives the Bulls the option for added space. The problem with that logic stems from knowing the Bulls have many issues at the defensive end without Gibson in the lineup.

With only two preseason games remaining, it appears to me that Gibson is a shoe in for the starting slot.

You read that right.