Jabari Parker’s arrival could finally help activate and accelerate Chicago Bulls head coach Fred Hoiberg’s offensive plan of attack.
Play with pace and space. That has always been the vision of Bulls head coach Fred Hoiberg. The Bulls have struggled with implementing that vision since Hoiberg took over as head coach. It started with the likes of Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah initiating the offense. Then came the pairing of Jimmy Butler, Rajon Rondo, and Dwayne wade. The last failed version of Hoiberg’s offense came with the small sample size of Zach Lavine’s return and the development of Dunn and Markkanen.
Hoiberg insists that Parker’s arrival can be the key to unlocking the potential of his offensive game plan. “He’s a guy that finishes with authority at the rim and gives us another athlete we can build this team with,” said Hoiberg. Hoiberg seemed almost giddy when discussing Parker’s career high 38 percent shooting from the three-point line last year. Within Parker’s media introduction, Hoiberg stressed a commitment to getting the ball up and down the floor in transition. He lauded Parker’s ability to handle the ball and make plays for others. If nothing else, the Bulls project to play a very exciting style of basketball play on offense.
Questions still remains as to the impact of Jabari Parker’s arrival
But still, questions remain as to Parker’s fit. Can Parker flourish as a three when he played the four most of his career in Milwaukee? Will Parker and Lavine be able to coexist while being labeled as poor defenders? Who will handle the bulk of the offensive load?
Hoiberg see more opportunities and possibilities instead of doubts and or concerns.
“There are going to be different nights when different guys have it going,” said Hoiberg. “It’s all about putting your team in a position to win. Jabari and Zach, they’re both very athletic, they both have great feet. And we should, in my opinion, be able to take a step forward with our defense this year. Anytime you have a successful team with a lot of talent, you have to sacrifice and that is going to be a big message for us.”
There will be doubters who question Hoiberg’s abilities as a coach, as well as Parker’s commitment and ability to stay healthy. However, the way this roster is built will not lack in versatility. Markkanen and Bobby Portis can both play the center position. Parker can play either forward spot in smaller lineups, as well as Lavine playing some at the three.
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Portis, Denzel Valentine, and Cameron Payne should provide plenty of scoring punch off of the bench. With these options at his disposal, Hoiberg can force opposing defenses to adjust to the way he wants to play.
A huge emphasis going into training camp should and will be pushing the ball up the court with a sense of purpose. Hoiberg now has the right pieces to get that point across.