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Chicago Bulls: 3 takeaways from the preseason loss to the Hornets

By Luke Askew

CHARLOTTE, NC - OCTOBER 08: Head coach Fred Hoiberg of the Chicago Bulls watches on against the Charlotte Hornets during their game at Spectrum Center on October 8, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC - OCTOBER 08: Head coach Fred Hoiberg of the Chicago Bulls watches on against the Charlotte Hornets during their game at Spectrum Center on October 8, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Gary Dineen/NBAE via Getty Images)
(Photo by Gary Dineen/NBAE via Getty Images) /

2. Wendell Carter Jr. needs some reps with the first unit

After Wendell Carter Jr.’s awesome Summer League, many Bulls fans were ready for him to make an immediate impact on a team that really needs some help. His preseason hasn’t looked as good as I hoped it would, but I’m optimistic that he can turn it around.

Against the Hornets, Carter scored a mere 3 points to go along with his 5 assists and 2 rebounds. That looks more along the lines of what you’d expect from a point guard that was drafted in the second round, not a franchise-altering center.

Like Jabari Parker (and most of the Bulls), Carter simply looks out of rhythm. Maybe some first-team reps would help the team and Carter’s individual development? It’s at least worth a try, right?

Before preseason started, I thought it made sense to start Robin Lopez at the 5 and bring Carter off the bench. Now, after seeing the Bulls struggle in back-to-back preseason games, I’m starting to think the opposite.

With Markkanen injured, the Bulls aren’t moving the ball well, they aren’t shooting the 3 well and they aren’t playing anywhere close to the level that they can play at. Carter can help with all of that.

Forget the fact that Wendell Carter Jr. plays center. I’m pretty confident that he’s the best passer on the Bulls, and his high basketball IQ and floor vision are things the Bulls could really use right now.

If Carter were to play alongside Zach LaVine, Kris Dunn, Jabari Parker and Justin Holiday, the offense (and defense) would look much better.

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