4. Play With Pace and Improved 3-Point Shooting
The Bulls were among the bottom ranks of the league in 3-point shots attempted last year, clocking in at 27th overall and what felt like dead last at times, especially when paired up against the likes of long-range slinging teams such as the Warriors and Rockets.
On average, opponents made 3 more 3-point shots per game than the Bulls last year, and with a team that showed signs of weakness on both ends of the court, those three buckets each game buried any hopes of playoff basketball for the Bulls last year.
Despite such a young core, the Bulls failed to play at a quick pace, also ranking in the bottom half of the league, which seemed to be one area where they excelled as a team when they pushed the floor.
Of course, there was the firing of Fred Hoiberg and the introductory period of new coach Jim Boylen that led to a major adjustment period over the course of the season and one that would ultimately keep the Bulls from really finding their identity.
With the addition of Porter Jr. to the roster last season, along with new signees Tomas Santoransky, Thaddeous Young, Luke Kornet, rookie Coby White, and the return of Denzel Valentine, the Bulls can aim to play with more floor spacing, athleticism, and speed, which should help address many of the concerns from last year.
If the preseason is any indication, the Bulls have shined with a quicker style of play and a notably increased effort at taking more shots from long range. Even Kris Dunn was firing off from behind the line, though not too efficiently. Regardless, that’s what we like to see!
If the Bulls can keep the pace up, outrun their opponents, and take advantage of increased floor spacing while taking more perimeter shots, the Bulls should have a decent shot at competing, but they’ll need to address a few more issues before we see the Bulls in the playoffs.