5 Reasons the Bulls underperformed and missed playoffs this season
The Chicago Bulls were sent home for the season after losing 102-91 on Friday against the Miami Heat, just one game from securing the 8th seed in the Eastern Conference. It was a disappointing season for the Bulls, who were expected to improve upon a strong 2021-22 season, where a newly-assembled roster led by DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine achieved a 46-36 record and the 6th seed in the playoffs.
However, the Bulls took a big step back this year, as their seemingly consistent inconsistencies led to a 40-42 record. The season was marred with many conflicts, both internal and external, but it seemed that Chicago had finally moved past those issues after Patrick Beverley arrived to the team. Despite his strong locker room presence, it was unfortunately not enough for this team to get the job done.
Looking back on the season, there were five main problems that must be addressed as soon as possible.
After an incredibly disappointing season, the Chicago Bulls must address these 5 issues in order for the franchise to move in a positive direction.
1. Chicago lacks a true starting power forward
Of the 11 Chicago Bulls players that received significant minutes in the rotation at points in the season (Patrick Beverley, Alex Caruso, Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, Nikola Vucevic, Patrick Williams, Coby White, Ayo Dosunmu, Derrick Jones Jr., Andre Drummond, Javonte Green), 7 have been classified as guards by the league during their career. This has led to the Bulls placing DeMar DeRozan and Alex Caruso, both of whom started their career as shooting guards, at the starting power forward position.
As a result, the Bulls have struggled defensively against big men, as Nikola Vucevic is not exactly the best paint protector in the league. The Bulls thought they found some help with this in Patrick Williams, but just having him and Derrick Jones Jr. as the only natural power forwards on the team has not been enough. In the offseason, getting a solid power forward, will likely be the main point of emphasis, preferably one that can make up for Vooch’s (if they resign him) woes protecting the paint.
Adding a two-way player with size to man the power forward position and play strong help defense alongside Vucevic is one of the Bulls’ most clear and direct paths toward improving this summer.