Game #8: November 6 vs. Utah Jazz
Despite former prized rebuild centerpiece Lauri Markkanen dominating in his individual performances by averaging 30 points on elite efficiency, the Jazz failed to beat the Bulls in either of their two duels last season. This Utah core has certainly defied expectations in the past, but Lauri’s supporting cast simply isn’t strong to beat the Bulls on a consistent basis.
- Prediction: Win
Game #9: November 8 vs. Phoenix Suns
I wouldn’t be shocked if it takes the Phoenix Suns a while to reach full speed this season, as they’ll be carefully performing a balancing act with three ball-dominant scorers all season long. Still, even if they stumble out of the gate, a team with talents like Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, Bradley Beal, and Deandre Ayton is better than most even if they’re only operating at 80% of their full potential. I wouldn’t be too fussed if the Bulls drop this one.
- Prediction: Loss
The Bulls should make up some ground here to finish their first 10 games strong.
Game #10: November 12 vs. Detroit Pistons
For the sake of the win streak, I can’t in good faith pick the Pistons over the Bulls here, I wouldn’t want to risk manifesting the thought into reality. This year’s Pistons team is better than any version we’ve seen over the last five years, that’s true, but the same could be said for the Bulls as well. Until they prove they can get the job done, my money’s on Chicago.
- Prediction: Win
That brings our predicted record through the first 10 games to a solid 6-4. If this is how the Bulls’ 2023-24 season started off, I think I’d be rather pleased. With so many home games to start the year off, it’s not ridiculous to think they even outperform these predictions. Although I predicted the Bulls to lose, I still believe their matchups against Indiana, Dallas, and Phoenix are very much winnable. Similarly, I’d keep an eye out on teams like Utah and Brooklyn, who could throw a wrench in our plans if they get hot at the right time.
Predicted Record Through First 10 Games: (6-4)