Billy Donovan deployed a rare four-guard lineup to seal the win against the Knicks on Halloween Night. In the closing minutes of the Bulls' 135-125 victory, the lineup on the court was Josh Giddey, Tre Jones, Ayo Dosunmu, Kevin Huerter, and Nikola Vucevic. It may only have been used sparingly in this game, but it's clearly something that Donovan favors and could use again.
Four guards offers unique advantages for the Bulls
This lineup was clearly the best option for the late-game free-throw battle with the Knicks, but it has other uses, too. All five players in the lineup are deadly shooters, giving any ball handler plenty of spacing. Giddey has already looked like an All-Star this season as he pushes the Bulls offense with his shooting and playmaking, but more time with 5-out spacing will give him even greater opportunity.
Defensively, there may be issues with such an undersized lineup, but the Bulls' unique guards help neutralize some of those disadvantages. For example, Giddey has incredible size for a point guard at 6-foot-8, and Tre Jones is one of the league leaders in steals. In short stints, the four guards around Vucevic can hold up on defense while running opposing teams out of the gym on offense.
Perhaps the best part of this lineup is its offensive versatility. Each of them has grown into a respected shooter, but they are far from one-dimensional. If defenses close out too hard, they all have the ability to attack the rim or create plays for others. Vucevic's vast skill at the center position will also make it hard for opposing defenses to match up properly.
The absence of Matas Buzelis from this lineup is the most glaring one. Buzelis has been one of the Bulls' best players this season and seems destined for stardom in the near future. As he improves his shooting and polishes his offensive game, he will be able to provide the same advantages when he's surrounded by four other shooters as well. Donovan's decision to sub him out for a better shooter should motivate him, rather than discourage him.
Billy Donovan deserves a lot of credit for the Bulls' red-hot start. He has fully leaned into the strengths of his roster, and this lineup is probably the most extreme example of that. His willingness to try innovative strategies has worked wonders with a young team. Although he's not often given the credit he deserves, he's definitely earned his flowers with many creative decisions so far this season.