Why the Bulls' wins predictions are too high, too low or just right
By Alex Johnson
After a disappointing 39-43 campaign in 2023-24, the Vegas bookmakers have soured further on the Chicago Bulls for the upcoming season and have pegged them at a paltry 28.5 win average across several sites.
Vegas knows what they are doing, but they don't necessarily get it right all the time. Last year the Detroit Pistons were projected to win 28.5 and ended up with abysmal 14 wins. On the other hand, the likes of the Orlando Magic, Houston Rockets and Indiana Pacers were 9 games or better than the prediction.
dark. Related Story. Bulls go big and cheap with recent free-agent signing. Bulls go big and cheap with recent free-agent signing
Why is 29 wins reasonable prediction
Leading scorer, DeMar DeRozan and all world defensive talent, Alex Caruso have left for what seems greener pastures. Two key pieces for a team that has struggled to be consistent over the last several years and with the departure backup big man Andre Drummond, the Bulls have lost a significant veteran presence in the clubhouse.
To fill the void left by the recent departures will be the young core of Josh Giddey, Chris Duarte, Jalen Smith, and draft pick Matus Buzelis. In the NBA it is a fine line. There is a need for a veteran presence, but it must be balanced with not becoming too old. The 10 game drop-off predicted for the Bulls is most likely based on two conditions.
1. The Bulls will be unable to fill the void left by the veterans in the offseason
2. It is likely that the Bulls might sell off other NBA quality players to plan for the future at some point
Does Vegas have it right? Let's examine...