The Chicago Bulls have had a confusing offseason that has left fans wondering exactly where this team stands.
The current answer is “NBA purgatory” as the Bulls aren’t likely good enough to be serious competition in the Eastern Conference, but might not be bad enough to keep their top-10 protected pick in 2025.
If things break correctly, the Bulls might even be as good or better than last season, especially if they can get a run of better health.
That could change with another big trade before the season, but for now, Zach LaVine talks have cooled and it appears the Bulls are comfortable at least entertaining the idea of bringing him back.
If they do, Billy Donovan will have plenty of options for his starting lineup and rotation.
Chicago Bulls starting lineup #1
-Josh Giddey
-Coby White
-Zach LaVine
-Patrick Williams
-Nikola Vucevic
Primary bench
-Ayo Dosunmu
-Lonzo Ball
-Matas Buzelis
-Jalen Smith
Deep bench
-Torrey Craig
-Adama Sanago
-Julian Phillips
-DJ Steward
-Chris Duarte
As things currently stand, this would likely be the starting five and rotation for the Bulls to start next season.
This group has some offensive potential, with two good defenders coming off the bench in Ayo Dosunmu and Lonzo Ball, who Donovan can stagger with the other guards to balance his shooting and defense.
The defense will be an issue with the starting five, as they have no point of attack defenders on the perimeter and no one to protect the paint.
So, we could see Donovan shift a few things around to try and keep a passable defense on the floor.