It’s the beginning of December and Lauri Markkanen is now back. I think it’s safe to say, this is a new beginning for the Bulls.
Even though the Bulls went 5-19 in their first 24 games, we’ve learned some valuable lessons that should help this young team move forward.
1. The Bulls hit the jackpot, again, in the draft with Wendell Carter Jr. He has been impressive in the early part of the season, and as Markkanen, Portis and Dunn return from injuries, he will only get better.
2. We are finally starting to see the impact that Jabari Parker can have on the offensive end of the floor. Yes, improvements still need to be made on defense. However, as of late, I have noticed he has been putting forth a much better effort defensively.
3. The biggest surprise has been the play of Ryan Arcidiacono. He is the true definition of persistence, determination, sacrifice and opportunity. He has made the most of the minutes that he has played. Giving Fred Hoiberg the answer to the question “Who is the backup point guard when Dunn returns?”
With these lessons learned, the return of Markkanen and the anticipation of the return of Portis and Dunn in the next few weeks, it’s time to move forward.
While I watched this young Bulls team struggle through the beginning part of the season, I am reminded of my own, very similar, experiences in the league.
NBA
I’ve been in these players shoes. Playing for the Spurs, going 20-62 in an injury-plagued season. David Robinson and Sean Elliott were among the injured players, missing a majority of the season. Heck, the head coach was fired because the GM, Gregg Popovich (yes, that Gregg Popovich), didn’t like what was happening on the floor. Which is why my thoughts on the matter come from a place of experience, not just opinion.
My expectations moving forward:
1. Establish a leader. It’s time for this team to identify its leader. This player must be able to help the coaching staff hold the team accountable moving forward.
2. Earn the respect of your teammates. Your job as a player is to earn the respect of everyone in that organization on a daily basis. Not only in game, but during practices as well. Unlike golf and tennis, you not only have to answer to yourself, but you have to answer to your teammates as well. So, when you’re in the locker room after the game, regardless of the outcome, can you honestly look into your teammates eyes and say you gave your best effort? As long as the answer is a yes, the future will be bright.
3. Hoiberg now needs to set the team up for success. As the players come back from injury, it’s important to reintroduce them to their teammates. Saturday’s game against the Rockets was a perfect example. There were numerous occasions when Lauri was matched up with a much smaller defender, but never touched the ball in the post. This recognition should happen automatically. But with a younger team, its not that simple. This will continue to be a challenge for Hoiberg and the team. Just as Markkanen gets reacquainted on the floor, Dunn and Portis will be reintroduced to the lineup.
I understand there is plenty of work to be done, but moving forward, I expect to see improvement on a daily basis. Not just in wins and losses, but in the product that is put on the floor. I’m not one for moral victories, but considering the youth of this team and the adversity that this team has faced, we need to continue to accentuate the positives. That does not mean we accept mediocrity. This team will get better, because it has to.
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