NBA: The Big Question Facing Every Team In 2015-16
Chicago Bulls
Can Hoiberg Get The Bulls Over The Hump?
When the Chicago Bulls parted ways with Tom Thibodeau this summer, they were letting go of a defensive mastermind with a .647 winning percentage as an NBA head coach. With his one-of-a-kind gruffness, Bulls fans won’t soon forget the good ol’ days of Thibodeau barking at his players from the sidelines like a Saint Bernard with an asthma problem.
But as much as Thibs became a beloved Chicago sports fixture, his shortcomings as an X’s and O’s maestro on the offensive end (not to mention his penchant for running his starters into the ground) were a hindrance to the Bulls’ progress. With new head coach Fred Hoiberg at the helm, Chicago is hoping this is the hire that helps get this talented group over the hump.
Can fans expect Bulls to shoot 39 3-pointers in regular season? "If they're open and good looks, yeah," Hoiberg said.
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) October 7, 2015
For some, that hump has been the unfortunate timing of injuries to Derrick Rose, Joakim Noah, Derrick Rose again, Derrick Rose a third time and Pau Gasol last year. For others, it’s simply been summed up as “LeBron James.”
But if Hoiberg can revitalize a Thibs’ defense that took a step backward last year, while also implementing an effective offense and enjoying a healthy season for the starters, the Bulls may finally live up to their perpetual billing as an Eastern dark horse.
Next: Cleveland Cavaliers