Chicago Bulls: 5 most intriguing games in 2017-18

LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 14: Denzel Valentine #45 of the Chicago Bulls dribbles the ball against the Philadelphia 76ers on July 14, 2017 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 14: Denzel Valentine #45 of the Chicago Bulls dribbles the ball against the Philadelphia 76ers on July 14, 2017 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images
Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images /

5. Opening night vs. Toronto Raptors

A year ago, the Bulls kicked off their season opener against the Boston Celtics. Thanks to this clutch shot from Dwyane Wade, they came away with a thrilling 105-99 victory.

The good news is the Bulls have won 11 of the previous 12 contests between these two teams over the past four seasons. The bad news is this will be the first game of the long-awaited rebuild, and the Bulls don’t have the same roster that dominated the Raptors during that stretch.

To add insult on top of injury, it is doubtful that Zach LaVine — who the Bulls acquired in a draft-night trade for Jimmy Butler — will be in the starting lineup. Taking that into consideration, it is doubtful the Bulls will have the firepower they need to keep up with the Raptors.

The Bulls began their 2016-17 campaign with three straight victories. However, the fanbase should not expect them to duplicate the early success they enjoyed last season.