Chicago Bulls: Biggest strengths and weaknesses for 2017-18

CHICAGO, IL - OCTOBER 11: Fred Hoiberg of the Chicago Bulls huddles during the Chicago Bulls All Access practice on October 11, 2016 at the Advocate Center in Chicago, Illinois. 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 2016 NBAE (Photo by Gary Dineen/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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Strength No. 3: Up-and-coming star

With Butler’s departure, the Bulls lost an established three-time All-Star who has increased his scoring average every season he’s been in the league. Along with that, Butler was capable of carrying his team when players were out with injuries.

This was a hard pill to swallow for Bulls fans, who had watched Butler blossom into one of the best two-way players in the NBA. At the same time, perhaps all hope is not lost just yet.

Zach LaVine — the centerpiece of the draft-night trade between the Bulls and Timberwolves is working his way back from a torn ACL injury. This isn’t what you want to hear if you’re a diehard follower of this team, considering how this injury robbed a former Bulls MVP of his athletic ability.

The positive here is LaVine was on his way to establishing himself as an All-Star before he was forced to miss the remainder of the season. In 47 appearances, the third-year guard posted averages of 18.9 points, 3.4 rebounds and 3.0 assists per contest on 46 percent shooting overall and 39 percent from 3-point range.

Furthermore, LaVine has increased his scoring average and overall shooting percentage in both seasons following his rookie campaign. While the fans will have to wait a while to see what LaVine brings to the table on a nightly basis, he does have potential. If he can return to form, perhaps he too will become a threat at both ends of the floor over the next few seasons.

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