Chicago Bulls: 5 early positives from 2017-18 NBA season

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - DECEMBER 6: Victor Oladipo #4 of the Indiana Pacers drives to the basket against the Chicago Bulls on December 6, 2017 at Bankers Life Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. 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 Ron Hoskins/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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5. The return of Nikola Mirotic

Although the Bulls weren’t expected to have much success this year, a preseason altercation between Bobby Portis and Nikola Mirotic certainly got the season off on the wrong foot, to say the least. As a result of the exchange, Portis was suspended eight games, while Mirotic sustained a concussion and multiple facial fractures.

Shortly after the incident, there were reports circling about Mirotic wanting to wave his no-trade clause because he no longer wanted to be in the same locker room as Portis – a sentiment that could have potentially divided the team.

Since that time, though, both players have found a way to be professional and compete against each other in practice without any incident. Even more to the point, Mirotic is scheduled to make his return in the upcoming game against the Charlotte Hornets and he appears to be in better spirits.

"“I’m not angry at anyone,” Mirotic told the Chicago Tribune. “I’m doing fine with myself. My family is great. There’s nothing to be angry about now. It’s all over. It’s a new beginning.”"

His return won’t help the Bulls get out of the basement in the Eastern Conference, but having another long distance shooter on the floor certainly won’t hurt either.

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