Chicago Bulls: 5 observations from 5-game win streak

1. Unlikely duo leading the way

The preseason altercation that took place between Nikola Mirotic and Bobby Portis has been well documented and while it was questionable as to whether the to players could put aside their differences, they have certainly contributed to the Bulls’ five-game winning streak.

Let’s start with Mirotic.

Since he has returned to the rotation, Mirotic has played like a man on a mission. In fact, the fourth-year forward is averaging 20.0 points and 6.2 rebounds per outing on 53.8 percent shooting overall and a 50 percent conversion rate from beyond the arc. It should also be noted that Mirotic has scored at least 22 points in each of the last three games as a starter.

Not too bad for a guy who often went MIA after solid performances.

While Mirotic has certainly held his own, Portis has also put up some pretty impressive numbers as well. During the streak, Portis’ averages include 15.6 points and 6.2 boards per contest. What is even more impressive is the fact that Portis is shooting 61.5 percent from the field, including a 47.7 percent conversion rate from long distance.

What started out as a volatile situation between teammates vying for playing time at the same position has surprisingly turned into a scenario in which both players are producing at a high level.

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It will be interesting to see if both will remain an integral part of the team’s long-term plans moving forward.