3. Establish a defensive identity
This was covered briefly already, but its importance bears repeating. Chicago fans demand a strong defensive effort. The current roster has rarely shown glimpses of being able to meet that expectation.
Last season, the Chicago Bulls were a bad defensive team, giving up 110 points a game while allowing opponents to shoot 47.2 percent from the field. Both statistics put the Bulls in the bottom three in defensive rankings. Their defense was 29th in effective field percentage, allowing teams to shoot 54.2 percent.
Adding Parker and keeping LaVine will not help these numbers unless there is a renewed commitment to playing defense, which seems unlikely.
Now that the Bulls have finally developed a younger and more athletic roster, the focus will be on the offensive end, particularly due to Hoiberg’s offensive background. That doesn’t mean this team cannot put forth some sort of defensive effort. In fact, length and athleticism is ideal for establishing a defensive effort.
Expecting this team to become a defensive juggernaut is farfetched. However, with Kris Dunn as the catalyst and Carter defending the paint area, there is potential for improvement. It’s up to the coaching staff to develop a defensive scheme that plays to the roster’s strengths.
This team is in desperate need to find itself defensively. Playing strong, smart defense is key in competing for higher levels of success. This is a team needing to create a defensive identity this season. Failure to do so will lead to continual bottom-feeding in the standings.