2018-19 NBA season: Record predictions for every team

Chicago Bulls

The Chicago Bulls project as an absolute mess on the defensive end. Fred Hoiberg benched Jabari Parker in an effort to solve those issues during preseason, but the Bulls still feature several below-average defenders.

Right now, Chicago is committed to Zach LaVine as their primary building block. His athleticism and scoring punch are valuable, but he’s far from an ideal No. 1 option. Lauri Markkanen, who might be the Bulls’ best player, will miss significant time with an elbow injury.

Once Markkanen returns, his production should take another step forward in his second season. He’s already an elite shooter at 7’0”, stretching the defense and opening up driving lanes for LaVine and others. It won’t win many games, but he’s their brightest light at the moment.

As for Parker, an eventual return to the starting five seems likely. On a $20 million contract, his development is something Chicago is focusing on. He’s plenty talented, but the former No. 2 pick needs to improve his conditioning and grow as a defender.

In the end, Hoiberg is an offensive-minded coach with offensive-minded personnel. There will be games where the points come easily for Chicago. It’s just a matter of slowing down the other team, something their current roster is ill-prepared to do.

LaVine looks ready to take another step forward. Wendell Carter Jr. might be the most underrated rookie in the 2018 class, giving the Bulls some stability on both ends when paired with Kris Dunn. And yet, it won’t be enough to consistently win games. Chicago is trending toward another lottery pick.

Final prediction: 28-54, Miss NBA Playoffs