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Chicago Bulls: 5 reasons for optimism despite poor record

By James D. Tillman III

MEMPHIS, TN - FEBRUARY 27: Lauri Markkanen #24 and Otto Porter Jr. #22 of the Chicago Bulls high five during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on February 27, 2019 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. 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 2019 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)
MEMPHIS, TN - FEBRUARY 27: Lauri Markkanen #24 and Otto Porter Jr. #22 of the Chicago Bulls high five during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on February 27, 2019 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. 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 2019 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)
(Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images) /

4. Lopez showing he still has game

Every team must have at least one player who does the little things that aren’t reflected in the stat sheet. Whether that involves setting good screens, hustling after loose balls or being a good presence in the locker room.

The player who fits the description on this Bulls’ roster is none other than Robin Lopez. It would be easy to overlook what Lopez brings to the table based on how he is utilized.

After all, his role was drastically reduced during the latter half of last season when the team opted to give the younger players more court time. That trend continued this year as the team’s No. 7 pick — Wendell Carter Jr. — was named as the starting center coming out of training camp.

In spite the limited playing time, Lopez continued to remain professional. Now that Carter will be forced to miss the rest of the season due to a thumb injury, Lopez’s role has increased and his production reflects that fact.

Aside from the four-point (on 2-for-7 shooting), three-rebound performance against the Grizzlies a few nights ago, Lopez has made his presence felt. During the month of February, Lopez scored at least 15 points six times. .

As a result, he averaged 15.5 points per contest on 64 percent shooting from the floor, which represents his highest scoring output by far in any other month this season.

He also registered a couple of 20-point performances in February as well, the first time he has accomplished the feat this season.

His recent eye-popping production and professional demeanor are just a few reasons why Boylen wouldn’t be opposed to Lopez being here next season.

"“It’s his decision, but any program, including us, would be grateful for him,’’ Boylen told the Chicago Sun-Times. “If he wants to be a part of what we’re doing, that would be great. “Obviously, the business side of it is the business side of it, but Bulls across his chest means something. Even through all the trade rumors, all the junk that goes on before the deadline, he has a winning attitude and a great spirit.’’"

Whether or not the Bulls are willing to bring Lopez back is an uncertainty, but what isn’t up for debate is the guy can still produce when his number is called, even though he had been used sparingly for most of the season.

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