Chicago Bulls: 3 steps they must take to make the playoffs in 2022

Chicago Bulls steps to the NBA playoffs: 3. Push the ball in transition

It’s no secret that scoring is up in the NBA. However, it is not at an all-time high. When compared to the late ’80s and early ’90s, the points per game are actually very similar to today’s era. The major difference in scoring comes not from the amount of points score but the way in which those points are achieved. 3-point attempts and makes are at a frequency few would’ve thought possible just a little as ten years ago.

The Chicago Bulls have a roster that is capable of scoring points the old-fashioned way, a style of play some would refer to as “run and gun.” Not only do they have a floor general in Lonzo Ball who can see the court at an elite level and is great at finding the open man, but they also have several athletes who excel on the fast break. Guys like Zach LaVine and Derrick Jones Jr. are among the highest leapers and best dunkers in the league. DeMar DeRozan, Patrick Williams and Javonte Green are also known to finish above the rim. The Bulls have a roster with the potential to be a throwback to an era where teams averaged more slam dunks than 3-pointers.

Easy buckets are one of the best ways to cripple an opposing defense. Teams with a high defensive IQ know how to catch their breath while playing half-court defense. This is especially true of veteran players who know how to pick and choose their spots. However, if the Bulls take advantage of their youth and athleticism, they should be one of the league leaders in transition buckets. That alone could be the deciding factor in a few close contests between evenly matched teams.