Despite a dismal 11-16 start to the season, the Chicago Bulls are still adamant that they can make the NBA playoffs if their roster can get healthy. With key player Lonzo Ball still out of action this season, the Bulls appear to be holding onto the belief that the return of the two-way guard can turn their fortunes around.
Unshakable faith
According to a report from Jake Fisher of Yahoo Sports, the Chicago Bulls have turned down requests from other teams to trade several of their assets, led by five-time All-Star DeMar DeRozan and versatile big man Nikola Vucevic. Instead, the team is sticking to its belief that a healthy roster can still make them a postseason contender.
“Chicago officials have told inquiring teams they believe they can make the playoffs when healthy.” wrote Fisher.
However, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski recently reported that there is no guarantee that Ball will be fit for this season following his second knee surgery in September of this year. He tore a meniscus in January, had surgery to repair it, and has been struggling ever since.
While the Bulls have a surplus of defensemen like Alex Caruso, Ayo Dosunmu, Kobe White, Goran Dragic and rookie Dalen Terry, none have been able to replicate the impact that Ball had on both ends of the floor.
Vultures are circling
The Bulls have gone through a rollercoaster ride this season that was unimaginable after finishing last season 46-36 with a first-round scare over the mighty Milwaukee Bucks.
With the Feb. 9 trade deadline quickly approaching, contending teams are keeping a close eye on the Bulls and their decision-making.
Some of the targets in trade rumors include Vucevic and DeRozan, who could help playoff teams looking to add another star to the postseason. However, the Bulls’ determination to push for the playoffs strongly suggests they won’t pull any triggers while they have the chance.
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