2009-10:How good are the Bulls?

If anything is a given, it’s the degree of uncertainty surrounding the Chicago Bulls Roster.

Between player departures, infusion of rookies, and a point guard who may be ready to take it to the next level, it’s hard to identify in which direction the arrow will be pointed.

But, what we can do is toss around scenarios which will never be set in stone, but could possibly give a better estimate of what to expect under certain circumstances. Follow me as I run through the possibilities, best to worst, of what could be in store for the 09-10 Chicago Bulls.

It’s all gravy..

Derrick Rose evolves to such a level, that we begin discussing his name in regards to the top three or four point guards in the league. (Rose has put tons of work into jumpshot this summer). D Rose also sees a rise to his assist average, pushing it to 9 a game as he cements a reputation of being a point guard everybody wants to play with. Luol Deng comes back healthy and has the efficiency to show for it. (18 ppg, 50 fg %) Deng steps up to the plate, picking up the scoring while benefiting from running the floor with Derrick Rose.

Defensively, D Rose takes a step in the right direction as a contain defender. Joakim Noah proves the playoffs weren’t a fluke by averaging a double-double and giving Chicago that toughness and edge they need in the middle. Tyrus Thomas shows more offensive consistency(going out on a limb), and builds up some trade value at the same time. John Salmons plays a better team game as opposed to being a strait one-on-one scorer, and Kirk Hinrich’s hard nosed play and defensive approach continues to be a asset off the bench.

Ben Gordon’s name is quickly forgotten in the Chi. The Bulls develop a identity based on toughness and defense, while having a transition oriented attack. Finally, coach Del Negro makes it look like he knows what he’s doing.

Win/loss Record:52-30

Say it with me..Post Presence

Rose takes the necessary steps to stand out and not fall into the ’sophomore slump’ category. Luol Deng, however, can’t seem to stay healthy, and becomes public enemy number one in Chicago because of girth of his contract. Tyrus Thomas continues as a tease, barely scraping 7 rpg and leaving you wanting more offensively.

With Deng either out of the line-up or struggling, Salmons gets his touches and makes the best out of it, averaging 18-19 ppg. James Johnson fails to get a whole lot of run because, like most rookies, he can’t keep guys in front of him. On the subject of rookies, Taj Gibson doesn’t set the world on fire, but shows reasonable upside. (The word potential has been eliminated solely because of Tyrus Thomas) Joakim Noah remains productive as the Bulls center, but doesn’t quite live up to his stat-stuffing playoff performance.

This scenario defines mediocrity, with Luol Deng’s lack of productivity being at the center of the storm. A lot of the roster suffers from a down season, and the Bulls scratch for a 8th seed once again. Derrick Rose is the one who keeps the team alive and in playoff contention, but consistent help for Rose becomes glaring.

Win/loss record:41-41 (Getting a real coach headlines the season)

A season to forget

Chaos reigns in Chi-town. Derrick Rose doesn’t take ‘the leap’ as we like to call it. Us as fans lose our voices by telling Luol Deng how much he sucks, and what part that specifically entails. The loss of Ben Gordon is apparent, as Deng nor Salmons can pick up the load enough to soften the blow.

Venom is spewed at the Bulls roster much like the 07-08 team. Heightened expectations, followed by ample disappointment.

The only positive that comes out of a losing season is your ability to give the young players a long look for next year. This is where the only ray of light shines through, and his name is James Johnson. Young players need the time to make their mistakes, as Johnson proves this, but begins to show his unique offensive gifts for his size.

Regardless of Johnson’s development, the Bulls roster is headed for a crossroads beyond their superstar point guard. Get ready for the draft lottery, a coach firing, and hopefully a blockbuster trade.

Win/loss record:30-52

Which scenario is more conceivable?

As I said earlier, it’s a crapshoot trying to project a roster with so many variables.

Are the Bulls ready to take the next step in the Eastern Conference? Or are they destine for a season marked by disappointment and what could have been?

Confidence reigns supreme when I say the Bulls will net a season record of being over .500. In between the first two scenarios is where I’m pointing, thinking 47-48 wins isn’t a pipedream because of the evolution of our stud point guard. He must be our engine that never breaks down, goes 0-60 in a matter of seconds, and leaves dust on any opponent ready to race.

I throw the question at you, How good are the Bulls?

Tags: Ben Gordon, Chicago Bulls, Derrick Rose, Fast cars, Gravy is good, James Johnson, Joakim Noah, John Salmons, Luol Deng, Taj Gibson, Tyrus Thomas