Jan 30, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose (1) runs up the court alongside forward Pau Gasol (16) in the second half against the Phoenix Suns at US Airways Center. The Suns won 99-93. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Stewart-USA TODAY Sports
Chicago Bulls
Record: 30-20
First Half Highlight: Pau Gasol 46-point game vs Bucks
Analysis: Even though the Chicago Bulls have 30-plus wins already this season, there is a contingent among the NBA media that are going to view their first half of the seasons as a failure. Not necessarily because they should be winning more, or at a higher rate, but because we expected more because of the names on their roster.
There’s a distinct difference between the two.
In retrospect, the Bulls have taken a step back on the defensive end while taking a step forward on the offensive end. Jimmy Butler has been a tremendous story this season and Pau Gasol’s ability to still be effective is an equally important part of their early-season success.
The difference between this Bulls’ team being an elite one is Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah, both of which aren’t having the best of seasons.
Even though Rose has been healthy for the better-part of this season, it’s clear that he’s no longer going to be the player he was before his knee injuries. Noah, who has battled his fair share of injuries this season, might be getting run into the ground by Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau.
This isn’t good. I can only imagine what this team is going to look like — health and stamina wise — in month or two.
To reiterate, the Bulls have had a good, but not great season.
Grade: B-
Next: Cleveland Cavaliers