NBA: Each Team’s Most Important Player Heading Into 2015-16

May 12, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah (13) reacts in the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers in game five of the second round of the NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

Joakim Noah, Chicago Bulls

2014-15 Stats: 7.2 points, 9.6 rebounds

A couple of years ago, Joakim Noah was in the conversation for NBA MVP. Last season, he looked like a shell of his former self. He struggled to make free throws and couldn’t even make a layup. It was actually quite fascinating to watch.

Nevertheless, the Bulls were clearly at a disadvantage without peak Noah, even considering they had a strong Pau Gasol to lean back on. But if this Bulls team is going to push the Cleveland Cavaliers again this season, they’re going to need a healthy Noah.

When he’s right and anchoring the paint, this Bulls team – along with a healthy Derrick Rose – is that much more of a threat in the Eastern Conference. That’s a big “if,” though.

Next: Cleveland Cavaliers