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Could the Chicago Bulls be a fun team to watch in 2017-18?

By Alex Eddy

BOSTON, MA - APRIL 26: Fred Hoiberg Head Coach of the Chicago Bulls looks on during the third quarter of Game Five of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden on April 26, 2017 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
BOSTON, MA - APRIL 26: Fred Hoiberg Head Coach of the Chicago Bulls looks on during the third quarter of Game Five of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden on April 26, 2017 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /
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Despite losing Jimmy Butler and Dwyane Wade over the course of one summer, could the Chicago Bulls be a sneaky fun team in 2017-18?

Many people surrounding the basketball world expect the Chicago Bulls to be the worst team in the NBA this season. Although it was a preseason game, the Bulls showed flashes of tremendous potential in a win against the Cavaliers earlier this week.

The Bulls were led by Justin Holiday, Lauri Markkanen, and Denzel Valentine in a 108-94 victory against Cleveland. Holiday led all scorers with 28 points (8-16 from the field) and also added 11 rebounds. Holiday is back in his second stint with the Bulls and he rekindles his relationship with Doug Collins from their 76ers days. Don’t be fooled by his skinny frame. He plays tough, can hit outside shots, and is a terrific rebounder for a guard.

Markkanen is the exciting rookie from Arizona who has one of the most beautiful shooting strokes. Markkanen added 18 points and five rebounds, and like Holiday, shot 4-7 from distance. Markkanen showed us his ability to stretch the floor, he hit a gorgeous fadeaway jumper over Kyle Korver, and he ran the floor well. Once he gets accustomed to the speed of the NBA game, he should be a consistent piece for this franchise going forward.

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Denzel Valentine added 14 points of his own, seven rebounds, and four assists. Valentine should see a much increased role this season. He is a high basketball IQ player, can run the offense, can create for others, and can hit outside shots.

The Chicago Bulls don’t have a true star to give the basketball to. Perhaps Zach LaVine could be that guy eventually. For now, this team has a lot of young players that will grow and learn together. The Bulls had 24 assists against the Cavaliers, and when they play unselfish basketball, they are much more fun to watch (and much more effective).

There are still questions surrounding the point guard position with Jerian Grant and Kris Dunn (who is injured), but as mentioned, Denzel Valentine could fit into that role.

Last year was tough because Dwyane Wade, Jimmy Butler, and Rajon Rondo were all on the roster. So, Fred Hoiberg had to balance the veterans with the youth on the team, and it just didn’t work out.

Must Read: NBA: 10 bold predictions for the 2017-18 campaign

This year seems like a fresh start for the Chicago Bulls with all the young faces on this team. They may just end up surprising us.

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