NBA: What each team should be hoping for heading into the 2022 calendar year

Chicago Bulls: Health

The Chicago Bulls are bouncing back! A few weeks ago, they were one of the hardest-hit teams, COVID-wise. Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, and Nikola Vucevic have returned to the court, though. We’re still waiting on Lonzo Ball and Alex Caruso, though.

It’s a real bummer too, as the Bulls came out of the gate racing and were an early-season powerhouse. I think they can regain their footing when everyone returns, but fans should be hopinging for the healthy return of the defensive guards and the continued health of the whole roster.

Cleveland Cavaliers: All-Star bids and hardware

Full disclosure, I’ve watched more Cavaliers games than any other than my home team. I love this team. And everyone else should, too. Their young stars, Evan Mobley and Darius Garland have both had encounters with protocols recently. Mobley returned to the team this week, and Garland entered protocols soon after.

We’ll hope for their health. But beyond that, there isn’t much to hope for in Cleveland. The team is fifth in the East and is closer to the third seed than they are the sixth. They’re making the playoffs. So what should they hope for? Recognition!

Let’s get Jarrett Allen and Darius Garland some All-Star selections. Let’s get Mobley that ROY trophy. Any love for Rubio or Love in the Sixth Man race?