Strong Starts
It didn’t take long for the 2-0 Chicago Bulls to implement the new style of offense directed by first-year head coach Fred Hoiberg.
The difference in pace between a Hoiberg-led offense, to what the Bulls had with former head coach Tom Thibodeau has been evident early. As a result, Chicago looks to be a more balanced team.
In the Bulls’ 115-100 win over the Brooklyn Nets Wednesday night, Chicago shot 53.8 percent from the field, and 50 percent from beyond the arc. Under the former Iowa State head coach, the Bulls had 58 points in the first half through constant motion, and running up and down the floor at a pace we’ve never seen when Thibodeau was at the helm.
Over the two-game span, in which Chicago defeated Brooklyn and the LeBron James led Cleveland Cavaliers, the Bulls have shot 21-for-47 from beyond the arc, and are averaging 102 possessions per 48 minutes. A noticeable difference from what Bulls fans have seen in recent years.
The offense looks to be more up-tempo, and it appears that players are being given more freedom to operate. The spacing has looked good, while there seems to be a strong balance, as six players scored in double figures against the Nets. Chicago had five players score in double figures in the win over the Cavaliers as well.
As long as Chicago remembers what they have been on the defensive side of things, they will be a real threat in the Eastern Conference. The Bulls are still learning the new system through different rotations and sets, but it is clearly looking strong up to this point.
In years past, perhaps the Bulls had to play at a different pace due to the constant injuries; However, Chicago is getting healthier, and they are starting to learn more about what Hoiberg’s new style of offense entails. What might have been confusing at first has begun to click.
I'm a big fan of the new offense, minutes management, and using "all" of the bench. Good job @chicagobulls on your coach selection. #Bulls
— Dan S (@swinney23) October 29, 2015
A work in progress
Derrick Rose, or Jimmy Butler no longer have to be the guys that need to step up all the time when the Bulls are in need of a bucket, as it is clear wins will be a team effort in this new offense. Guys will get their touches, and while Chicago needs to limit its turnovers, unselfish play will be the name of the game. No player took more than 11 shot attempts in the win over the Nets on Wednesday evening.
When the Bulls are finding their spots, this team will be dangerous. They have plenty of shooters, and play-makers who know what to do when the ball is in their hands.
Countless Bulls players have said that Hoiberg is not one to bark and scream orders. He is more of a players coach, and prefers to work with the team to build a more positive relationship with his players. He is making basketball fun again in Chicago, and it very well could be the reason for their early success.
Through this new offense, Hoiberg is making life easier on everyone. Perhaps that is just what the Bulls needed.
This #Bulls offense is 🔥 tonight. 12 minutes left in this one. pic.twitter.com/1iEpTyKEgJ
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) October 29, 2015
