PROTECT THE PAINT

The Chicago Bulls put on an impressive display in yesterdays preseason game vs the Utah Jazz in London’s O2 Arena. Pundits are all saying Boston Celtics this, Cleveland Cavaliers that, and Orlando will be in it for the Eastern Conference Championship, but folks should not overlook the Chicago Bulls. They played tough last year in the playoffs, and should only be better this season.

Sure it was the preseason, but there are some strong indications that the Bulls are a team that nobody can afford to fall asleep on this year. And here are some reasons why.

Deng looks deng good. (Credit: AP)

Luol Deng appears to have no lingering affects from his injuries. He dropped in 18 points on 8-12 shooting in just 25 minutes. It is beyond imperative that the Bulls have a healthy Deng in their lineup this season. If he is capable of playing the way he did before he signed his gigantic contract in 2007 the Bulls will cause major match up issues. WIth Ben Gordon gone, look for Deng’s and everyone’s numbers to increase as unselfish ball will return to Chicago.

Rookies James Johnson and Taj Gibson are a lot better than people think. James Johnson reminds me of Tyrus Thomas, but seems to have a clue about making drives to the basket, drawing contact,  and making monstrous dunks.

Both Gibson and Johnson had 2 impressive blocked shots apiece. This bodes well for the Bulls. Their second unit will not drop off in attacking the rim either defensively or offensively.

The Bulls played well without Derrick Rose and John Salmons. Kirk Hinrich and Jannero Pargo started in the backcourt and combined for 27 points shooting 10-21 from the field and 9 assists. More impressive was the combined 5-8 from 3point range.

So when Rose and Salmons rest, the Bulls have offensive weapons to make sure there is little to no drop off.

Joakim Noah played out of his mind defensively. His 6 blocked shots in 26 minutes was nothing less than unreal. Once he sits, Brad Miller will take over, making life hell for the opposition’s second unit center with his savvy arsenal of crafty moves and passing skills. They might appear in slow motion, but they are highly effective.

If Chicago continues to meld together the way they played last night, only good things can be on their horizon.

James Johnson will lead the second unit in Chicago (Credit: AP)

Albeit it only a preseason game, the Utah Jazz always play hard under Jerry Sloan.

The Bulls should be very happy with how they performed, and what they have heading into this season. A ton of youth, depth at every position, and a dash of veteran experience make for a dangerous NBA recipe.

A warning to all NBA teams: do not fall asleep on the Bulls, or you will most likely experience a harsh awakening.

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