Chicago Bulls
2017-18 record: 27-55
2017-18 season series: 2-1, Sixers
2018-19 advantage: Sixers
The Bulls might be an unmitigated disaster this season. Fred Hoiberg is an offensive-minded coach with offensive-minded players, but the Chicago defense might be the worst in the NBA. Lauri Markkanen, Jabari Parker and Zach LaVine are well below average on that end.
With that said, the Bulls do have some veteran assistance in the form of Robin Lopez and Bobby Portis. Kris Dunn has made himself a strong defensive presence at the point. There are some nice pieces there, even if the fit in questionable.
That most likely means a season filled with runs for the Bulls. Some hot streaks, some cold streaks, and an inevitable lottery pick in the end. LaVine, Markkanen and Wendell Carter Jr. is an appealing young core in many ways. Just don’t expect a ton of success this season.
Those defensive woes will be evident against teams as dynamic offensively as the Sixers. Not to mention the defensive end, where the Sixers match up extremely well. Chicago will be toward the bottom of the East.