Predictions

I've noticed that while most people are predicting the number of Bulls wins somewhere in the 30's (probably not decklap), almost every single NBA analyst has picked them to do just a tiny bit better than last season, including ESPN, NBC, and NBA self-labeled experts.

In the early pre-season

If you look at last years stats, I would sure hope the Bulls do better:

1. Their shooting percentage was .415. They can hardly not improve. 2. They got outrebounded by one board per game. As the season progressed, Artest and Brand made things near even. Of the guys they lost Simpkins was the best rebounder, but he didn't always know what to do with the ball when got it. 3. They were beaten in the assist category by 23-20 per game and gave up two more turnovers per game. Kukoc and Brown got a lot of assists, but this should be a definite improvement category. 4. They didn't do great from the three point arc last year, so they could improve if somebody steps up as their three point specialist. 5. They were outscored about 94-85 per game last year. No matter how good you are defensively, 85 points per game is a scary statistic. Losing preseason games 104-103 may be a better omen than winning them 70-65.

Mike McGinley Hoffman Estates, IL

the game the other night against the wizards was not lost late because of rookie nervousness because the three of the bulls starters, mercer, artest and brand and even el-amin were still in the game at the end of the game while all the wizards starters were on the bench and the bulls still lost. so I can't really agree with that original post. the bulls, however, should be improved over last season.