This morning we wondered what approach Billy Donovan would take in the Chicago Bulls’ final preseason game, and we now have our answer.
The head coach announced roughly two hours before tip-off that Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan would take the night off. The two All-Stars had appeared in each of the team’s previous three games, with DeRozan averaging 24.7 minutes and LaVine 21.8 minutes per contest.
With the Bulls’ two primary scorers off the floor, the door has been opened for several role players to leave their mark. All eyes should especially fall on Patrick Williams, who saw himself dropped into the second unit ahead of the team’s second preseason battle. Javonte Green has looked worthy of the fifth spot in the starting lineup, but perhaps Williams can reclaim his role with a big performance tonight.
Meanwhile, players like Malcolm Hill, Kostas Antetokounmpo, and Carlik Jones could be in store for their most minutes yet. Each is fighting for the team’s final two-way contract, and this will be their last opportunity to catch the front office’s attention.