header-emailNEWSLETTER
BN Chicago Bulls Off to the NBA Finals,....

Off to the NBA Finals, Keep an Eye on Boston, 76ers Add Nurse, and Other Bulls Bullets

Elias Schuster Elias Schuster
May 30, 2023
Chicago Bulls

It’s official: If Diar DeRozan was in Miami, the Chicago Bulls would be headed to their first NBA Finals since the 1997-98 season.

Arguably the biggest mistake yet by this Bulls’ front office.

  • After falling down 3-0, the Boston Celtics clawed their way back and forced a Game 7 on their home floor. They were in a prime position to become the first team in NBA history to ever advance in a series after facing that 3-0 deficit. Instead, they became the 151st team to come up short. I don’t know if it was tired legs, locker room tension, or mere inconsistency, but Boston’s final fight wasn’t at all convincing. Honestly, when we consider just how flat they looked last night, it feels like everyone would’ve been better off if this series ended a week ago.

  • Miami was in full control from the opening tip. They held Boston to a season-low 84 points, as they shot just 39.0 percent from the floor and turned the ball over 15 times. While no one can necessarily deny that Boston is the far more talented team, it’s abundantly clear they were not the more polished, focused, and consistent team. I got to give it to Miami for displaying all those qualities. A squad with Jimmy Butler on the court and Eric Spoelstra on the sideline will never be an easy out. And the Denver Nuggets will be the next team to see just that.

  • Look, I know Butler’s whole thing is to prove people wrong, but I’m still taking the Nuggets in this series. My guess would be they get the job done in six games. To be honest, part of me wants to say they do it in four or five, but I have to give this Miami team at least some respect. At the end of the day, however, I simply think Jokic will prove to be the best player on the floor. Also, while we just saw a more talented team lose to the Heat, I think the Nuggets are more talented AND more disciplined. They’re not going to experience the same kind of highs and lows we saw from the Celtics.

  • After losing to the Celtics in the East Finals last year, Butler vowed he would be back in the same position in 2023. He was right. His leadership style may not be for everyone (*cough* Chicago *cough* Minnesota *cough* Philly), but maybe it should be (*cough* Chicago *cough* Minnesota *cough* Philly).

  • So, um, what do the Celtics do now? The biggest question they have to answer is whether Jaylen Brown is worth the supermax extension that he’ll likely demand. Making All-NBA, he’s now going to be one of the highest-paid wings in the league. And while it would sound silly to break up a duo that has made two straight East Finals, the new CBA isn’t making it any more palatable to control two of the highest-paid player in the NBA. So my guess is that the rumors really start to pick up steam as draft night looms. We’ll see where extension talks go, but it’s not out of the question that he’s on another team by the time October runs around.

  • While I don’t think the Bulls will find themselves in any Jaylen Brown discussions, I do think his name could indirectly impact the front office’s plans. If they were to pursue a significant trade with either DeMar DeRozan or Zach LaVine, interested teams may not want to talk in earnest until they know if they can get their hands on Brown. The Trail Blazers, in particular, would feel like a team that could have tons of interest in Brown’s win-now/two-way skillset next to Lillard.

  • To Brown’s credit, I love the way he took accountability after the Celtics’ loss. Someone show this to the Bulls’ front office!

  • What an elite city matchup we have here. I’m truly jealous of all the media members that get to fly back and forth. A lot of fun will be had.

  • The Eastern Conference has seen two new coaches hired over the last week. And both come from the same organization. The Milwaukee Bucks hired Toronto assistant and former Bulls coach Adrian Griffin to be their new leading man. Meanwhile, former Raptors head coach Nick Nurse has reportedly agreed to take over the 76ers’ job. Two more jobs in the East remain open, including a spot with the Detroit Pistons and the Raptors. The Phoenix Suns also have yet to hire their replacement for Monty Williams.

    • Nick Nurse Reportedly Inks Deal to Become 76ers’ New Head Coach

  • Out of all the openings left, I’m most interested to see what the Raptors do. Similar to how the Celtics’ offseason can have ripple effects, the Raptors’ coaching hire could tell us a lot about what the future of the franchise looks like. We know they were reportedly contemplating blowing things up at the trade deadline. I have to imagine that option is still on the table after losing to Chicago in the Play-In Tournament. If they hire a more developmental-minded candidate, perhaps Toronto will finally take a step back and put names like Pascal Siakam and OG Anunoby on the trading block. This could, once again, be bad news for the Bulls if they’re looking to get a big return on their assets.

  • Why don’t more teams battle overseas opponents in the offseason?

  • Yeah … I’m worrying.

    • Worrying, But Also Not Worrying, About the Standings and Other Cubs Bullets

  • GIVE JUSTIN FIELDS ALL OF THE WEAPONS!

    • Best Landing Spots for DeAndre Hopkins and Fantasy Football Implications

    Read More

    written by

    Elias Schuster

    Elias Schuster is the Lead Chicago Bulls writer at Bleacher Nation. He started with BN full-time in 2019 immediately after graduating from the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign with a degree in Journalism (yes, he started with the Jim Boylen Era). Since joining, Elias has been the driving force behind Bulls and NBA content for both the site and social accounts. You can follow him on Twitter/X @Schuster_Elias.

    more bulls news

    Chicago Bulls

    Nikola Vucevic Hit Up the Orlando Magic’s Playoff Game Last Night

    Despite launching a complete rebuild since the last made the postseason in 2019-20, the Orlando Magic had a familiar face in the building on Thursday night. Current Bulls starting center Nikola Vucevic was sitting courtside for the Magic's Game 3...

    Elias Schuster Elias Schuster
    Apr 26, 2024
    Chicago Bulls

    This Chart Puts Into Perspective Just How Bad the Bulls’ Last Decade Has Been

    I don't need to tell you for the millionth time that the Chicago Bulls have been a massive disappointment over the last decade. So I'll just show you! RealGM put together an infographic that outlines each NBA team's net rating...

    Elias Schuster Elias Schuster
    Apr 26, 2024
    Chicago Bulls

    Waiting for the Bulls to Join the Chicago Sports Renaissance (and Other Bulls Bullets)

    The Bears drafted Caleb Williams and Rome Odunze. The Blackhawks drafted Connor Bedard. The Sky drafted Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso. The Cubs have the best farm system in baseball. Welcome to the Chicago Sports Renaissance! Feel free to join...

    Elias Schuster Elias Schuster
    Apr 26, 2024
    Chicago Bulls

    Joel Embiid is Reportedly Suffering from Bell’s Palsy … and Still Dropped 50

    Joel Embiid cut into the New York Knicks series lead on Thursday night. With the Round 1 battle heading back to Philadelphia, Embiid looked like the reigning MVP with 50 points on 13-19 shooting and a 19-21 performance from the...

    Elias Schuster Elias Schuster
    Apr 25, 2024
    Chicago Bulls

    And Now DeMar DeRozan is Snubbed of the Clutch Player of the Year Award

    DeMar DeRozan joins Coby White as an award-season snub. The NBA officially announced Thursday that Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors won the second-ever Clutch Player of the Year award. DeRozan finished as a finalist for the recognition for...

    Elias Schuster Elias Schuster
    Apr 25, 2024
    Chicago Bulls

    Jealous of the Bears, Ghosts of Draft Night Past, DeRozan’s Shot Quality, and Other Bulls Bullets

    Happy Caleb Williams Day to all who celebrate! Half of my brain is telling me to keep a wall up. The Chicago Bears QB history has been rancid enough that we should wait for at least a taste of Caleb...

    Elias Schuster Elias Schuster
    Apr 25, 2024
    Chicago Bulls

    Chicago Sky’s Angel Reese Officially Introduced, And She Sounds Motivated

    The new face of the Chicago Sky franchise officially arrived on Wednesday. Angel Reese met with media members at the Sachs Recreation Center in Deerfield. The former LSU standout and NCAA National Champion is only nine days removed from hearing...

    Elias Schuster Elias Schuster
    Apr 24, 2024
    DeMar DeRozan sits on the bench for the Chicago Bulls.
    Chicago Bulls

    Chicago Bulls Contracts: Decisions That Have to Be Made This Offseason

    While the NBA offseason will not officially start until June, it still can't hurt to familiarize ourselves with the Chicago Bulls' summer outlook. The organization finds itself at quite the crossroads, and it's not only because they disappointed fans with...

    Elias Schuster Elias Schuster
    Apr 24, 2024
    Alex Caruso of the Chicago Bulls
    Chicago Bulls

    Alex Caruso Defends Coby White, Offseason Trade Candidates, and Other Bulls Bullets

    Good morning to everyone except those who voted Tyrese Maxey first for the NBA's Most Improved Player. https://www.bleachernation.com/bulls/2024/04/23/coby-white-snubbed-mip-23/ As I clarified in our Coby White snubbed post, I have absolutely nothing against Tyrese Maxey. He's an outstanding player with a...

    Elias Schuster Elias Schuster
    Apr 24, 2024
    Chicago Bulls

    Coby White Snubbed of Most Improved Player Award

    Coby White will not be taking home any hardware after his breakout season. The Chicago Bulls guard was in the running for the NBA's Most Improved Player award this season, finishing as one of three finalists for the honor. However,...

    Elias Schuster Elias Schuster
    Apr 23, 2024
    More Posts

    Latest News

    Picks

    Brook Lopez Player Props: Three-Pointer Props and Odds vs. the Pacers – NBA Playoffs Game 3, Friday, April 26, 2024

    Brook Lopez must make two 3-pointers to beat his prop when the Milwaukee Bucks face the Indiana Pacers on Friday at 5:30 PM ET, in Game 3 of the opening round of the NBA playoffs.Brook Lopez's Three-Pointer Prop Odds vs....

    Data Skrive Data Skrive
    Apr 26, 2024
    Picks

    Karl-Anthony Towns Player Props: Three-Pointer Props and Odds vs. the Suns – NBA Playoffs Game 3, Friday, April 26, 2024

    On Friday at 10:30 PM ET, the Minnesota Timberwolves face the Phoenix Suns in Game 3 of the opening round of the NBA playoffs, and Karl-Anthony Towns' 3-pointer prop for this matchup requires two treys.Karl-Anthony Towns' Three-Pointer Prop Odds vs....

    Data Skrive Data Skrive
    Apr 26, 2024
    Picks

    Kevin Durant Player Props: Three-Pointer Props and Odds vs. the Timberwolves – NBA Playoffs Game 3, Friday, April 26, 2024

    To beat his 3-point over/under, Kevin Durant needs to make three from downtown on Friday, when his Phoenix Suns play the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 3 of the opening round of the NBA playoffs, tipping off at 10:30 PM ET.Kevin...

    Data Skrive Data Skrive
    Apr 26, 2024
    Picks

    Anthony Edwards Player Props: Three-Pointer Props and Odds vs. the Suns – NBA Playoffs Game 3, Friday, April 26, 2024

    To beat his 3-point over/under, Anthony Edwards must make three from downtown on Friday, when his Minnesota Timberwolves face the Phoenix Suns in Game 3 of the opening round of the NBA playoffs, tipping off at 10:30 PM ET.Anthony Edwards'...

    Data Skrive Data Skrive
    Apr 26, 2024
    Picks

    Devin Booker Player Props: Three-Pointer Props and Odds vs. the Timberwolves – NBA Playoffs Game 3, Friday, April 26, 2024

    Devin Booker needs to make three 3-pointers to beat his prop when the Phoenix Suns meet the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday at 10:30 PM ET, in Game 3 of the opening round of the NBA playoffs.Devin Booker's Three-Pointer Prop Odds...

    Data Skrive Data Skrive
    Apr 26, 2024
    Picks

    Giants vs. Pirates Prediction: Expert Picks, Odds, Stats & Best Bets – Friday, April 26, 2024

    The San Francisco Giants (12-14) host the Pittsburgh Pirates (13-13) on Friday to begin a three-game series, with the first pitch at 10:15 PM ET from Oracle Park. The Giants are listed as -143 favorites, while the underdog Pirates have...

    Data Skrive Data Skrive
    Apr 26, 2024
    Picks

    Diamondbacks vs. Mariners Prediction: Expert Picks, Odds, Stats & Best Bets – Friday, April 26, 2024

    The Seattle Mariners (13-12) enter Friday's matchup with the Arizona Diamondbacks (12-14) following their 2-1 series victory over the Rangers. The Diamondbacks, coming off of a series loss against the Cardinals, are listed as -130 favorites for Game 1. The...

    Data Skrive Data Skrive
    Apr 26, 2024
    Picks

    Angels vs. Twins Prediction: Expert Picks, Odds, Stats & Best Bets – Friday, April 26, 2024

    The Los Angeles Angels (10-15) and Minnesota Twins (11-13) meet Friday at Angel Stadium of Anaheim, with first pitch at 9:38 PM ET on BSN. The Angels are -115 moneyline favorites for the contest, however, the Twins are favored against...

    Data Skrive Data Skrive
    Apr 26, 2024
    Picks

    Phillies vs. Padres Prediction: Expert Picks, Odds, Stats & Best Bets – Friday, April 26, 2024

    Coming off of a 2-2 series split with the Reds, the Philadelphia Phillies (16-10) are -114 favorites to pick up the win in Game 1 of a three-game series against the San Diego Padres (14-14). The series begins at PETCO...

    Data Skrive Data Skrive
    Apr 26, 2024
    Picks

    James Harden Player Props: Three-Pointer Props and Odds vs. the Mavericks – NBA Playoffs Game 3, Friday, April 26, 2024

    James Harden must make three 3-pointers to beat his over/under when the Los Angeles Clippers meet the Dallas Mavericks on Friday at 8:00 PM ET, in Game 3 of the opening round of the NBA playoffs.James Harden's Three-Pointer Prop Odds...

    Data Skrive Data Skrive
    Apr 26, 2024
    More Posts

    more bulls news

    This Chart Puts Into Perspective Just How Bad the Bulls’ Last Decade Has Been

    Nikola Vucevic Hit Up the Orlando Magic’s Playoff Game Last Night

    Waiting for the Bulls to Join the Chicago Sports Renaissance (and Other Bulls Bullets)

    Joel Embiid is Reportedly Suffering from Bell’s Palsy … and Still Dropped 50

    And Now DeMar DeRozan is Snubbed of the Clutch Player of the Year Award

    Jealous of the Bears, Ghosts of Draft Night Past, DeRozan’s Shot Quality, and Other Bulls Bullets

    Chicago Sky’s Angel Reese Officially Introduced, And She Sounds Motivated

    DeMar DeRozan sits on the bench for the Chicago Bulls.

    Chicago Bulls Contracts: Decisions That Have to Be Made This Offseason

    Alex Caruso of the Chicago Bulls

    Alex Caruso Defends Coby White, Offseason Trade Candidates, and Other Bulls Bullets

    Coby White Snubbed of Most Improved Player Award

    More Posts

    Most Popular

    Most Popular

    Jim Harbaugh Just Had The Quote Of Draft Night

    Chicago Cubs Sign Old Friend Dan Straily

    Pete Crow-Armstrong’s First Big League? A GO-AHEAD, GAME-WINNING HOME RUN!

    Chicago Cubs Sign Brazilian-Japanese Pitcher Daniel Missaki Out of Mexican League

    The Leadoff Role, Cubs Front Office is Not Particularly Well-Liked? And Other Cubs Bullets

    Enhanced Box Score: Cubs 3, Astros 1 – April 25, 2024

    What Picks Do the Chicago Blackhawks Own in the 2024 NHL Draft?

    Pre-Gamin’: Astros at Cubs (1:20 CT) – Lineups, Pitching Matchup, Broadcast Info, Game Thread

    Latest News

    Brook Lopez Player Props: Three-Pointer Props and Odds vs. the Pacers – NBA Playoffs Game 3, Friday, April 26, 2024

    Karl-Anthony Towns Player Props: Three-Pointer Props and Odds vs. the Suns – NBA Playoffs Game 3, Friday, April 26, 2024

    Kevin Durant Player Props: Three-Pointer Props and Odds vs. the Timberwolves – NBA Playoffs Game 3, Friday, April 26, 2024

    Anthony Edwards Player Props: Three-Pointer Props and Odds vs. the Suns – NBA Playoffs Game 3, Friday, April 26, 2024

    Devin Booker Player Props: Three-Pointer Props and Odds vs. the Timberwolves – NBA Playoffs Game 3, Friday, April 26, 2024

    Giants vs. Pirates Prediction: Expert Picks, Odds, Stats & Best Bets – Friday, April 26, 2024

    Diamondbacks vs. Mariners Prediction: Expert Picks, Odds, Stats & Best Bets – Friday, April 26, 2024

    Angels vs. Twins Prediction: Expert Picks, Odds, Stats & Best Bets – Friday, April 26, 2024

    Phillies vs. Padres Prediction: Expert Picks, Odds, Stats & Best Bets – Friday, April 26, 2024

    James Harden Player Props: Three-Pointer Props and Odds vs. the Mavericks – NBA Playoffs Game 3, Friday, April 26, 2024

    Kawhi Leonard Player Props: Three-Pointer Props and Odds vs. the Mavericks – NBA Playoffs Game 3, Friday, April 26, 2024

    Luka Doncic Player Props: Three-Pointer Props and Odds vs. the Clippers – NBA Playoffs Game 3, Friday, April 26, 2024

    Kyrie Irving Player Props: Three-Pointer Props and Odds vs. the Clippers – NBA Playoffs Game 3, Friday, April 26, 2024

    Paul George Player Props: Three-Pointer Props and Odds vs. the Mavericks – NBA Playoffs Game 3, Friday, April 26, 2024

    WATCH: The Moment Caleb Williams Found Out He Was Going to the Chicago Bears

    More Posts

    Most Popular

    Most Popular

    Jim Harbaugh Just Had The Quote Of Draft Night

    Chicago Cubs Sign Old Friend Dan Straily

    Pete Crow-Armstrong’s First Big League? A GO-AHEAD, GAME-WINNING HOME RUN!

    Chicago Cubs Sign Brazilian-Japanese Pitcher Daniel Missaki Out of Mexican League

    The Leadoff Role, Cubs Front Office is Not Particularly Well-Liked? And Other Cubs Bullets

    Enhanced Box Score: Cubs 3, Astros 1 – April 25, 2024

    What Picks Do the Chicago Blackhawks Own in the 2024 NHL Draft?

    Pre-Gamin’: Astros at Cubs (1:20 CT) – Lineups, Pitching Matchup, Broadcast Info, Game Thread

    21 Play Responsibly
    Gamble Aware West Virginia
    Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-Gambler.