Conference Finals Envy, Luka’s Shot, Lonzo Ball Thoughts, and Other Bulls Bullets

At a wedding right outside Minneapolis this weekend, I’ve seen just how much this Timberwolves run matters. A section of Friday night’s dance floor was practically reserved for a crowd sweating out the game on a phone screen. Meanwhile, when I walked into a Starbucks this morning with a Nike basketball shirt on, the Barista immediately asked me if I had seen the game. 

The buzz after a 20-year-long wait is real, and I can tell you the confidence remains high despite the 2-0 deficit.

  • As my fellow wedding attendees heavily sighed after Luka Doncic’s clutch 3-pointer, I felt an overwhelming sense of jealousy. Sure, that moment stung, especially knowing the series is headed back to Dallas. But the reason it hurt so bad is because this team is in a position to legitimately do something special. The Chicago Bulls haven’t been in that position for years.
  • You knew Doncic was salivating the moment he saw Gobert standing along the perimeter. Still, this shot at this moment is ridiculous. I know these playoffs have been largely about Anthony Edwards, but this is a great reminder that Doncic is another generational talent deserving of a ring.
  • While the drought hasn’t been as long as Minnesota’s, we’re still well over a decade removed from the franchise’s last Eastern Conference Finals appearance. I know it’s extremely hard to get back to that point, but you’d at least think the Bulls would’ve toyed with the idea at some point. But no. Ever since Derrick Rose’s injury, it’s never felt like this organization has put itself in a real position to strike gold. Karnisovas can at least begin the process of changing that this offseason by pursuing drastic change. But I think we all remain skeptical of that happening. 
  • Lonzo Ball
    Nov 29, 2021; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball (2) and Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball (2) hug after the game at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

  • If one thing is for sure, Lonzo Ball’s latest words have me more concerned about Karnisovas’ offseason approach. The rehabbing point guard gave a bold proclamation, stating that he plans to suit up for the Bulls season opener next year. He insisted that this is the path he’s on, and there has been zero setbacks this time around. Matt outlined all of that in the post here
  • As much as I respect Ball for powering through this tough two-year stretch, I’ll believe he can play meaningful NBA minutes again when I see it. And I hope the front office is taking a similar approach. The dude literally needed someone to donate him a meniscus! We’re talking about a pretty remarkable procedure – one that may not be built for someone to continue a high-stress professional basketball career. Again, I’d love nothing more than for him to have a future in the league, but the Bulls can’t view him as a key part of the plan anymore. If they want to support him in his journey, that’s fine. Don’t use his return as an excuse to avoid real change, though. Got it, AK? 
  • In case you guys may have missed it, I spoke with projected lottery pick Matas Buzelis about growing up in Chicago and his journey to the big leagues. It would mean a lot to me if you checked it out! I really enjoyed putting the article together, and it’s a little something different for you. Hopefully, I can do more of this in the future!
  • Welcome to Chicago, Angel!
  • I love draft room content …
  • Making moves!
  • written by

    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.

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