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*Photo via USA Today
“Change is the only constant in life.” Somebody forgot to tell the Chicago Bulls. After a disappointing early playoff exit, the Bulls are one of the only organizations to not make a roster change via trade or free agency. One would expect that after losing the depleted Cleveland Cavaliers there would be roster changes entering the 2015-16 season. Instead, Chicago made a coaching change.
The Bulls dismissed Tom Thibodeau after it was widely speculated that he and the front office have had a salty relationship during a majority of his tenure. Welcome to the Fred Hoiberg era Bulls fans. The front office believes in the current roster and with the offensive minded Hoiberg leading the herd, Chicago will be in the mix once again.
There are changes already coming out of Chicago as coach Hoiberg already made public, according to NBA Hour, that Joakim Noah and Pau Gasol will not start next to each other. Taj Gibson or Nikola Mirotic will be starting at power forward with Noah being an energy big off the bench. The addition of Bobby Portis in the draft will provide intensity, energy and depth to a roster that has been injury prone in recent years.
*Photo via Getty Images
The Bulls have a lot to look forward to next year despite the disappointment of last season. Chicago re-signed Jimmy Butler who will be a part of an elite backcourt with former MVP Derrick Rose. With solid floor spacer options in Mike Dunleavy Jr. and Doug McDermott, driving lanes and open threes will be a staple on offense.
The feel in Chicago is; new coach, new system, and new life. Give this group one more chance to prove they can win an NBA Championship. Bulls ownership believes they can, Hoiberg believes he can, and now it’s up to the players to believe it as well.