The 2024 preseason Chicago Bulls action continues to deliver a recurring theme from the 2023-24 regular season, clutch-game scenarios. In their first 2024 NBA preseason game, the Bulls squeezed out a clutch-game win against the Cleveland Cavaliers . Unfortunately, the pendulum swung to a clutch-game loss Saturday against the Memphis Grizzlies, 124-121.
Phase 2 of the Chicago Bulls Offensive Redesign
The Bulls' first half at home against the Grizzlies served as an initial validation of Billy Donovan and Arturas Karnisovas' desire to play a faster-paced offense . Zach LaVine led the way for the Bulls offense in the first half, shooting a nuclear 5/5 from the three-point line and scoring 24 points though two quarters.
Overall, the underlying structure of the Bulls' offensive transformation in the first half appeared to focus on moving the ball in transition defense more often than operating in half-court sets. The results were noticeable for the Bulls, winning the fast break points advantage in the first half 14-0.
Julian Phillips Detonates the Second Half
Second-year wing Julian Phillips took a single field-goal attempt in the first half, went into the locker room for halftime, and returned to the court with jump-shooting violence on his mind. Phillips shot 4/7 from the three-point line and scored 18 of his 21 points in the second half.
Patrick Williams Small Ball Center Minutes
With Jalen Smith sidelined, Patrick Williams drew the assignment to fill in as backup center and provided surprisingly effective minutes as a "small-ball" center.
Williams held his own in a size-disadvantaged defensive assignment guarding Grizzlies rookie center Zach Edey. Williams proved effective at fronting Edey and stealing the ball late in the third quarter.
What's On Tap Next?
The Bulls hit the road Monday for their next preseason game against the Milwaukee Bucks. The Bucks are banking on a full offseason of superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, acquired superstar Damian Lillard, and recently hired head coach Doc Rivers being the solution to return to title contention in the Eastern Conference. Monday's preseason game tips off at 7 p.m. CT and will air on CHSN .
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