Five Most Important Games For Chicago Bulls In 2015

Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

October 27 — Opening Night vs. Cleveland Cavaliers

The Chicago Bulls’ 2014 season ended in the hands of the Cleveland Cavaliers. Also, it ended in the hands of a team led by LeBron James…again.

When the Bulls last faced the Cavaliers, key members of the team were dealing with injuries and/or fatigue. Noah could barely get off the floor dealing with knee issues, as was Gibson. Pau Gasol got injured early in the series that made him a non-factor.

With a summer of rest, Noah may return to form and be the force the Bulls and their fans are used to seeing.

Gibson had surgery and may not be available to open the season. At this point, what is a Bulls team that is NOT dealing with an injury or two?

The Cavaliers are looking to start well after making it to the NBA Finals last season. Even with the success the team had, coach David Blatt took a beating in his first season. He had his dignity attacked when critics said James was the one calling the plays. He needs his team to get out of the gate quickly.

The Bulls need this game for their confidence. No, it is not a do-or-die game, but the Bulls lost their first game against the Cavaliers last season, and they had a difficult time with them the rest of the season. Hoiberg wants to get off to a good start, so both teams will go hard.

Just like last season’s game on Halloween, there will be a playoff atmosphere in the game, even though it is the first game of the season.

Next: December 25 -- Christmas vs. Oklahoma City Thunder