Chicago Bulls: The good, bad and ugly from opening loss to Sixers
By Ryan Heckman
The Ugly: No defense
Not only did the Bulls’ fiery start to the game not last, offensively, but they paired a lack of scoring with some atrocious defense. Honestly, they were never too stout defensively in this one. Heck, they scored 41 points in the opening quarter but only led by three heading into the second.
Scoring 41 points in a quarter doesn’t do much good if you also give up a whopping 38 yourselves.
The Bulls allowed the Sixers to drop 128 points in this one, including two near-40-point quarters (Philly scored 37 in the third). While Chicago hit 11 three-pointers, Philadelphia one-upped them as they sunk 12 of their own.
One of the most startling stats from this game: The Bulls saw eight Sixers players score in double figures. Half of those players shot above 50 percent from the floor, as well.
To be fair, the Bulls were down a few key guys to start their season and are a team who will take some time to learn to play together. The Sixers feature most of the same guys they had last season, which took them on a playoff run.
Next. Bulls: Lots to love about new starting lineup. dark
Chicago will need an adjustment period, especially defensively, when they return Dunn, Valentine and Markkanen. At least, for now, the effort has to be heightened quite a bit on that end. The showing on Thursday night was not a positive one — it was ugly.