The Philadelphia 76ers are set to take on the Chicago Bulls in a highly anticipated matchup that promises to be an intense test for both teams. The Bulls, who have defied expectations by playing some of the most enjoyable basketball in the league so far this season, will look to keep their winning streak alive as they host the team with the second-best record in the Eastern Conference.
Josh Giddey, the young Australian point guard who signed a four-year, $100 million contract with the Bulls last summer, is being touted as an early candidate for first-time All-Star. However, it's not necessarily about Giddey himself, but rather the team's depth and system that has been clicking all season.
The Bulls have six players on their roster averaging double-digit points, and Patrick Williams is just one spot behind in seventh place with 9.2 per game. Their bench is considered one of the best in the league, and they're getting career performances from key starters like Coby White, who has yet to play due to an injury.
The Bulls' system, under the guidance of Steve Kerr, is built around a fast-paced, aggressive style that requires players to push the pace constantly. This energy is infectious, and teams often find themselves wearing down on defense as they try to keep up with the Bulls' relentless attack. With Giddey at the helm, the Bulls are throwing hit-ahead passes, driving-and-kicking plays, and generally making smart decisions on offense.
While the Sixers have struggled in some areas of their game, there is hope that the return of Paul George and Jared McCain could help shore up some of those weaknesses. With the Eastern Conference looking more competitive than usual, it's not out of the question that the Bulls could snag a top-six seed and avoid the Play-In Tournament.
Of course, the real test for the Bulls will come when Coby White returns from injury and Zach Collins gets back to health after suffering a broken wrist. When those two get on the court, the Bulls' depth and versatility should become even more formidable. For now, though, it's all about the system and how well Giddey fits into it.
Josh Giddey, the young Australian point guard who signed a four-year, $100 million contract with the Bulls last summer, is being touted as an early candidate for first-time All-Star. However, it's not necessarily about Giddey himself, but rather the team's depth and system that has been clicking all season.
The Bulls have six players on their roster averaging double-digit points, and Patrick Williams is just one spot behind in seventh place with 9.2 per game. Their bench is considered one of the best in the league, and they're getting career performances from key starters like Coby White, who has yet to play due to an injury.
The Bulls' system, under the guidance of Steve Kerr, is built around a fast-paced, aggressive style that requires players to push the pace constantly. This energy is infectious, and teams often find themselves wearing down on defense as they try to keep up with the Bulls' relentless attack. With Giddey at the helm, the Bulls are throwing hit-ahead passes, driving-and-kicking plays, and generally making smart decisions on offense.
While the Sixers have struggled in some areas of their game, there is hope that the return of Paul George and Jared McCain could help shore up some of those weaknesses. With the Eastern Conference looking more competitive than usual, it's not out of the question that the Bulls could snag a top-six seed and avoid the Play-In Tournament.
Of course, the real test for the Bulls will come when Coby White returns from injury and Zach Collins gets back to health after suffering a broken wrist. When those two get on the court, the Bulls' depth and versatility should become even more formidable. For now, though, it's all about the system and how well Giddey fits into it.