What’s going on with the Bulls?
The Bulls’ six-game winning streak was snapped by a career-high scoring performance from the electric Ja Morant. Despite the loss, Chicago has a lot to be proud of. Injuries continue to hound the team, but they have endured. DeMar DeRozan is forcing his way into the MVP conversation, while Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic have provided ample firepower and support.
The Bulls’ Big Three has been special, but their defense has been the exact opposite. Without the injured Alex Caruso and Lonzo Ball patrolling the perimeter, teams are attacking at will against the Bulls. They allow the seventh-most points in the paint, a stat which Morant exploited over and over again. Their leaky defense will have to be adjusted to really warrant a discussion about being a top Eastern Conference contender.
What’s going on with the Heat?
In contrast to the Bulls, Miami has continued their season-long impressive performance on defense. They have the sixth-best defensive rating in the league, giving up the fewest points in the paint.
And that’s to be expected with Jimmy Butler, Kyle Lowry, and Bam Adebayo as the backbone of the team’s identity. Those three make life infinitely difficult for opponents, what with their length, defensive instincts, and ability to guard multiple positions.
There are concerns if the Heat have enough offense to score in tight situations. But with the defense they are displaying, it’s clear that they will always have a chance no matter who they are playing.
Bulls-Heat matchup
Miami has had Chicago’s number all season long, winning their first two matchups this season. Both teams have had injury problems, which makes it more impressive that both squads occupy the top two seeds in the East. The Heat are one game ahead of the Bulls, and a win here could be crucial for Chicago if they want homecourt advantage for an additional round in the Playoffs.
But that’s still a ways away. Right now, Chicago’s biggest concern is how many eggs they have laid whenever facing top teams. Chicago is 1-10 versus teams that have at least a .600 winning percentage. The Heat are also 20-7 this season at home.
Will Duncan Robinson (21.0 points per game versus Chicago ) dominate once again? Or can newcomer Tristan Thompson provide a lift and help the Bulls get a win against an Eastern Conference rival?
