As the 2023-24 NBA season tips off, the Chicago Bulls are betting on continuity and experience to lead them to success. Will this gamble pay off? Let’s run through the Bulls playoff chances and season-long props to assess their chances.
Bulls Playoff Chances
Heading into the 2023-24 season, the Bulls have a 38% chance to make the playoffs according to the odds at DraftKings Sportsbook.
- Odds to make playoffs: +160
- Percent to make playoffs: 38%
Bulls Season-Long Props & Futures
- NBA Champion: +20000
- Conference Winner: +7500
- Division Winner: +4000
- Regular season wins: 37.5
Review of the Bulls Performance in the 2022-23
The 2022-23 season was a rollercoaster ride for the Chicago Bulls. Despite the individual prowess of Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, and Nikola Vucevic, the Bulls finished the season with a 40-42 record.
Injuries were a significant factor in the Bulls’ performance last season, disrupting the team’s rhythm and affecting their performance on the court.
Offseason Changes and Their Impact
The Chicago Bulls’ offseason was marked by a commitment to continuity. The team’s front office decided to keep the core of DeMar DeRozan, Zach LaVine, and Nikola Vucevic intact, while also signing free agents Jevon Carter and Torrey Craig.
However, the team was dealt a significant blow when it was announced that Lonzo Ball would be ruled out for the entire 2023-24 season.
Betting Picks for the Chicago Bulls
Considering the team’s strong defensive performance last season, a bet on the Bulls’ defense could be a smart move. The addition of Jevon Carter and Torrey Craig, both known for their defensive prowess, could further bolster the team’s defensive performance. Perhaps they will become a solid “under” team, or at least taking their opponents under the team total.
Secondly, the individual performances of Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, and Nikola Vucevic cannot be overlooked. All three players had impressive individual performances last season, and if they can find a way to mesh more effectively on the court, they could potentially lead the Bulls to a successful season. Therefore, betting on Zach LaVine to have another standout season could be a profitable move. His scoring ability and consistency make him a safe bet for top scorer on the Bulls.
In terms of win totals, the Bulls are projected to win around 40 games this season. Given the strength and depth of the Eastern Conference, this could be a realistic target for the team. Therefore, a bet on the Bulls to win over 40 games could offer good value.
The Bottom Line
The Chicago Bulls face a challenging but potentially rewarding 2023-24 NBA season. The decision to maintain the core of the team, despite last season’s disappointments, is a bold move that could pay off if the team can find a way to mesh more effectively on the court. However, the absence of Lonzo Ball and the strength of the Eastern Conference present significant challenges. The Bulls will need to overcome these obstacles and prove that they can compete at the highest level.
