For the first time since the 2021-22 season, the Chicago Bulls are off to a 4-0 start. That season is also the last time that Chicago advanced past the play-in round of the NBA playoffs.
Wednesday’s notes
Win No. 4 came Wednesday against the Sacramento Kings by a final score of 126-113. The win was headlined by 27 points from Matas Buzelis and a near triple-double (20 points, 12 assists, eight rebounds) from Josh Giddey.
The 27 points from Buzelis were the third most of his short career and Giddey’s double-double was his first of the season.
What’s going right for the Bulls?
Chicago’s early season success can certainly be attributed to the all-around team success so far. Prior to Wednesday’s game against the Kings, Chicago had six players averaging double figures on the season.
Future All-Star Nikola Vucevic?
Of all players on Chicago’s roster, veteran center Nikola Vucevic has made the biggest impact this season. Despite a season low 13 points on Wednesday, Vucevic is averaging 18.2 points, 13.2 rebounds and five assists per game this season.
Both rebounds and assists are on pace for a career-high, and while it is early in the season, Vucevic’s 54.5% three-point shooting would be a career best for the 15-year veteran.
Upcoming schedule
The legitimacy of the Bulls as a true contender this season will be put the test over their next six games. That stretch contains back-to-back games against the New York Knicks followed by games against the Philadelphia 76ers, Milwaukee Bucks, Cleveland Cavaliers and the undefeated San Antonio Spurs.
Going .500 or better over that grueling stretch could shine a positive light on what Chicago fans hope to be an promising season.