--Several Bulls spoke during training camp about a strong team chemistry. The players have gotten along well, bonded during the trip to London and welcomed rookies James Johnson and Taj Gibson into the mix. "I think we really have the makings of having that special type of chemistry," veteran guard Lindsey Hunter said. "It's like family and that's how you want it." Of course, there is no telling whether getting along in the locker room will translate to more victories this season. With no dominant scorer, the Bulls need to play an unselfish, team-oriented style.
"We've got a good group of guys and we get along pretty well," guard Kirk Hinrich said "Everybody's kind of trying to use that as a reason why we're going to have a much better year this year. But the bottom line is we have to take that onto the court. We don't have an All-Star or anything like that. We have to do it as a group and it takes a specific type of effort."
--Preseason got off to a sluggish start when a series of injuries and other issues forced the Bulls to play with a makeshift lineup in five of the first six contests. Guard Derrick Rose (sore right ankle) and forward Tyrus Thomas (bruised hip) were injured in the exhibition opener at Indiana and missed the next four games. Center Brad Miller was sidelined by the flu twice. Guard John Salmons, meanwhile, skipped the team's trip to London because his wife was due to give birth. The Bulls did use their projected starting lineup against Indiana on Oct. 2, but top reserves Kirk Hinrich, Jannero Pargo and Miller all sat out.
"We have such mixed lineups out there, it makes it difficult to see exactly where you're at," coach Vinny Del Negro said. "(We need to) try to get some type of rhythm, some type of flow and continuity -- especially in practice. Because if we do it in practice well, eventually it picks up in the games."
MAIN REASON BULLS CAN WIN: For the first time since the championship era ended, the Bulls have real star potential in second-year point guard Derrick Rose. Surrounding him is a nice mix of size, experience and athleticism.
MAIN REASON BULLS CAN LOSE: Without Ben Gordon, the team's top scorer the last four seasons, the Bulls need big years from Luol Deng, John Salmons and Kirk Hinrich. Deng is coming off two straight disappointing, injury-marred seasons, while Salmons never averaged more than 12 points until last year.
QUOTE TO NOTE: "I feel like we have a lot of weapons. I think our goal should be to finish no lower than fourth in the East." -- G John Salmons.
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