ANALYZING STARTERS: G Derrick Rose was an easy winner in NBA Rookie of the Year voting and should be capable of greater accomplishments this season. During the summer, Rose worked on his leadership skills and outside shot. He also figures to get to the foul line more often in his second season. G John Salmons was brilliant when he first arrived in a trade from Sacramento last Feb. 18. During the month of March, he averaged 21 points and shot 50 percent from the field. The question is whether Salmons, a late-bloomer in the NBA, can continue at that pace.
F Luol Deng missed the final 29 games of last season with a stress fracture in his right tibia. He had no problems with the injury during training camp, but can he return to the form that led the Bulls to give him a $71-million contract in 2008? His numbers dropped the past two seasons.
F Tyrus Thomas is heading into a make-or-break season when it comes to his future with the Bulls. Now in his fourth year, the team wants to see Thomas' production match up more evenly with his impressive athletic talents.
C Joakim Noah finished last season strong, averaging 13.1 rebounds during the first-round playoff series against Boston. His sideways-spinning shot is still ugly, but he's gotten stronger and steadier during two NBA seasons.
ANALYZING KEY RESERVES:
G Kirk Hinrich is still the team's best perimeter defender and will back up both guard spots.
G Jannero Pargo was brought back after three years away from the Bulls to add another outside shooter in the absence of Ben Gordon.
F James Johnson, the No. 16 draft pick, possesses an interesting set of unpolished perimeter skills, but also has the size and athleticism to play power forward.
F Taj Gibson was the surprise of preseason. The No. 26 draft pick was a solid defender and knocked down most every mid-range jumper he attempted.
C Brad Miller gives the Bulls a steady presence inside and is also a good mentor for Joakim Noah.
MEDICAL WATCH:
C Aaron Gray (stress fracture, left fibula) was injured early in training camp and will be sidelined at least until early December.
C Jerome James (torn Achilles' tendon) played just four games the past two years with New York, but is determined to return to health and help the Bulls this season. At the start of training camp, he estimated it will take a month or two until he can start practicing.
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