The Chicago Bulls have been stuck in a cycle of mediocrity for over a decade. Since trading Jimmy Butler during the 2017 Draft, the Bulls have accumulated a dismal overall record of 269-363, ranking as the fifth worst in the NBA. Only the small-market teams of the Pistons, Wizards, Hornets, and Magic have fared worse. Despite their struggles, the Bulls have not significantly benefited from their poor performance, moving up in the draft lottery just once and failing to secure a top-three pick. Since the Butler trade, the Bulls have only won one playoff game and haven't progressed beyond the first round since 2015.
Under the ownership of Jerry and Michael Reinsdorf, the Bulls have consistently rejected the idea of bottoming out to search for elite talent in the draft. This reluctance stems from a fear of losing the revenue generated by their loyal fan base—one that regularly fills arenas—and a refusal to spend into the luxury tax when the team shows promise. As a result, there wasn't much optimism for the 2025-26 season, especially considering the Bulls had recorded 40, 39, and 39 wins in the previous three seasons. The only notable roster change was the trade of Lonzo Ball for Isaac Okoro.
Despite the skepticism surrounding the team, the Bulls have made a striking start to the 2025-26 season, boasting a 3-0 record. Their victories against teams perceived to be stronger—namely the Detroit Pistons, Orlando Magic, and Atlanta Hawks—have showcased a new identity for the team. This transformation comes after they moved on from DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine, transitioning from a slow-paced, mid-range-heavy playstyle to an ultra high-tempo approach. Last year, they recorded the shortest average time of possession in the NBA at just 13.2 seconds.
The Bulls' newfound emphasis on pace has laid the groundwork for a dynamic drive-and-kick game, boosting their three-point shooting rate into the top five while leading the league in catch-and-shoot attempts. Although their offensive efficiency was ranked 20th last season, the building blocks of a productive offense are clearly in place. The current roster has managed to maintain a high-tempo game even in the absence of key players such as Coby White (who is out with a calf strain) and Zach Collins (recovering from a broken wrist).
What stands out about the Bulls this season is their lack of star players. Only Coby White made it to ESPN’s top-100 players list, ranking at a modest 71st. While stars are typically essential for success in the NBA, the Bulls have adopted a unique approach that prioritizes team play and collective effort. No player ranks in the top-35 for usage rate, allowing for a more fluid offense. Consequently, Chicago has become the third-best team in the NBA for passes made, showcasing a style where the ball never stagnates.
Despite their offensive struggles, the Bulls have excelled defensively, currently tied for the league's best defense alongside the unbeaten Thunder. This defensive prowess, however, seems unsustainable, given their offensive rankings. With a third-highest turnover rate and average shooting talent, the Bulls will need to find a balance to maintain their success. New acquisitions like Tre Jones, who has demonstrated exceptional playmaking abilities, and young talents like Matas Buzelis and Ayo Dosunmu have provided hope for the future.
While the Bulls' early season success may appear fortunate, it is essential to recognize their potential to rise in the Eastern Conference. With the Celtics and Pacers facing injury challenges, the Bulls could capitalize on the opportunity to secure a playoff spot. Their current strategy emphasizes pace, space, and teamwork—qualities that could prove advantageous in a long season filled with back-to-back games.
As the Bulls continue their journey, the question remains: are they genuinely good? It's too early to draw definitive conclusions, but their current trajectory suggests they might be on the path to competence. With a disciplined approach and a focus on collective success, the Bulls are showing that they can be a fun and competitive team to watch this season.
