3 bold predictions for Chicago Bulls' 2021-22 NBA season

#2 The Chicago Bulls book a playoff berth without having to go through the play-in tournament

The Bulls finished 11th in the East this past season.

Despite both Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic averaging upwards of 20 points per game last year, the Chicago Bulls never looked a playoff-bound team. Eventually, they finished 11th in the Eastern Conference with a dismal 31-41 win-loss record, and didn't even get a shot at the play-in tournament.

But they have proper reinforcements now. Even though the Brooklyn Nets are the cream of the East, their are seven other playoff spots up for grabs again. And if the Chicago Bulls play as great as they look on paper, they are expected to make it comfortably into the postseason.

The definition of consistency: Nikola Vucevic dropped his 8th 20-10 game as a Bull. He's been here one month. pic.twitter.com/iTpgwWBQLZ

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) April 27, 2021

If one takes into account the long-standing relationship between Vucevic and DeRozan that dates back to their USC days, it is apparent that this team will make up in chemistry what they lack in raw talent. So down the stretch, the Chicago Bulls entering the postseason as a respectable opponent would not be huge surprise.

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#3 The young guns complement the newest additions to the squad

Dosumnu was selected by the Bulls in the second round.

The newest Chicago Bull, Ayo Dosunmo is known for having led his alma mater (University of Illinois) to becoming the top seed in the NCAA March Madness Tournament. And while doing so, he posted 20.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, 5.3 assists and 1.1 steals per game, with respectable outside shooting percentages, showing off his well-rounded arsenal.

Add him to the latest offseason signings in Alex Caruso, DeMar DeRozan and Lonzo, and it becomes an exciting talent pool topped by Vucevic and LaVine.

Ayo has a chip on both shoulders.@ATT | @AyoDos_11 pic.twitter.com/Oy2ss6341R

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) August 19, 2021

Lonzo is a two-way point-guard with a chip on his shoulder, while the 'Carushow' is an elite “point of attack” defender able to space the floor with perimeter shooting. Moreover, the Chicago Bulls have exponentially improved their playmaking by landing DeMar DeRozan.

Little NBA highlight video of new Chicago Bulls guard Alex Caruso. His strengths include.-On ball perimeter defense-Screen navigation-Cutting to the basket-Catch and shoot 3’s-Forcing turnovers#BullsNation pic.twitter.com/xt6nWZuT2L

— Bulls Dynasty (Real Hooper) 🪣 (@MVPaw) August 3, 2021

All of the aforementioned names are capable of making impactful plays down the stretch. But if the newer signees can cover the trails of their younger teammates, it will turn out to be an exciting season for the Bulls.