In 2022, the Chicago Bulls made a significant recovery and enjoyed their best season since 2015.
For a brief period of time, Zach LaVine was one of the league’s top scorers, DeMar DeRozan was a strong contender for Most Valuable Player, and Lonzo Ball was an unstoppable force on both sides of the court. However, the team’s progress was hampered by injury issues, and they were eliminated from the NBA Playoffs in the first round.
However, as Bulls supporters, there were three very memorable events that we will never forget.
DeRozan’s heroics
Throughout the entire season, there were plenty of noteworthy events. Even so, DeMar DeRozan’s heroics in back-to-back victories over the Indiana Pacers and the Washington Wizards were among the most well-known. The Compton native brought in 2022 with yet another incredible game-winning shot the night after crushing the Pacers with a one-legged three-pointer.
https://youtu.be/b_hAwHZFb20
He faked out his initial defender, Corey Kispert, before making the shot over the outstretched arms of Bradley Beal, who moved over to assist, increasing the degree of difficulty.
Bulls’ first Playoff win since 2017
Many didn’t give the Bulls much of a chance against Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks, but they managed to steal Game Two with a score of 114-109 — their first playoff victory since 2017 — in dramatic fashion.
DeRozan was phenomenal, scoring a career Playoff high 41 points along with seven rebounds and four assists. Zach LaVine helped out with 20 points to edge the Bucks, who were led by Antetokounmpo’s 33 points, 18 boards, and nine dimes.
Lonzo Ball injures knee
Although most of the credit goes to DeRozan for his leadership and incredible shot-making ability, the Bulls’ season took a major wrong turn when Lonzo Ball went down with a knee injury in January. It was devastating for the team, as he had played arguably some of the best basketball of his career and had become an integral part of their playoff push.
The numbers support Ball’s importance; prior to his injury, the Bulls had a 22-13 record. However, since Ball went down, the Bulls went 19-21 the rest of the way in the 2021-2022 season and are at 16-20 this season while still waiting for his return.
Source: yardbarker.com
