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Jamal Collier
CHICAGO — The Bulls stand alone atop the Eastern Conference standings as the sole undefeated team, boasting a 5-0 record for the first time since the 1996-97 season thanks to a 135-125 triumph against the New York Knicks on Friday night.
This marks only the third occasion in franchise history that the Bulls have initiated a season with such momentum, but not since the era of Michael Jordan have the Chicago found themselves unblemished at this juncture of a season. Despite the jubilation following Friday’s win, the Bulls engaged in a postgame discussion within the locker room, acknowledging the early stage of the campaign.
“We possess a positive outlook regarding our current standing as a team, but the road ahead is extensive,” Bulls guard Josh Giddey stated. “Each night presents different individuals contributing significantly and elevating their performance. We boast a substantial number of players — six, seven individuals averaging double-digit scoring. This serves as an indication of our team’s depth and the collective impact we’re achieving.”
Giddey spearheaded the effort with a career-best 32 points, complemented by 10 rebounds and nine assists, marking his highest-scoring performance since joining the Bulls the prior season. He amassed 21 points in the first half, enabling the Bulls to establish a 72-53 advantage, and Giddey converted four 3-pointers, equaling his previous best for a half.
Throughout the initial five games, Giddey has been averaging 22 points, 8 assists, and 8.8 rebounds while maintaining a 48% shooting accuracy (45% from 3-point range).
“This is a situation where I am desired,” Giddey remarked. “I greatly appreciate the confidence bestowed upon me by my teammates and coaches, entrusting me to execute plays on the court. This is essentially what every player requires. When you garner support from those around you, it propels you in a favorable direction. Therefore, I am feeling optimistic, and we, as a team, are feeling optimistic.”
Alongside Giddey, the Bulls showcased six players who achieved double-figure scoring. Their offensive strategy has flourished through rapid transitions and ball movement, culminating in 31 assists on 45 field goals on Friday.
“We all share a strong bond and derive joy from playing alongside each other,” Giddey said. “When you cherish the individuals you collaborate with daily, it enhances the enjoyment and satisfaction of the experience.”
Four of Chicago’s victories this season have been secured against projected playoff contenders within the East, including New York, Orlando, Atlanta, and Detroit. The Bulls’ schedule remains demanding: Their next contest on Sunday is also against the Knicks at Madison Square Garden, followed by a home game Tuesday night against the Sixers, who experienced their first defeat of the season on Friday.
“The conviction they possess, which I believe is profoundly significant, is remarkably potent when belief is present,” expressed Bulls coach Billy Donovan, who celebrated his 200th victory as the team’s coach on Friday. “There exists a strong connection among them. They cultivate positive relationships. They communicate effectively. I perceive an abundance of positive attributes that contribute to their winning mentality.
“However, it remains premature. It is merely five games, and while I am pleased with our start, it constitutes only a small fraction of the season. We have considerable progress to make, and we must not lose sight of that.”
