Detailing The D
It's no secret that the Bulls defense isn't where they needed it to be so far this season, but it's also about one simple issue. As we've talked about all year, there are a lot of new faces on the floor and there is still learning in some key areas that goes on each day.
I think Johnny Kerr hit it right on the head when he mentioned that the Bulls defense is still learning how to play with Ben Wallace. Now Ben may not be the player he was four years ago when he was the lockdown NBA Defensive Player of the Year, but he is still very good and very capable on the defensive end. I agree with Johnny that when you have a strong player like Ben down on the blocks, it dictates what you can do with regarding to defending on the perimeter. The key with Ben is that he has such a good sense for coming over and helping out if an opponent gets penetration off the dribble. He can rotate over and make a play on the ball, but the Bulls are still trying to feel their way through those situations.
The team is also getting a feel for the way they rotate as a whole, once one defender goes to help. Early foul trouble on Kirk Hinrich also has an impact. Kirk is a tough defender on the perimeter and almost every night, he has to take on the opponent's most explosive perimeter player. Sometimes, Kirk will pick up a couple of fouls early and have to come out of the game and that hurts the Bulls defensively.
Finally, when you struggle offensively as the Bulls have at times with their flow and balance, it can affect your defense. When you are out of position at the offensive end, it can be harder to get back to the proper spot on defense.
The Bulls gave up over 100 points five times in seven games on their recent road trip. That's not like them and I think we'll see much better defense on the horizon.
Wayne