Bulls Surge to 5-0 Start, Undefeated for First Time Since ’96

UPDATE: The Chicago Bulls have made a stunning start to the season, remaining undefeated at 5-0 after a thrilling 135-125 victory over the New York Knicks on October 27, 2023. This marks the Bulls’ first undefeated start since the 1996-97 season, a period famously dominated by Michael Jordan.

The Bulls are the lone undefeated team left in the Eastern Conference, and their impressive performance has fans buzzing. Following Friday night’s win, Bulls guard Josh Giddey expressed optimism but reminded everyone that the season is still young. “We feel good as a group of where we’re at right now, but there’s a long way to go,” Giddey said in the locker room.

Giddey was pivotal in the victory, scoring a career-high 32 points, along with 10 rebounds and 9 assists. He set the stage early with 21 points in the first half, helping the Bulls build a commanding 72-53 lead. His performance included four 3-pointers, matching his career-best for a single half.

Over the first five games, Giddey is averaging an impressive 22 points, 8 assists, and 8.8 rebounds while shooting 48% overall and 45% from beyond the arc. “It’s a place where I’m wanted,” he commented about his role on the team. “When you have the belief from everybody around you, it propels you in the right direction.”

The Bulls showcased their depth with six players finishing in double figures, reflecting their potent offensive strategy. The team has thrived on fast-paced gameplay and efficient ball movement, racking up 31 assists on 45 field goals against the Knicks. “We all love each other, we all love playing with each other,” Giddey emphasized, highlighting the team’s strong chemistry.

Four of Chicago’s victories have come against projected playoff teams, including the Knicks, Orlando Magic, Atlanta Hawks, and Detroit Pistons. Looking ahead, the Bulls will face the Knicks again on Sunday at Madison Square Garden before returning home to challenge the Philadelphia 76ers, who suffered their first loss this season on Friday.

Bulls head coach Billy Donovan celebrated his 200th victory with the team on Friday. He noted the importance of belief and connection among the players, stating, “When there’s belief, it’s really, really powerful.” However, he also cautioned that it is still early in the season. “It’s five games, and we can’t lose sight of the long journey ahead,” Donovan remarked.

As the Bulls continue to impress, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this exciting season unfolds. With a strong team dynamic and promising performances, Chicago’s basketball resurgence is generating significant buzz throughout the league.