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Group II: The Tasty Hors D'oeuvres
Scrumptious in small doses, these clubs are hoping to steal your attention from the centerpiece, and at times it seems they might succeed. But each lacks a key ingredient to keep it on our plate 'til June.
Chicago: Postseason darlings after taking Boston to seven thrilling games in the first round, Chicago lost a big chunk of its offensive firepower when Ben Gordon bolted for Detroit. But with the trio of Kirk Hinrich, Luol Deng and John Salmons likely to be healthier than they were last season, Gordon might not be missed.
The other big factor in Chicago's favor is the likely improvement of young players like Derrick Rose, Joakim Noah and Tyrus Thomas. That's not a "nice to have," though; it's imperative. The kids have to get better, because the Bulls didn't sign any players as they gear up for a free-agent run next summer. In fact, it's possible they'll trade Thomas or Hinrich to have more cap space left over.
I really expect Rose and Noah to be better then last season. And I have hope that Thomas can be better too.
Sometimes the Bulls will miss Gordon, but I expect Rose to be the Bulls go-to-guy next season.
Go Bulls!
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