The Chicago Bulls are ready to start anew. They get their first chance to begin their rebuilding stage on Wednesday against the Phoenix Suns in their first preseason game at the United Center.
In anticipation, the team put out a hype video encouraging fans to bring their friends.
With the expectations on Caleb Wilson, the offseason trades, and a new management structure, the Bulls are looking to chart a new course. That said, their rebuild will be gradual, and with that will come inevitable shortcomings.
New head coach Tiago Splitter recognizes that reality as he explains his preseason plans and expectations for the season, per Gavin Dorsey of Bulls Roundtable. In essence, he not only anticipates errors, but wants his players to embrace them and find their own way to muscle through.
“I know they're going to make mistakes,” Splitter said. “That's part of it. But I at least want to see that step forward on aggressiveness. That's the main thing.”
The Bulls' newly formed roster features a who's who of young emerging talent and veteran quality. That young talent includes Wilson and Matas Buzelis. The veteran-laden group also includes Norman Powell, Nic Claxton, and Josh Giddey.
However, Claxton will miss weeks due to a hamstring injury. This new mix of guys brings a culture change. As a result, the team will need to focus heavily on getting to know one another—and feeding off each other's strengths.
The Bulls will begin the regular season on October 21 against the Toronto Raptors on the road. Then, they'll host the Washington Wizards for their first regular-season home game on October 24.