Eastern Conference Preview: Chicago Bulls

Chicago Bulls

BIOLOGY — B-minus
Luol Deng and the departed Ben Gordon have been in the league for five seasons. The difference is, Gordon has only one season of fewer than 80 games while Deng has only one of more than 80.

CHEMISTRY — B-plus
Gordon's contract status and the team's struggle to adjust to coach Vinny Del Negro's ways made some waves last season. Now, though, after the team's playoff run, the guys are firmly in Del Negro's corner.

ECONOMICS — A-minus
Brad Miller's expiring $12 million smells like trade bait. Longer term, this team has the cash and panache to attract a top free agent next summer.

HISTORY — C-minus
The Bulls' future does seem bright. Then again, weren't they also the team of the future back when Tyson Chandler and Eddy Curry called United Center home? How did that work out again?

MATH — C
Derrick Rose needs to play some D: The Bulls allowed 7.8 more points per 100 possessions with him on the floor.

OVERALL GRADE: C-plus