Nov. 14--The Bulls improved to 6-3 with a 102-97 home victory over the Hornets. Here are three observations:
Joakim Noah underscored a more energetic effort
Noah returned from his one-game absence to left knee soreness with pop and pizazz. With everyone asking about the Bulls' identity, he also offered the best response afterward.
"The only way we're going to find our true identity is giving 100 percent effort," he said.
Yes, the Bulls are 6-3. But they have played lethargically for too many lengthy stretches thus far this season. Effort can overcome a lot in the NBA and the Bulls in recent history often have played with more than their opponent.
Friday marked a good start to getting back to basics.
Fred Hoiberg has hit more than missed with his rotation tinkering
On Friday, the first-year NBA coach called Kirk Hinrich's number and Hinrich, back from a five-game absence to a sore toe, delivered an active first-half stint. Hinrich hit his minutes limit, but it appears he has moved ahead of Aaron Brooks in the guard rotation for now.
The best part? If Hinrich falters, Hoiberg has proven he's not afraid to adjust and re-insert Brooks.
Beyond this, Hoiberg against the Hornets limited the minutes of Mirotic and McDermott in the second half, opting for more defense. The defensive strategy in general was to use more length and physical play to limit the Hornets' damage inside, where they crushed the Bulls in their 25-point victory in Charlotte.
Though the Hornets almost beat the Bulls from the perimeter, enjoying a 33-point edge in 3-pointers, Tony Snell provided critical defense late on the perimeter.
Jimmy Butler kept attacking
Butler tied his season-high with 14 free-throw attempts. That's twice in nine games Butler has attempted double-digit free throws. He's at his best when attacking the rim and not settling for jumpers.
"The thing I liked about Jimmy is he was in attack mode from start to finish," Butler said.
