NBA power rankings week 13: Halfway mark, OKC Thunder hold steady

Chicago Bulls:

Offense: (104.7) 27th
Defense: (106.5) 8th
Net: (minus -1.8) 18th

Games Week 13 (2-2): Won vs. Wizards: 115-106, Cavaliers: 118-116, Lost vs. Celtics:101-113, 76ers: 89-100
Games Week 14 (4 games): Mon at Bucks | Weds vs. Wolves | Fri vs Kings | Sat at Cavaliers

The Bulls frontcourt took a beating in week 13 with the Wizards win being extremely costly. In that match, Daniel Gafford suffered a dislocated thumb that will keep him out of the lineup until mid-February.

Chandler Hutchison reinjured his shoulder although the team doesn’t expect him to miss much time stating he might play Monday.

The problem is Wendell Carter Jr. is out for up to six weeks due to a high ankle sprain (projections for a late February return). Otto Porter played nine-game prior to breaking his foot although the team is hopeful he’ll be back mid-February, likely after the All-Star break.

And, Lauri Markkanen while still playing is nursing an ankle injury which might be why his offensive numbers have dropped off slightly.

It’s unfortunate as the Bulls went on that stretch of 5-3 prior to hitting a tough scheduling segment and losing Carter Jr. They’re still in the East’s chase pack, but they can’t afford to have an extended losing streak.

More importantly, the offense needs a big shot in the arm. Zach LaVine is on fire but he can’t do it alone.