For a team that is missing its biggest star, the Chicago Bulls have certainly held their own this season. They have a record of 20-15 overall and are sixth in the Eastern Conference, but their 10-10 record at home leaves plenty of room for improvement. After a 97-81 loss to the Phoenix Suns at the United Center on Saturday, Joakim Noah tried to put his finger on what the problem could be.
“We’re 10-10 at home. That’s not very good, that’s very average,” Noah said according to ESPNChicago.com. “I think it’s OK to be wrapped up in big wins. I think you’re supposed to be happy after you win, but I think that when it’s the big game we come ready to play. I think we have to make a conscious effort as players and as coaches — everybody. I feel like we complain way too much. When things aren’t going our way we have to find a way to stick together more.”
In other words, it’s great to beat elite teams like the New York Knicks on the road, but losing to the 13-26 Suns on your own court can’t happen.
“It’s just too negative,” Noah continued. “We have to support one another when things aren’t going well because right now it’s just, when things aren’t going our way, it’s the end of the world. You have to move on to the next play and unite together because I don’t feel like we’re doing that right now.”
Derrick Rose could return as early as the All-Star break, which would give the Bulls a major boost both physically and emotionally. It’s incredibly tough to win basketball games without your best player and proven leader, which is why beating lousy teams at home is even more crucial for Chicago while Rose remains out. As for the negativity, I think any team would have a tough time remaining positive if their MVP was out for this long. For the Bulls, it’s all about continuing to weather the storm.
H/T Pro Basketball Talk
Photo credit: Mike DiNovo-US PRESSWIRE
