The grind begins now!
There’s about a month until training camp, which is typically the NBA’s off-season, when players do informal group workouts. Many of his top Chicago Bulls players mentioned extra practice last offseason when discussing their early-season success. And it looks like they want to do the same thing this fall.
According to NBC Sports Chicago’s KC Johnson, several roster members will be exercising together in Los Angeles this week.
According to Johnson, in addition to DeMar DeRozan and Zach Lavigne, who are already known for handling offseason business in the West, Alex Caruso, Patrick Williams, Ayo Dosunmu and Coby White. No one knows exactly what their workouts will entail, but I wouldn’t be surprised if some of DeRozan’s teammates wake up at 4 a.m. to hit the gym. Williams has already spent time Keeping up with DeRozan’s grueling schedule It may be time for fellow youngsters Dosunmu and White to get a taste of the action early this offseason.
Of course, the most notable name missing from Johnson’s first list is Nikola Vucevic. Considering Big Man battled new All-Star his teammates last season, it’s definitely reassuring to know that all three are spending more time in the gym. That being said, it’s perfectly understandable if he can’t attend. Not only is this a time spent with his wife and kids, but we know he spent this summer abroad as well (he may still be).
Lonzo Ball is another key figure to watch in images and videos leaked online.Also, West-based head coach Billy Donovan’s latest word on the starting point guard was surprisingly positiveBut whether that means he’s ready to actually work with his fellow teammates on the court is a big question mark.
For what it’s worth, Johnson’s own comments didn’t inspire much confidence.
The last thing I will say for now is that I think this is the first time Darren Terry has worked with most of the roster.
We know Johnson didn’t share his name above, but he’s been locked in a Chicago advocacy center since draft night. I don’t see why he wouldn’t join. And he basically said the same thing during that his introductory press conference: “If they invite me, I’ll be there,” Terry replied when asked about the possibility of working out with DeRozan in Los Angeles.
Anyway, we’re looking forward to hyping you up with behind-the-scenes footage from this week’s workouts! Get ready for 2022-23!
