Overfocusing? Have all of KC's preseason articles focused on McDermott? McDermott is a question mark for this team. If he can be a genuine contributor, that would be very big. His development (or lack of same) is a legitimate topic. I can't fault KC for this one.
You guys see the Minnesota game? McDermott looked unstoppable for much of it. He's been killing it this preseason. I'm firmly a believer again.
I think this preseason is as interesting as any other I can remember. To me, it looks like the Bulls have set up a new championship window. The team is no longer an ungainly mash up of players who are either too old or too young and kind of a mismatch for its coach. I feel like this team is now about Bobby Portis, Niko Mirotic, Doug McDermott and Jimmy Butler. Instead of clinging to a championship window that has closed, they're probably two years away from it really fully opening. That's three players who are perfect for Fred Hoiberg's coaching style, and one in Butler who is good enough that he can play for anybody.
I am shocked at how good Bobby Portis has been. It remains to be seen if he can still be effective after teams have scouted him, but his motor, instincts and touch look legit. I wonder if there's a bit of a new guard/old guard thing in the locker room. Gasol, Rose, and maybe Noah/Taj seem like awkward fits for Hoiball, and I wouldn't be surprised if their role on the team is less emphasized compared to the Thibs years. Might be hard to devise a scheme that's best for both groups.
