Chicago Bulls: Finally, an Inside Prescence

For months, if not at least a year, the Chicago Bulls have lacked an inside presence in their starting lineup. Luol Deng has been invaluable to Chicago's front court, but they were still missing a key element to help them on the inside.

Joakim Noah, a second-year player in the starting lineup, has failed to live up to expectations. Tyrus Thomas, while improving, is still learning the game as well. The Bulls had a chance to remedy their front court problem in the 2008 NBA Draft, but understandably chose point guard Derrick Rose over forward Michael Beasley.

Though the pick had its benefits, the Bulls failed to get what they needed: An inside force. Then, seven months and 24 wins later, the Bulls did something right. They received an inside presence. They received Brad Miller.

Brad Miller is the inside presence the Bulls need. He's a consistent center with all the tools Chicago desperately required to win. Miller can score on the inside, and could possibly become a leading scorer for the team. For a center, he's a solid passer with good ball-handling skills.

Brad Miller is also averaging 8.0 rpg, and the Bulls could desperately use a big man who can grab boards. Miller's turnover ratio is minimal, emphasizing on his ball-handling skills. The Bulls needed Brad Miller. They just didn't know it.

The Bulls should be able to rise up in the NBA ranks now. The aforementioned Noah and Thomas were unable to instantly lead the Bulls to much needed success. Both still have tremendous potential, and Tyrus Thomas has signs of being a great forward, but Brad Miller is a veteran.

He'll impact Chicago the moment he steps on the court as their new starting center. For the first time in awhile, the Bulls will have a notable starting center. And for the first time in awhile, the Bulls will have a strong inside presence.