NBA 2008-09 Preview: Chicago Bulls

Players Added: None

Players Drafted: Derrick Rose (No. 1) and Omer Asik (No. 36)

Players Lost: Chris Duhon, Shannon Brown and JamesOn Curry

2007-2008 Record: 33-49

2008-09 Predicted Record: 42-40

Predicted Eastern Conference Standing: 8th

Last season, the Central Division was probably the least entertaining division in the Eastern Conference. And it didn't help that the Chicago Bulls, who were expected to be contenders in the East last season, ended up being one of the most disappointing teams in the league.

The Bulls went from 49 wins in 2007 to a mediocre 33 win season in 2008, and just didn't buy into the coaching system.

Not only that, but Scott Skiles was fired as head coach during the regular season, and was replaced by his assistant Jim Boylan for the remainder of the season. But that didn't last long. He was fired following the Bulls' regular season.

Also, starting point guard Kirk Hinrich struggled mightily, taking a step back last season. And I think it is safe to say that his role as the Bulls' starting point guard won't be a certainty this upcoming season.

Chicago also made a big time three-team deal that brought Drew Gooden and Larry Hughes to Chicago. And the young guys Joakim Noah and Tyrus Thomas have a pretty good upside. So things do look better for Chicago heading into next season.

Next season, things will start with their prized draft pick Derrick Rose. Rose will make an immediate impact, and will more than likely have Hinrich riding at the start of every game. He is strong for his size and has great athleticism, which we saw plenty of during his tenure in Memphis.

He is ability to penetrate is also another strength, but sometimes drives out of control and tends to turn the ball over, too. And considering they haven't had a go-to slasher, Rose will play a vital role in the Bulls' offense next season.

As far as off season moves go, Chicago has managed to re-sign Luol Deng—but have yet to re-sign Ben Gordon: their leading scorer the last three seasons. Memphis is the only team that has enough room under the salary cap, so don't expect Gordon to sign with another team.

Gordon himself has said he has played his last game in a Bulls uniform, so the only solution would be a sign-and-trade deal. He's also talked about playing overseas, a trend that seems to be going around these days.

"I guess it's safe to say I've played my last game in a Bulls uniform. I'm pretty optimistic it'll happen. It's very likely."--Ben Gordon

But the Bulls already have a number of guards, so if they were to lose Gordon they would still be stacked with guys like Larry Hughes, Thabo Sefolosha and Kirk Hinrich.

Now back to Noah and Thomas. Noah could very well be the breakout player next season in the Windy City. If Noah's name comes up in the Most Improved Player conversation, don't be surprised. His ability to block shots and rebound will only get better, and will be a plus for the Bulls next season.

As for Thomas, he too is also a terrific shot blocker and defender—but can produce on a little more on offense than Noah. It won't be easy driving to the lane with these guys sitting underneath. Bottom line, rebounding shouldn't be an issue next season with these two guys along with Gooden.

One area Chicago need to improve on, though, is their team defense. They gave up 100 points per game to their opponents last season, and especially looked bad on the road.

Next up, the head coaching position. Chicago hired Vinny Del Negro as their new head coach in June, and will have his first crack at being a NBA head coach.

After working as an assistant in Phoenix for Mike D'Antoni the last couple of season, we may have a clue as what the Bulls' offense may look like this season.

But are all these pieces listed above enough for the Bulls to make a run to the playoffs after a one year absence? With a healthy Dwyane Wade now back in the Eastern Conference it's hard to tell, but this team has the talent to reach the postseason as an eigth seed at best.

Michael Whittenberg is one of two NBA Community Leaders for bleacherreport.com