Bulls Exit After Another Play-In Loss: What’s Next?
The Chicago Bulls wrapped up their season with a disappointing 109-90 loss to the Miami Heat in the Play-In Tournament — their second consecutive year ending this way. Despite securing 40 wins and earning the ninth seed, the Bulls couldn’t capitalize on a home-court opportunity. As a result, serious questions are now being asked about the team’s direction, roster, and leadership. (mavericks vs kings)
Following this defeat, uncertainty looms around head coach Doug Christie and general manager Monte McNair. Will the Bulls stick with their core — Zach LaVine, Domantas Sabonis, and DeMar DeRozan — and hope for better results next season? Or is it time for a more significant reset?
A One-Sided Defeat in Miami
The Heat dominated from the start, thanks largely to a near-perfect first half by Tyler Herro, who scored 23 of his game-high 38 points before halftime. Miami consistently found open shots and stifled Chicago’s offense, forcing 11 first-half turnovers and preventing the Bulls from ever finding a rhythm or favorable matchup.
Even when Chicago started to build momentum, Miami’s defense responded with timely blocks and steals to shut it down.
https://www.nba.com/watch/video/derozan-da-a-vitoria-aos-kings?plsrc=nba&game-highlights=0022400762
Heat’s Best Timing Yet
This was one of Miami’s most complete games of the season — though it won’t show up in official stats. In a must-win scenario, they delivered with strong performances from Herro, Andrew Wiggins (20 points), and Bam Adebayo (15 points, nine rebounds, three assists).
The Heat shot well from beyond the arc (13 made threes), moved the ball effectively (30 assists), and executed defensively. Although Josh Giddey led the Bulls with 25 points, it wasn’t enough to overcome the deficit.
Miami now advances to face the Atlanta Hawks, with a shot at reaching the first round in Cleveland.
Another Early Exit for the Bulls
For the third year in a row, the Bulls’ season ended in the Play-In against Miami. Coming into this game, there was a renewed sense of hope — Chicago had won 15 of their last 20 regular-season games, and there was optimism around a young, reshaped roster.
However, that momentum evaporated quickly. The Bulls never led during the game and fell behind by as much as 25 points. Herro’s 13-for-19 shooting performance proved too much to overcome.
Despite the loss, there are some positives for Chicago moving forward. The development of young talent could shape the team’s future. Josh Giddey, acquired in last summer’s trade involving Alex Caruso, led the team and is expected to receive a contract extension this offseason. Meanwhile, 25-year-old Coby White — who was Chicago’s leading scorer this season — struggled in this matchup, shooting just 5-for-20.
The Bulls finished the regular season 39-43 — matching their record from the previous year. With another postseason disappointment behind them, the front office faces a pivotal offseason filled with difficult decisions.
Data and reports By Anthony Slater, Jared Weiss, James Jackson & Darnell Mayberry, NBA Writers