According to the report, the Bulls were one of the winning teams in December

After a poor and hellish 2023-24 season beginnings, the Chicago Bulls turned it around as December hit the calendar. From being 5-14 at one point back in November, the Bulls have suddenly flipped the switch in December. 

They are now standing with a record of 15-19 thanks to their 9-5 stretch throughout the previous month. What's even more shocking is that they've managed to pull this off even in the full absence of Zach LaVine, who remains in recovery from his foot injury.

A winning month that has to be seized

The Bulls’ December drew a considerable nod from Bleacher Report, but the acknowledgment notes that they should capitalize on it.

In the report, BR gave Chicago a “Winner” tag not only because of their impressive swing but also the elevation of the trade value that was made by their units.

“They can take advantage of this hint of momentum and move players like DeMar DeRozan, Andre Drummond, Alex Caruso (who may have the highest trade value right now) and Zach LaVine (whose value is probably down, since the improved play coincided with his absence).”

Weighing BR's regard

What BR suggested is undeniably reasonable. The Bulls have crashed to rock bottom and had trade rumblings around them. But as they managed to climb now through the help of their key trade assets like Deebo and A.C. 

This could be the perfect time to squeeze their value and finally commence a much-awaited rebuild. But interpreting the current poise that they have, it appears highly unlikely that the Bulls will execute this. 

Upon carving a great December run which gave them an ample life to compete, Chicago is now even determined to continue their contention plans. With LaVine set to be back soon, they still have plenty of days to work things out and fully assess their true direction this season and for years to come.

For now, the Bulls are inclined to approach the new year with such optimism that they'll ultimately live up to their desired season finish.