Chicago Bulls face critical month as playoff hopes hang in balance

The Chicago Bulls faced the Milwaukee Bucks without key players Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, who were sidelined due to injuries. Despite this, the Bulls struggled, missing their own players, including Josh Giddey and Lonzo Ball. The Bulls are currently below .500 and must decide whether to pursue a playoff spot or consider trading star Zach LaVine before the February deadline. LaVine's performance is crucial, as he has returned to form after surgery. The Bucks, recovering from a poor start, have improved significantly, winning 13 of their last 17 games. This turnaround puts pressure on the Bulls, who risk entering a rebuild if they do not improve soon.