Chicago Bulls hold team meeting after third straight loss

“It’s a do or die week for us,” veteran guard Mike Dunleavy said.

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The Chicago Bulls held a team meeting on Sunday after losing their third consecutive game on Saturday night to the Orlando Magic, coach Fred Hoiberg told the Chicago Sun Times.

Hoiberg did not disclose what was discussed at the meeting, but said it was productive as the team attempts to make a final push for a playoff spot.

“We did get together and talk,” Hoisberg said. “That was a big part of what (Sunday) was about, getting in there and talking about some things and hopefully airing some things out....I think (guys were honest). And that’s what it has to be when you go through those things. You have to have honest communication where things aren’t taken personal. I thought it was productive from that standpoint.”

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With a 36–36 record, the Bulls stand two games behind the Detroit Pistons, who currently occupy the eighth playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. With just 10 games left to play, the players acknowledged their performance over the final stretch of the season will be critical if they want to avoid missing the playoffs for the first time since 2008.

“It’s a do or die week for us,” veteran guard Mike Dunleavy said.

The Bulls next play the Atlanta Hawks on Monday at home.

- Erin Flynn