This season, so far, Joakim Noah is averaging 15 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game. With Deng and Boozer’s inconsistencies, Joakim has stepped up night after night to lead the Chicago Bulls to victory. Sometimes the Bulls are a bit lackadaisical and don’t have that non-stop energy for the whole 48 minutes of regulation. But, Noah has that. Everyone can agree that Noah is definitely a passionate player a la Kevin Garnett, his one-time idol. Sometimes his passion for the game can lead to frustration when the game isn’t particularly going the Bulls way. But, nonetheless, fans appreciate players like Joakim Noah because they can at least see the effort they have trying to win.

Last night, Joakim finished with 17 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 blocks against the Minnesota Timberwolves in a 87-80 victory. Luol Deng and Rip Hamilton were the other two starters in double figures. Luol had 16 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists. While Hamilton managed to get 12 points and 4 assists in 24 minutes of playing time. Overall, the Bulls shot 42.5% from the field and were 46.2% from the 3-point line due to shooter, Marco Belinelli. Belinelli was 3-5 from the outside and showed signs that he was finally feeling a little more comfortable shooting. Carlos Boozer was absent on offense (and as usual on defense) throughout the entire game. He was 0-5 from the field, but did manage to snatch up 9 rebounds in the 27 minutes that he was on the floor. So far, Boozer is just averaging 10.7 points per game. The Bulls at least need Boozer to be a 20 and 10 player on a nightly basis. There’s no excuse for his inconsistent activity on the floor. Luol Deng’s inconsistent behavior may be due to his ailing wrist that he refused to have surgery on during the summer. Some staff and fans wished that he would have had the surgery, but he assured everyone that he was fine. Kirk Hinrich is not fine after suffering a right hip strain and didn’t return to the game. No news on whether he’ll be available for Monday night’s game vs the Boston Celtics.

Nate Robinson had 18 points and 5 of the Bulls 14 turnovers. Nate’s ball-handling was cringeworthy at times and seemed to frustrate the 5’9″ guard. He had his positive moments shooting 8-14 from the field. But, he’ll have to step up his game especially if Kirk Hinrich will miss a few games due to injury.

Boston Celtics vs Chicago Bulls on Monday 8pm ET/7pm