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Bobby Portis reiterates guarantee Bulls reach the playoffs

When the starting line-ups are introduced opening night in Philadelphia, it's a pretty safe bet that barring injury, Robin Lopez will be the starting center for the visiting Bulls.

Now in his 11th NBA season, Lopez has earned the right to remain the starter, coming off one of his most productive offensive seasons. Lopez averaged a career-high 11.8 points per game, shooting 53% from the field and just under 76% from the FT line. In addition, Lopez' role as a mentor on one of the league's youngest teams holds considerable value for the franchise.

Still, the time is coming, and maybe not all that far away, when Lopez will have to move to the bench in favor of rookie Wendell Carter Jr.