Like real basketball, as well as basketball video games? Talk about the NBA, NCAA, and other professional and amateur basketball leagues here.
Fri May 27, 2011 2:12 pm
So, I guess it's time to eulogise the season.
I don't think anyone here would disagree that this year was the most fun to watch as a Bulls fan since the last championship season. Best record in the league, plenty of highlight plays, MVP, COY and All-NBA honours and an appearance in the Eastern Conference Finals. It didn't end so well and highlights a few areas that need improvement moving forward but easily their best campaign post-Jordan/Pippen/Jax and co. When they reached the Conference Finals I honestly felt they had as good a shot of winning it as anyone, unfortunately they just don't have it all together just yet.
Hats off to the players, coaching staff and front office. Forman and Paxson really proved me wrong, I was certainly down on them before this past offseason but they did a fine job putting the team together and still have ample opportunity to make it better. Rose still has room for improvement of course, but he's embraced the challenge of being the go to guy and while he didn't shoot so well in the postseason, he still had a great year and I feel good about the team building around him. Deng also proved me wrong, which was very pleasing to see. Before this season I felt he was overpaid, now I'd say he might be a bit underrated or at least overlooked at times.
Moving forward, there's no question they need to get better offensively. I thought the Rasual Butler signing ended up being a waste, I know he's not the answer to all their problems but given what he brings to the table I thought he'd get more of a run. They do need some more firepower on the wing to make teams pay when they crowd the lane and hit them with a bit of zone defense. They do have some shooters on the team, Korver had a poor series against the Heat but we know he can knock it down and Bogans played better as the year went on but more help is in order. If Kelenna Azubuike is healthy and available, he might be someone they can bring in to help out with some scoring at the two and three.
I have to believe the future is bright, though. They've got some good pieces and had a great season that just didn't end so well. It still feels good to be a Chicago Bulls fan these days.
Fri May 27, 2011 2:53 pm
Time to blow it up.
I can't seem to get the trade machine to work though. This trade works:
CHI GETS:
G- R. Hamilton
F- C. Villenueva
C- A. Bargnani
G- J. Calderon
Trade Exception
TOR GETS:
F- C. Boozer
F- L. Deng
G- D. Rose
DET GETS:
F- A. Johnson
F- E. Davis
C- O. Asik
G- D. DeRozan
G- R. Brewer
I think that's a pretty fair trade for everyone.
Fri May 27, 2011 2:58 pm
Doesn't seem fair for the Pistons or Raptors.
Fri May 27, 2011 3:05 pm
Fine, fine, the Pistons can take Rose along with a future first round pick and send Stuckey to Canada.
Fri May 27, 2011 4:02 pm
That missed free throw will probably haunt Rose for the whole summer...it reminds me of the NCAA championship game

EDIT: I wonder if we can get Courtney Lee for Bogans, cash and a few picks? unlikely but heres hoping
Fri May 27, 2011 11:12 pm
The Bulls changed their style in the last round. From what I saw during the season was that the Bulls won when they had to work to get back into the game.
Sat May 28, 2011 12:41 am
Pippen: Michael Jordan is the best scorer, LeBron James best ever to play the game“Michael Jordan is probably the greatest scorer to ever play in the game, but I may go as far to say LeBron James is probably the greatest player to ever play the game. Not only can he score at will, but he keeps everybody involved. You have to be on your Ps and Qs because everybody is a threat to score when he’s on the floor. Not only that, LeBron James will dominate the game on the offensive end and he’s able to do it on the defensive end as well. He can get in those passing lanes and dominate the game.”
While a couple of Heat/LeBron fans commenting on that article certainly agree with the sentiment, I would have to respectfully disagree with Pip on this one.
Sat May 28, 2011 12:47 am
No doubt, Andrew. Neither LeBron nor MJ are the greatest to play the game.
Valor wrote:I wonder if we can get Courtney Lee for Bogans, cash and a few picks? unlikely but heres hoping
Daryl Morey already fucked up by trading Battier for Thabust. If he ends up accepting that, I don't care what good trades he's done in the past, he would deserve to get fired.
Sat May 28, 2011 1:18 am
Guess Pip's been copping some flak on Twitter for his opinion.
Scottie Pippen wrote:For all of you that don't know , I played the game you keep watching and cheering.
Mon May 30, 2011 7:00 pm
Ugh. Well, I've made a token appearance to give my final thoughts on the season that was. As soon as I realised that the Bulls weren't going to completely annihilate the Pacers, my championship hopes began to dwindle. It feels even worse that it was Miami that knocked them out. Anyone else and I wouldnt have had to cry myself to sleep.
I'll try to evaluate the key figures in the Bulls' organisation on their performance this year.
G.M. - Paxson/Forman: A.
Their past offseason was absolutely remarkable. Their most underrated moves (bringing in Korver, Watson, Brewer and bringing over Asik) turned out to be arguably more pivotal than their marquee signing of Carlos Boozer. Their staffing moves were unquestionably the best in the league. You have to wonder now, if there was a better option than Booz for the money he got. David Lee springs to mind. Just as defensively skilled as Boozer, but more energetic, more durable and younger. His effort never leaves you wondering. That's the only move that keeps this from being an A+
Coach: Thibodeau A.
The best year by a rookie coach in a long, long time. He somehow managed to out-defense Gregg Popovich, just by demanding a level of intensity that was unparalleled anywhere in the league. His starting front-court never really had the opportunity to synchronise with injuries to the two bigs, but the team still landed the best record in the league. Most telling, was his willingness to bench Boozer for his lack of spirit on the defensive end. It was a hard decision, but it was the right one. Offensively, work still needs to be done. The pick-and-roll is great, but another weapon or two is needed to make this a good offence.
The actual players (in order of excellence)
Derrick Rose: A+.
He barely put a foot wrong throughout the season, coming up huge when it counted and improving just about every part of his game. His bewildering assurances that he could be MVP were shocking to all of us to say the least, especially when you consider how much humility he had always acquitted himself with. But he put his money where his mouth was and showed all of us what he was capable of. Hopefully, the playoff defeat will sting and he'll continue to work on his outside shot and his defense over the off-season.
Luol Deng: A.
Tough not to bump this up to an A+. Proved the naysayers (me included) wrong, with his stellar play on both ends of the court. He was probably the most consistent player on the team, night in and night out. Not getting a spot on the All-Defensive team is a travesty. Hell, he probably deserved an All-Star berth, but whatevs. I think that he, and the team, would be best served if he can be a little more aggressive.
Taj Gibson: A-
Not Noah? Not Boozer? No, dammit! Gibson continued on from his solid rookie campaign, by doing exactly what he did last year, but with more regularity. I think he realised his role a lot better, and didnt try to do too much on the offensive end. He was ready to give his all when asked and his defensive workrate and proficiency allowed Thibodeau to keep Boozer on the bench to close out games without risking exposure. Further work on his low post moves would give the Bulls another option going forward, which can only be helpful.
Kyle Korver: B.
Took some time to acclimate himself to the Bulls' system, really only hitting his stride after the midpoint of the year. Would have benefited from spending more time on the court with Derrick Rose as he would have found more open looks. Still, hit a couple of big game-winners, and had some momentary hot streaks, but lacked the consistency needed to increase his grade.
Ronnie Brewer: B.
I'm still not convinced that he should have been the starter. I loved his energy, his ability to get deflections and shut down lanes, but he still belonged with the second unit, as they would have been severely lacking in that regard. Anyway, he did what was asked and did it well. He was never spectacular and never had huge nights. Just got the job done. Which was fine.
Joakim Noah: B.
Missed 34 games and still lands a B. Was on All-Star pace to begin the season, and probably would have got there if it hadn't been for his stupid, stupid hand. He seemed slightly out of sorts when he returned from injury, and lost the big-game mindset. He's capable of 20-20 games, but he's also capable of committing silly fouls. All he really needs is an injury-free pre-season and regular season. Just to let him find some continuity at the offensive end.
Carlos Boozer: C+
He was looking good for a while there, but his late season slump coincided with Noah's return from injury, which is worryingly coincidental. Offensively, when he's playing well and is motivated, then he's just what the doctor ordered. But he just seemed to lose confidence in himself around March/April. When his offense isn't firing, then he's a major liability. His defensive efforts were just this side of woeful, and with the exception of a handful of games, he wasnt able to assert himself on the offensive glass. I don't really know what to suggest for areas of improvement. Too early to look at trade avenues, but something may need to be done.
Omer Asik: C+
I love this kid, and was very happy when the deadline passed and he wasn't moved. We saw enough to suggest that he can be a solid contributor next year whether he remains with the team or not. He's fun to watch, performs surprisingly well against big name opponents (Dwight Howard) and he provides depth at a position where the Bulls sorely need it.
C.J. Watson: C+
His opportunities were always going to be limited playing behind Derrick Rose, but he made the most of them. Never really posted big numbers, but has a pretty decent IQ and can find his teammates when required.
Kurt Thomas: C+
Ended up being much more important to the cause than was probably anticipated after Noah went down. Good solid big man. Awesome, crazy eyes and by all accounts, a good locker room presence.
Keith Bogans: C
Gets a pass grade because he did what was expected of him. No more, no less. He shouldn't be a starter on an elite NBA team, and probably wont be next year, but I dont think having Brewer or Korver as the starter is the right answer either. They need someone who is a full-time career starter who has a stronger offensive game than defensive game.
Brian Scalabrine: C
The world's greatest living human being, who possibly could have seen more court time with Boozer's late season slump. But yeah, it's just nice to have him there.
Next:
The Bulls have 2 late first rounders, which I think should be included in some sort of a trade for a better quality of starting swingman. J-Rich could work or Iggy, if the Sixers want to hand the reins over to Evan Turner earlier than expected.
Tue May 31, 2011 1:26 am
Good write-up.

I'd have to agree with pretty much all counts, I might grade Korver slightly lower because of his inconsistency but he was still a great pickup, he just didn't have it going in the Conference Finals when it really could have helped. It did seem that Noah's hand wasn't quite right when he returned, atimes he appeared to have trouble securing rebounds he'd normally snare with ease. Boozer's disappearance in the later stages of the Playoffs is troubling but hopefully his turf toe was a major factor there, I'd like to think he's capable of more solid performances when healthier.
Asik really won me over, I too am glad they held onto him. He's still got a long way to go but I like what I've seen of him and hope he continues to improve. Watson was frustrating to watch at times with his shoot-first mentality but when he's knocking them down, he's great to have coming off the bench. He's not a total black hole either, he will find teammates with good passes as well as put up shots. Not much else to say, you pretty much covered it.
With the talk that Hamilton might end up on the Bulls after a trade and buyout, I have to say I don't mind the idea. Like I said in the other thread I don't believe he's the best option or the only possible solution, but he wouldn't be making nearly the amount the Pistons are currently paying him and he's a solid scorer, particularly from midrange. He wouldn't be a bad pickup, though since you brought him up Jason Richardson would be even better as he's got three point range. Someone like that could boost their offensive game to where it needs to be so they don't get stagnant and find themselves unable to hold onto (or cut into) leads. As you said, hopefully Rose continues to work on his jumpshot as well, though with his work ethic I'd say he'll be putting in the hours on that.
Tue May 31, 2011 1:49 am
As far as two-guard is concerned, instead of having a revolving door of OK veterans for the next few years, I'd probably prefer a younger fringe player who can put 4 or 5 seasons together with the team, so they can develop as a unit. Mayo still springs to mind if that idiotic three-team deal doesn't go through, or even Landry Fields, who fell off the map a little bit in New York after their trade. He could be gettable. He's almost a 40% 3 pt shooter, rebounds the ball really well and will only be 23 on opening night.
Tue May 31, 2011 10:54 am
Long term that would be ideal, but it's easier said than done. I have to admit that on one hand, adding someone like Hamilton (if he's bought out) or J-Rich is slightly more appealing to me as it could feasibly done without having to give anyone up and weaken the rotation in another area. If the price was right however, getting someone like Mayo or Fields would be great. I don't know who I'd trade aside from Bogans though and with Mayo's contract alone they'd need to include two or three players to get the deal done, so bringing in a vet for a year or two might be the way to go for the moment.
Tue May 31, 2011 7:06 pm
Watching at the free agents some of the names were interesting.
Out of the FA class the names that seem to be the good choices for me
Jamal Crawford(great choice,probably the best, and unrestricted as well.Seems too expensive though)
J.R Smith(great scorer, dangerous in the locker room!)
Aaron Afflalo (another great option,restricted though.But with many abilities on offense)
T-Mac(I still believe he's finding part of his old self,and he has the potential of being a great danger if played well)
Michael Redd(a mid contract would be good for him,and hoping he stays injury free.He was the player who would score loads of points and that's what I hope he can revive in the Bulls...)
Roger Mason(Great shooter,though one of my last choices as he's not really better from Brewer)
J-Rich(not the dunking machine he was,but he has a great way to make his own shot and score,and that's what the Bulls need from their SG)
Nick Young(the fact that he's restricted makes him a hard choice,but he's probably one of the best in the list,as a matter of age,potential and current form)
There's Ray Allen as well,but he would probably stay in Boston using that Player Option he has....
Tue May 31, 2011 8:23 pm
George7 wrote:Watching at the free agents some of the names were interesting.
Out of the FA class the names that seem to be the good choices for me
Aaron Afflalo (another great option,restricted though.But with many abilities on offense)
J-Rich(not the dunking machine he was,but he has a great way to make his own shot and score,and that's what the Bulls need from their SG)
Please see above, I went ahead and took out all the not so good options for the Bulls that you listed. I really like Afflalo, liked him since his UCLA days, he was great for the Bruins. From what I know, he's no slouch defensively either, so he would fit in well with Bulls' culture & won't cry when Rose doesn't pass the ball. All that being said, can't see Nuggets letting him go without a fight.
Jason Richardson obviously is a player that can provide some offensive punch & hit the 3-ball, so he could fit straight in as a starting 2-guard.
Wed Jun 01, 2011 12:05 am
Jamal Crawford has a bad history with the Bulls.
Wed Jun 01, 2011 4:02 pm
The X wrote:when Rose doesn't pass the ball. All that being said, can't see Nuggets letting him go without a fight.
Since when does Rose not pass the ball?
Fri Jun 03, 2011 6:08 am
Andrew wrote:The X wrote:when Rose doesn't pass the ball. All that being said, can't see Nuggets letting him go without a fight.
Since when does Rose not pass the ball?
Sorry, don't mind me and my sandy vagina. I'm just being a hater. Wasn't a serious comment.
Fri Jun 03, 2011 12:51 pm
Fair enough. I do actually think there's room for improvement in his shot selection/decision making - he is still young after all - but I'd say that he's already got a pretty good handle of when to make the pass and when to take over himself.
Wed Jun 08, 2011 11:14 am
i hope it was boozer's injuries instead of enlarged vagina preventing him from showing up. if this guy has any heart he'll come back strong. othwerwise that's a ben wallace like contract/player there
i agree with the 2 guard suggestions. specifically Afflalo and Richardson.
One player i'd like to add to that list is Hinrich. I was never a fan but the team needs his skillset. he can defend either guard position. doesn't require shots, can hit 3's, and most importantly can handle the ball. i'm not sure if it has been mentioned here but the bulls desparately needed another player who can handle the ball in the ECF. You relieve Rose of ball handling duties and even get more creative with the offense with another reliable guard. Hinrich is a FA and my guess is that he'll come cheap
I think Brewer's role needs to expand. he was awesome against Wade. after watching Wade going off against Dallas- i'm even more impressed by Brewer's defense. i hope Bogans doesn't come back
Wed Jun 08, 2011 11:37 am
Yeah, at a cheaper price Hinrich isn't an unappealing option. As you said he can handle the ball, knock down the three and defend. He doesn't bring a lot of size but they've got a few other bigger guards now, so if the interest is there he wouldn't be a bad addition. I haven't seen that much of him since he left the Bulls but seems he's not as quick to pull up for ill-advised threes on the fast break, something which always bugged me about his decision making, so that'd be a plus if he's weaned himself of that habit.
Sun Jun 12, 2011 10:53 pm
whoops sorry. Hinrich still has 1yr on his contract. strike him off the list
Reggie Williams is another guy to consider
as well as:
Jamal Crawford
Nick Young
Marcus Thornton
or the bulls could try to pimp off some combo of Korver/Brewer/Asik/1st round pick and see who's interested.
i don't want to trade Asik or Brewer but you gotta do what you gotta do.
there have been some rumors of Monta Ellis and Mayo involved in with the bulls. Maybe even RIP if he takes a buyout/Detroit agrees to pay most of his salary in a trade.
or how about Stephen Jackson? fits the skillset the bulls need . maybe good ol' MJ realizes Charlotte needs to shed some more salary and does the bulls a favor
Sun Jun 12, 2011 10:57 pm
Hamilton's not a long term solution but I definitely don't mind that if it comes to pass. He's a solid scorer to have off the bench or starting, they wouldn't be paying him nearly as much as the Pistons are now following a buyout so I think it'd be a good deal. Jackson's got the skillset but he's possibly a bit too volatile. That said, if he was to come in and do a great job, I'd gladly eat my words.
Mon Jun 13, 2011 2:30 pm
Are you serious Andrew? Rip Hamilton would be great in Chicago and definitely would help take some of scoring load off of Rose. His ability to play without the ball has not gone anywhere. It isnt like he would interfere with what D-Rose does either. He doesnt need isolations to score. That would be another teams nightmare having to worry about chasing Rip off of screens and avoiding the speed of Derrick Rose from getting into the paint. That would wear any team down. Just look at Boston and their back court. Teams struggle with Rondos speed and chasing Ray Allen off of those screens. I understand your concern with keeping Hamilton for long term purposes but he could have a good three years left in him.
Last edited by
atlwarrior on Mon Jun 13, 2011 2:39 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Mon Jun 13, 2011 2:34 pm
Did you read my post? I said I liked the idea of Hamilton being brought in.
Powered by phpBB © phpBB Group.
phpBB Mobile / SEO by Artodia.