PLAYOFF Game Thread: Bulls vs. Pistons Game 1

by your friendly BullsBlogger on May 5, 2007 12:32 PM CDT in News

First, thanks to Rick Morrissey for pointing out how lame of an idea the 'trash talk' or 'bulletin board material' that Andres Nocioni provided is this week.

There's not a whole lot of brashness in it. There's belief, which is what there should be after you've just finished sweeping the defending NBA champions.

The Pistons, of course, are taking offense because that's what athletes are conditioned to do. The Heat took offense, too-be careful what you wish for, Alonzo Mourning had said of Hinrich's stated desire to play Miami-and we're still waiting for them to come up with something in the way of a meaningful response.

This week has been too long. We'll know so much more about how these two teams fare tomorrow after they, ya know, play a game. It truly looks like an even matchup, and whatever advantage the Pistons get from 'being there before' the Bulls seem to mitigate by not giving a shit that they haven't, while taking one of their guys who has. We have seen before the insane production that Jason Kidd has gotten against his nemesis Scott Skiles, I wonder if something similar can happen with Ben Wallace against Flip Saunders.

As like against Miami, the Bulls need to make the Pistons look old, and a lot will be told by the turnover battle. The Pistons are the best ballhandling team in the league, while the Bulls are second-best at forcing TOs. Forcing those turnovers keeps the Pistons from slowing the game down to their league-lowest pace and will help the Bulls get easy looks in transition. If this gets into a trading possession matchup in the final minutes, the Pistons are much more comfortable in that environment and will have the advantage running their set plays.

By contrast, the Bulls just need to play their normal game, without isolation playcalling but with ball movement. That needs to start with the Bulls attacking the Pistons suspect (or at least slowed) interior defense with Gordon, Deng, and Hinrich to putting pressure on their man and forcing rotations by the defense. But to do that they first need to stay on the floor, as the story early will be how the Bulls guards handle Hamilton and Billups. Traditionally Skiles puts Gordon on Billups and have Hinrich chase around Rip (while pulling Rip's wrist from his sockets, of course), and hopefully those two don't get into foul trouble early. The Pistons have done a good job this season using Billups to force Gordon to the bench, and that's puts huge pressure on the other Bulls players to create opportunities for themselves if Ben isn't there to create openings for them.

Let's see how the core handles this new challenge, and the team will feed off their success or failure. The Bulls are playing their best ball of the season, and I don't think the extra rest hurts them any. The Piston fans usually malign the team's need for a 'wake up call' to get them going, so lets hope the Bulls give it to them in a game one victory. That way they'll find out soon enough that this Bulls team won't just be an annoyance to them that they can swat away when they feel like it. This Bulls team is going after their self-appointed title of Eastern Conference supremacy.

Tweet Comment 187 comments | 0 recs |

Do you like this story?

Comments

Play Ball!

and play Tyrus.

"I've never been swept before. I don't know what that means." Thats captain chunk!

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on May 5, 2007 1:04 PM CDT reply actions

Yes...play Tyrus...

...he could be a "secret weapon".
And play Thabo too...ALOT..

by Bluelou on May 5, 2007 1:27 PM CDT up reply actions

I want a win

so bad tonight. I hope Kirk and Ben can keep themselves on the floor for most of the night. It's on TT and Thabo as to how much playing time they get. I hope Deng can keep his hot streak going too. We also need a huge game from Big Ben.

GO BULLS!!!

My team has no "super star". It has players who have desire, determination and heart making them a "super team". GO BULLS!!!

by sue369 on May 5, 2007 2:21 PM CDT reply actions

Ben's #s against DET-RIOT (not a typo)

3games:
41.7mpg 3.3/8.3 FG 40% 1.3/4.7FT 29% 5ORPG 8.7DRPG 13.7REB 2.3PF 8.0PPG

Not too shabby.

LUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU!!!!!!!!!!!!!

by cubbybear on May 5, 2007 2:56 PM CDT up reply actions

But this is

a whole new season. If he can play like he did in the first series I'll be happy. I just don't want silly fouls and turnovers from him or Kirk.

My team has no "super star". It has players who have desire, determination and heart making them a "super team". GO BULLS!!!

by sue369 on May 5, 2007 4:14 PM CDT up reply actions

you mean like the first series?

by milesgmsu on May 10, 2007 12:03 PM CDT up reply actions

Prince plays Deng pretty well.

That will be a huge battle. These teams are almost like miror images.

Beat Detroit! Thats captain chunk!

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on May 5, 2007 2:59 PM CDT reply actions

Oh wait I take that back.

Duhon vs Hunter will be the preeminent match up.

Beat Detroit! Thats captain chunk!

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on May 5, 2007 3:02 PM CDT up reply actions

Flip Saunders agrees on the mirror image thing

"They've got a long three, we have a long three -- tall, long, multidimensional player," Saunders said, referring to Chicago's Luol Deng and the Pistons' Tayshaun Prince.

"They have a two that's a great scorer, happens to be from Connecticut; we've got a two that's a great scorer, happens to be from Connecticut," Saunders said of Bulls guard Ben Gordon and Richard Hamilton, who both starred at UConn.

"They've got (Kirk) Hinrich, who was second-team All-Defense this year, and Chauncey (Billups) was as far as last year, and they both played in the Big (12)," Saunders said of the two teams' point guards.

And, for good measure ...

"Up front, they've got a Wallace and we've got one," Saunders said, referring to Ben and Rasheed Wallace.

http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070503/SPORTS03/705030444/1051&imw=Y

"We're in trouble if we lose at home. If we lose at home, you come back and talk to me and I'll tell you: 'You know what? We're in trouble.'" Alonzo Mourning

by wjb1492 on May 5, 2007 4:01 PM CDT up reply actions

OT: Smush is gone from LA

Not like it's that groundbreaking,but still interesting nonetheless, that the Lakers aren't going to pursue Parker for next season.

Odom and Bynum might be on their way out, too.

"They beat us. They beat us, period." - Pat Riley

by NittanyBull on May 5, 2007 4:29 PM CDT reply actions

Nocioni sign and trade

plus Duhon and the Knicks' pick for Odom. I emailed Sam today!

by Paxson Jackson @ Blog a Bull on May 5, 2007 4:40 PM CDT up reply actions

ha!

Funny fella.

by tyger1147 on May 5, 2007 4:42 PM CDT up reply actions

Need4Sheed is jealous

I may not have photoshopping skills like Natalie at Need4Sheed, but on this day of horse-ploitation I thought a visit to PETA was in order. Those wacky animal rights folks helped me out with a bit of inflammatory photo doctoring.

by Paxson Jackson @ Blog a Bull on May 5, 2007 4:49 PM CDT reply actions

Predictions for tonight

Sheed will be beside himself after getting called for a foul he committed on purpose
Tayshaun Prince will look like Starvin Marvin
McDyess will have a sarcastic smile on his face the entire game

by Craig Hodges Explosion 3000 on May 5, 2007 5:09 PM CDT reply actions

Did ya'll see Sheed's statement?

Sheed says the bulls are just "happy to be here." Haha. He is clearly misunderestimating the Bulls' desire to win.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/preview;_ylt=AomSbL_s9cqonhFvphPTgHq8vLYF?gid=2007050508&prov=ap

by jai on May 5, 2007 5:10 PM CDT reply actions

Let him think that if he wants

Hell, Miami thought that the Bulls had a ton of pressure on them to close out the series in Miami. I wonder what they're thinking now? Actually, I think I know what Shaq is thinking right now; he's probably thinking about which type of Krispy Kreme donuts he should eat while he watches this series on TV.

by Big D on May 5, 2007 5:58 PM CDT up reply actions

It's finally time!

"We're in trouble if we lose at home. If we lose at home, you come back and talk to me and I'll tell you: 'You know what? We're in trouble.'" Alonzo Mourning

by wjb1492 on May 5, 2007 5:58 PM CDT reply actions

Bullsh*t second foul on Gordon.

Absolute crap.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 6:08 PM CDT reply actions

This officiating is absolute fucking dogsh*t.

Unreal.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 6:10 PM CDT reply actions

Fucking Gordon

Goddamn, Billups, just absolutely ABUSED him. They're going to have to put Hinrich on him (until he inevitably gets in foul trouble himself).

by Big D on May 5, 2007 6:11 PM CDT reply actions

Six team fouls in five minutes.

Refs have drastically altered the game.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 6:13 PM CDT reply actions

I was reading a Pistons blog earlier this week

(don't remember where now, so can't post a link), and they were having a pretty interesting conversation about how they thought Chicago is the only team that gets screwed over by the refs worse than Detroit. Not sure how much I agree with the Pistons getting screwed part...

Going to be tough to win if the Pistons get 72 free throws, which is there current pace.

"We're in trouble if we lose at home. If we lose at home, you come back and talk to me and I'll tell you: 'You know what? We're in trouble.'" Alonzo Mourning

by wjb1492 on May 5, 2007 6:17 PM CDT up reply actions

Get Nocioni out of there

He's playing horribly

"They beat us. They beat us, period." - Pat Riley

by NittanyBull on May 5, 2007 6:20 PM CDT reply actions

just got home and turned on the game

what the hell is going on here??

by daaaabulls on May 5, 2007 6:22 PM CDT reply actions

I am fuming.

The refs completely changed this damn game with that dogsh*t second foul on Gordon. It was incidental contact.

Now we have to find someone else who can score.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 6:22 PM CDT reply actions

Thomas is in.

And he gets his first foul as I type this.

Sigh.

Jesus Christ the refs.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 6:25 PM CDT reply actions

Put Thabo on Billups.

It's not like we lose any offnsive production when Duhon leaves.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 6:28 PM CDT reply actions

At least Ben came to play.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 6:30 PM CDT reply actions

Duhon is really killing the Bulls.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 6:31 PM CDT reply actions

amen

putting thabo in is the smart move

by daaaabulls on May 5, 2007 6:32 PM CDT up reply actions

Could be worse

the way they were calling fouls there at the beginning. We're actually shooting the same percentage, and TOs leveled off, it's just the stupid fouls.

"We're in trouble if we lose at home. If we lose at home, you come back and talk to me and I'll tell you: 'You know what? We're in trouble.'" Alonzo Mourning

by wjb1492 on May 5, 2007 6:34 PM CDT reply actions

Gordonb got fukcing run over on that

Prince rebound.

No call.

Ben Wallace is the only one who is playing right now.

Tyrus is fumbling the ball and turning it over.

Noce is missing shots and turning it over.

Duhon is just turning it over and getting abused on defense.

Hinrich is invisible on the offensive end.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 6:38 PM CDT reply actions

Duhon

What the F$#@. How many freakin' turnovers before they get his ass out of there?

by bullsfaninbigapple on May 5, 2007 6:38 PM CDT reply actions

Fucking atrocious

Nocioni has been terrible. Tyrus looks like a scared kid out there. When Ben Wallace is your leading scorer, it means that you're probably losing badly.

by Big D on May 5, 2007 6:39 PM CDT reply actions

Thabo time

finally

-Jeeves Sweet Home Sports

by jeeves on May 5, 2007 6:41 PM CDT reply actions

ballsy charge by Gordon

that could have been 3

-Jeeves Sweet Home Sports

by jeeves on May 5, 2007 6:42 PM CDT reply actions

How many fucking times will we turn it over?

How many?

Get your heads out of your asses, Bulls.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 6:42 PM CDT reply actions

Thabo

This kid is good.

by bullsfaninbigapple on May 5, 2007 6:44 PM CDT reply actions

I see shades of sacha cohen

when I look at Thabo

-Jeeves Sweet Home Sports

by jeeves on May 5, 2007 6:44 PM CDT reply actions

Sacha Baron Cohen

not the ice skater

-Jeeves Sweet Home Sports

by jeeves on May 5, 2007 6:56 PM CDT up reply actions

ive said it once

and ill say it again

thabo looks straight out of a blaxpoitation film...and i love it

by milesgmsu on May 10, 2007 12:07 PM CDT up reply actions

Whiners

I think Detroit could actually give the Heat a run for their money as the whiniest team

Bulls need to start making freaking free throws

-Jeeves Sweet Home Sports

by jeeves on May 5, 2007 6:47 PM CDT reply actions

i would have det as whiniest

they bitch after every single call; the heat only after 2/3s plus the heat blogosphere doesnt bitch nearly as much as the pistons does

by milesgmsu on May 10, 2007 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions

This is an embarrassing showing

thus far.

We are playing like a bunch of mentally retarded children.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 6:48 PM CDT reply actions

I am shock

The bulls are playing like a high school team. Come on guys, pick it up!!!

by bullsfaninbigapple on May 5, 2007 6:48 PM CDT reply actions

I meant in shock

Even the fans can't get things right!

by bullsfaninbigapple on May 5, 2007 6:49 PM CDT reply actions

This is getting ugly

At this point, it's not even worth it to mention all the Bulls who are playing badly. It's a lot quicker to mention all the Bulls playing well: Ben Wallace. That's it. Everyone else has been horrible.

by Big D on May 5, 2007 6:49 PM CDT reply actions

Hopefully they can get it to single digits

At the half. Seeing whether they can tighten up and make a game of it will tell us a lot about this team.

by SuperContext on May 5, 2007 6:54 PM CDT reply actions

the pistons complain about everything

give me a break... obvious blocking foul right there.

at least luol is attacking, unlike hinrich

by daaaabulls on May 5, 2007 6:54 PM CDT reply actions

OHHHHHHHHHHHHH

by daaaabulls on May 5, 2007 6:55 PM CDT reply actions

Wow

Deng hammers down!

-Jeeves Sweet Home Sports

by jeeves on May 5, 2007 6:55 PM CDT reply actions

HOLY SHIT

Jason Maxiell is going to be on Sportscenter tonight!

by Big D on May 5, 2007 6:56 PM CDT reply actions

They had to go and find a Duke connection

with the sportsmanship award - now I'll never be able to think of it the same.

"We're in trouble if we lose at home. If we lose at home, you come back and talk to me and I'll tell you: 'You know what? We're in trouble.'" Alonzo Mourning

by wjb1492 on May 5, 2007 6:57 PM CDT reply actions

Come on Bulls.

At least make this competitive.

The fucking Magic played them closer than this.

We are just making a number of fundamental mental errors that are killing us.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 6:58 PM CDT reply actions

How the hell has Rasheed not gotten T'd up yet?

They let him get away with shit that no other NBA player can get away with, simply because they'd have to throw him out of every single game otherwise. Can you imagine if Stepehn Jackson did half the stuff Rasheed does?

by Big D on May 5, 2007 6:58 PM CDT reply actions

I hate the Pistons

That is all.

by SuperContext on May 5, 2007 7:02 PM CDT reply actions

duhon's an ass clown

by daaaabulls on May 5, 2007 7:05 PM CDT reply actions

Duhon, you dumb cocksucker.

11 turnovers in one half.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 7:05 PM CDT reply actions

Great play drawn up by Skiles

The only fault with it was that it was drawn up for Duh

-Jeeves Sweet Home Sports

by jeeves on May 5, 2007 7:08 PM CDT up reply actions

Chicago has 9 overall, Duhon giving 1

Nocioni was playing absolutely atrocious when he was in; whether it was defending, trying to go in hard, or trying to hold onto the ball.

"They beat us. They beat us, period." - Pat Riley

by NittanyBull on May 5, 2007 7:09 PM CDT up reply actions

never noticed that

billups has like 2 chins... crazy

by daaaabulls on May 5, 2007 7:07 PM CDT reply actions

chitown

you should really try and get a grip on yourself.

by bullshooter on May 5, 2007 7:11 PM CDT reply actions

Agreed

No need to go bonkers like the last time Chicago lost. Not really a shot at hongydraw, but there's not much of a need to get the water boiling so high after just a half of basketball.

"They beat us. They beat us, period." - Pat Riley

by NittanyBull on May 5, 2007 7:19 PM CDT up reply actions

I get very infuriated when

the Bulls play in a stupid manner.

It just drives me nuts.

They are making so many unforced errors.

I am not advocating that we break up the team!

They're just playing, well, awful basketball.

It's frustrating to see that against the Pistons.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 7:21 PM CDT up reply actions

Oh I agree, believe you me.

Hopefully they turn it up in the 2nd half

"They beat us. They beat us, period." - Pat Riley

by NittanyBull on May 5, 2007 7:23 PM CDT up reply actions

That was the worst possible way to start the

series.

Gordon gets in foul trouble and then turns the ball over. Hinrich is invisible. Duhon is terrible. Thabo isn't shooting well.

On the other side, Detroit's guards get off (with a little extra help from the refs).

PJ was okay. Nocioni was terrible. He missed shots and turned the ball over. Tyrus looked like a panic stricken preschooler. All fumbled balls and turnovers.

On the other side, Maxiel makes shots he doesn't normally make. Delfino hits shots. Detroit's bench contribuutes.

11 turnovers in one half.

Just terrible.

Only Deng and Wallace came to play.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 7:12 PM CDT reply actions

granted im writing this after the face

but malik was by far the best 4 in game 1....PJ was terrible...b ut only slightly less terrible than noch or tyrus

by milesgmsu on May 10, 2007 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions

I think

I'm going to cry.

Things have to get better for us in the second half. Don't they?

My team has no "super star". It has players who have desire, determination and heart making them a "super team". GO BULLS!!!

by sue369 on May 5, 2007 7:12 PM CDT reply actions

In order to make the game competitive,

we'll have to limit turnovers, get some scoring from our guards, limit Detroit's offensive rebounds, and generally play vastly better defense.

The Bulls can still get back in it. But they'll need a good third quarter.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 7:16 PM CDT reply actions

The third quarter

hasn't always been good to them during the regular season but they did better in the first seiries. They can come back I hope they do.

My team has no "super star". It has players who have desire, determination and heart making them a "super team". GO BULLS!!!

by sue369 on May 5, 2007 7:20 PM CDT up reply actions

or switch locker rooms

by milesgmsu on May 10, 2007 12:11 PM CDT up reply actions

limit turnovers and get def rebounds

and we can get back in this game!

by babybulls on May 5, 2007 7:21 PM CDT reply actions

also

when did jason maxiel start making jump shots?

by babybulls on May 5, 2007 7:21 PM CDT up reply actions

All in all

I am not that discouraged. The Bulls look quicker to the ball, and most if not all of the turnovers were nervous ones and not really caused by Detroit. I think the Bulls will make it close in the second half.

by bullshooter on May 5, 2007 7:22 PM CDT reply actions

i disagree

noc had several balls stripped from him and BG had a few taken from him as well. Tyrus did have some jitter TOs but my thing to him is get over it, we have been pleading for PT for you!!!!!!!

by babybulls on May 5, 2007 7:24 PM CDT up reply actions

Uh

Which game are you watching?

by ChrisRobin on May 5, 2007 8:29 PM CDT up reply actions

I wonder if Skiles will give Tyrus another chance?

Or is Tyrus done for the day. as he was in game three of the Heat series after a poor stint in the first half.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 7:24 PM CDT reply actions

Maybe it's me

but I don't think the second round of the playoffs is the time to give somebody a chance to "work out the jitters."

by bullshooter on May 5, 2007 7:33 PM CDT up reply actions

LOL. I tend to agree.

I wwas just wondering of he would get another chance if we keep getting killed on the boards.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 7:34 PM CDT up reply actions

Or if we have no one to guard Sheed...

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 7:38 PM CDT up reply actions

not all that bad

Look, this is going to be a long series. The bulls will adjust. Let's hope they start in the third quarter. It'll be interesting to see if they try Thabo on Billups. Some pistons made shots that they usually don't, so let's see if they stay hot.

by jai on May 5, 2007 7:24 PM CDT reply actions

the pistons both games

were shooting lights out and hitting circus shots left and right

by milesgmsu on May 10, 2007 12:12 PM CDT up reply actions

Fouls and free throw shooting evened out

in the 2nd quarter, and Bulls aren't shooting horribly. Detroit has taken 11 more shots and made 7 more, so yeah, limiting TOs and hitting the boards should do it.

"We're in trouble if we lose at home. If we lose at home, you come back and talk to me and I'll tell you: 'You know what? We're in trouble.'" Alonzo Mourning

by wjb1492 on May 5, 2007 7:25 PM CDT reply actions

Have a little faith guys

If you start complaining, you might as well be the Pistons. The Bulls are still in the game and Skiles and company know more about it than we do. Trust them please!

by Kantut on May 5, 2007 7:28 PM CDT reply actions

These 3s

are going to be the death of us. We've got to stay out on the guards.

Hinrich: The second coming of Stockton, minus the short shorts.

by Chalkwhite on May 5, 2007 7:32 PM CDT reply actions

Man, Deng is playing great

Nice pass to Hinrich

"They beat us. They beat us, period." - Pat Riley

by NittanyBull on May 5, 2007 7:33 PM CDT reply actions

And with that

8 points. The fire still burns.

Hinrich: The second coming of Stockton, minus the short shorts.

by Chalkwhite on May 5, 2007 7:33 PM CDT up reply actions

Gordon's defense is bad this game.

He is turning the ball over as well.

And he isn't scoring to offset those negatives.

Billups is going right at him on every possesion.

BG has to start scoring.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 7:33 PM CDT reply actions

Deng is a stud

He has become so consistent. I wish BG could be the same way. But BG is streaky, he could suddenly get hot.

by bullsfaninbigapple on May 5, 2007 7:35 PM CDT reply actions

David Blaines' voice is like nails on a chalkboard

It's okay to change the volume of your voice, guy.

"They beat us. They beat us, period." - Pat Riley

by NittanyBull on May 5, 2007 7:36 PM CDT reply actions

i think the commericals are funny

if a bit insulting to the players; but david blaine looks like hes drugged - always reminds me of the south park episode with him

by milesgmsu on May 10, 2007 12:13 PM CDT up reply actions

Here come T-Time

Cross your fingers.

Hinrich: The second coming of Stockton, minus the short shorts.

by Chalkwhite on May 5, 2007 7:38 PM CDT reply actions

That was quick

All you people who wanted to see more of him: I hope you're happy.

by Big D on May 5, 2007 7:52 PM CDT up reply actions

Gordon is awful tonight.

Both he and Duhon have been very bad.

Our offense looks completely out of sync.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 7:52 PM CDT reply actions

this is ugly

Aw man. Malik Allen just got eaten alive. The offense looks just totally out of whack. They need to play out of their minds to overcome a 13 pt lead.

by jai on May 5, 2007 7:56 PM CDT reply actions

and sadly

leek was the best 4 out there

by milesgmsu on May 10, 2007 12:13 PM CDT up reply actions

The way Kirk is shooting tonight

he needs to take more. The only thing he has missed has been that end of half lay up off the steal.

3rd quarter Kirk was 3-3, everyone else 3-15.

"We're in trouble if we lose at home. If we lose at home, you come back and talk to me and I'll tell you: 'You know what? We're in trouble.'" Alonzo Mourning

by wjb1492 on May 5, 2007 7:57 PM CDT reply actions

Wow

I think we have to give some credit to Detroit. I didn't realize their defense was this good - and they have so much depth on offense. Impressive team. I think the only way we can win this series is if BG comes up big in at least 3 games. Other than Deng, we don't have much offense.

by bullsfaninbigapple on May 5, 2007 7:57 PM CDT reply actions

We don't need

BG to "come up big", we just need him to do SOMETHING on the offensive end.

In this game, everything that could have gone wrong for Chicago has, and everything the could have gone right for Detroit has. We need to fucking regroup.

I'm going to vomit.

Hinrich: The second coming of Stockton, minus the short shorts.

by Chalkwhite on May 5, 2007 8:02 PM CDT up reply actions

12 offensive rebounds allowed and 16 TO's.

Through three quarters.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 7:58 PM CDT reply actions

Oh well

maybe next year

by vlad001 on May 5, 2007 8:00 PM CDT reply actions

WTF? It's one game

What was honestly the point of that comment?

"They beat us. They beat us, period." - Pat Riley

by NittanyBull on May 5, 2007 8:01 PM CDT up reply actions

the point was

to get you riled up.

by bullshooter on May 5, 2007 8:03 PM CDT up reply actions

Well, it worked

"They beat us. They beat us, period." - Pat Riley

by NittanyBull on May 5, 2007 8:04 PM CDT up reply actions

It's only game one.

Granted, it is a pathetic showing.

But it is only game one.

They won't do this to the Bulls in Chicago.

We tied Miami 2-2 after being down 2-0 last season.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 8:03 PM CDT up reply actions

and WSH won after losing the first two

but i relaize the qualityt of te teams involved dont translate to this series

by milesgmsu on May 10, 2007 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions

come on,

the Magic played 'em closer than this. The fucking MAGIC!

by vlad001 on May 5, 2007 8:03 PM CDT up reply actions

damn

At this point, they need to just make it close enough to get their confidence back. They've made some really bad decisions tonight. They need to clean it up and figure out a way to take something positive out of this game.

by jai on May 5, 2007 8:03 PM CDT reply actions

This loss in on the second and third guards in the

rotation, Gordon and Duhon.

There were both terrible. Hinrich is the only guard who showed up.

You can give an assist to the backup forwards as well, Nocioni and Tyrus.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 8:05 PM CDT reply actions

Hey! Bench basket!

"We're in trouble if we lose at home. If we lose at home, you come back and talk to me and I'll tell you: 'You know what? We're in trouble.'" Alonzo Mourning

by wjb1492 on May 5, 2007 8:06 PM CDT reply actions

SHOOT ME

Hinrich: The second coming of Stockton, minus the short shorts.

by Chalkwhite on May 5, 2007 8:08 PM CDT reply actions

I might just have to turn off the TV

and turn back on monday night.

by jai on May 5, 2007 8:10 PM CDT reply actions

Lot s of garbage time tonight

tyrus might get to work the kinks out yet.

by bullshooter on May 5, 2007 8:11 PM CDT reply actions

It's pretty frustrating

when the positive out of this game so far is that the starters sit most of the 4th and should be fresh Monday.

Starters shot .500 - bench is at .048 with 5:50 to go.

"We're in trouble if we lose at home. If we lose at home, you come back and talk to me and I'll tell you: 'You know what? We're in trouble.'" Alonzo Mourning

by wjb1492 on May 5, 2007 8:15 PM CDT up reply actions

why is hamilton still in?

hope that punk turns an ankle

by fireskiles on May 5, 2007 8:11 PM CDT reply actions

never root for injuries

~ The miles

by milesgmsu on May 10, 2007 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions

Loss

This loss was on the entire team, from top to bottom. Everyone sucked. Hinrich and Deng maybe sucked the least, but they sucked to. Hinrich needed to be way more aggressive, and Deng had some bad TOs too.

by nas on May 5, 2007 8:11 PM CDT reply actions

offensive foul on tyrus

the dumbest player in the nba

by fireskiles on May 5, 2007 8:13 PM CDT reply actions

Both that comment and your alias

leave no doubt in my mind that you are not a real astute observer of basketball.

The kid's a rookie. STFU.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 8:19 PM CDT up reply actions

Which...

Which Tyrus are you watching? Horrible decisions, bad turnovers, and getting abused on the defensive end. It doesn't take an "astute observer" to see that... just someone who is minimally observant.

by ChrisRobin on May 5, 2007 8:32 PM CDT up reply actions

And that makes him

"the dumbest player in the NBA"?

Of course it doesn't. Only a moron would say that or support that statement.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 8:35 PM CDT up reply actions

If not

the dumbest, he's certainly in the same ZIP code. Dumb fouls. Bad defensive rotations. Poor decisions with the ball (such as trying to run the length of the court on the dribble).

Look - I love his "upside" as much as anyone, but he's been brutal since the playoffs started.

by ChrisRobin on May 5, 2007 10:21 PM CDT up reply actions

Could it be that his mistakes are

attributable to the fact that he is a rookie in his first playoffs, rather than some inherent lack of intelligence?

Calling him the "dumbest player in the NBA" is fucking ludicrous.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 10:24 PM CDT up reply actions

I agree.

My team has no "super star". It has players who have desire, determination and heart making them a "super team". GO BULLS!!!

by sue369 on May 6, 2007 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions

I'm referring

to "basketball IQ." No one is implying Thomas is too stupid to tie his own shoes in the morning.

by ChrisRobin on May 6, 2007 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions

Jay Bilas everybody...

Give 'em a hand. Tyrus is more raw than your average rookie, but not to the extent of hyperbole, and he has shown flashes of being more than just an athlete.

by Paxson Jackson @ Blog a Bull on May 6, 2007 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions

im still gonna go with

deshaun stevenson

by milesgmsu on May 10, 2007 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions

Ron Artest is still in the NBA, isn't he?

Has he followed through on his threat to retire?

by Big D on May 5, 2007 8:22 PM CDT up reply actions

WTF

the least they could do is play with pride. they have their heads up their butts.

by jai on May 5, 2007 8:19 PM CDT reply actions

It's only game 1

No need to burn up energy playing for pride. Chalk up the loss and move on to game 2...

by bleargh on May 5, 2007 8:22 PM CDT up reply actions

I understand losing on the road in the playoffs.

No biggie. Happens all of the time.

But I do not understand the failure to even be competitive.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 8:22 PM CDT reply actions

"with pride" not "for pride"

Bleargh, playing for pride means playing your starters to get the score close. Playing with pride means not getting all sloppy and loosey goosey just because you're down a lot of points and you know the game is over.

by jai on May 5, 2007 8:24 PM CDT reply actions

So, you want the starters to play

so they keep the score close for a game that's already lost?

"They beat us. They beat us, period." - Pat Riley

by NittanyBull on May 5, 2007 8:26 PM CDT up reply actions

Absolutely not.

But WTF is Nocioni doing in the game during garbage time? He's got a chronic foot condition (in addition to his fumbilitis). Get him the fuck out of there already.

by ChrisRobin on May 5, 2007 8:33 PM CDT up reply actions

Are we going to find

Matt in his garage with the car running after this game? He hasn't commented.

And I'm sure that PaxJax will have a field day with Noc's performance...

Can I just forget this game ever happened?

Hinrich: The second coming of Stockton, minus the short shorts.

by Chalkwhite on May 5, 2007 8:25 PM CDT reply actions

Will PaxJax mention Tyrus's performance?

Because let's be honest: EVERYBODY played like shit today. The bench was bad enough that I was almost hoping to see Sweetney out there (if he's even on the playoff roster).

by Big D on May 5, 2007 8:32 PM CDT up reply actions

What is Bulls all-time low for playoff scoring?

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 8:26 PM CDT reply actions

huzzzaaa

69 points!
70 is in sight

by fireskiles on May 5, 2007 8:28 PM CDT reply actions

nittany bull,

you read it the opposite. just see the thread.

by jai on May 5, 2007 8:29 PM CDT reply actions

If you're going to lose,

Better to lose this way, by just getting your asses handed to you from the start, then to lose a heartbreaker. Now nobody can fool themselves into thinking they did enough to win; everyone knows they need to play better. Plenty of teams have lost games like this and gone on to win the series, and there's no possible way the Bulls can play this badly again. At least this stinkbomb was on the road rather than at home.

by Big D on May 5, 2007 8:29 PM CDT reply actions

Uuuuuuuuuuffff

Ay Caramba!

LUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU!!!!!!!!!!!!!

by cubbybear on May 5, 2007 8:33 PM CDT reply actions

The Bulls players should feel humiliated.

Losing by almost thirty is ridiculous.

If they have any competitive fire whatsoever, they should come back strong on Monday.

Tactically, we have to limit TO's, control the boards, attack the zone, and, of course, get some semblance of production from Gordon. Gordon got in early foul trouble, which took him out of rhythm and may explain some of his struggles, but overall he was terrible.

On the positve side (I guess), I don't think we can play a worse game.

by 1958ChiTown on May 5, 2007 8:34 PM CDT reply actions

Plenty of blame to go around, obviously

Doubt we'll see the bench shoot .100 again.

We've watched these guys all season - they've had other awful games, and they've come back tough the next one.

On the bright side, we know all the cliches for losing on the road from playing the Heat!

"We're in trouble if we lose at home. If we lose at home, you come back and talk to me and I'll tell you: 'You know what? We're in trouble.'" Alonzo Mourning

by wjb1492 on May 5, 2007 8:37 PM CDT reply actions

How bad does this make the Heat look?

by bullshooter on May 5, 2007 8:38 PM CDT reply actions

One word:

Woof.

by ChrisRobin on May 6, 2007 12:48 PM CDT up reply actions

The Pistons

were ready to play tonight and the Bulls weren't. Our bench sucked. It's only one game and I hope the Bulls can make adjustments and give them a better game on Monday.

Did anyone else hear the announcers say that Big Ben was suppose to meet some of his former teammates for dinner last night and they stood him up? Nice.

My team has no "super star". It has players who have desire, determination and heart making them a "super team". GO BULLS!!!

by sue369 on May 5, 2007 8:41 PM CDT reply actions

SO STUPID

How are our young guys supposed to get playoff experience on the bench. Our starters should have at least been in the game as long as theirs. Even though Ben Gordon was off Id rather have him keep shooting than getting stuck with the ball in Malik Allen's hands... Game was bull crap, especially the foul calls in the 1st quarter. And We had nothing on offense. Tyrus was bad but we don't play the right way with him. We need to throw it up to him.

I hope they take this loss to heart and get back in gear. I was worried that they long layoff would have a negative effect... Sitting the guys in the 4th was a weak move.... where is the best place to hear or see a Skile's after game press conference??

by Zac23 on May 5, 2007 8:42 PM CDT reply actions

Game 2

I think we will come back strong, our guys have a lot of pride. But our lack of offensive depth really worries me in this series. It is becoming quite apparent that Ty/Thabo/Noc can't pick up the slack when either Lu or BG has a night off.

by bullsfaninbigapple on May 5, 2007 8:45 PM CDT reply actions

By ESPN's formula

Kirk had the best game of everyone from both teams - but the problem for the Bulls was that the next 4 best contributors were all Pistons starters (Hamilton, Billups, Prince, and Wallace). Lu and Ben were way below their statistical play from the Miami series (obvious to everyone watching, I know).

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/dailyleaders?date=20070505

"We're in trouble if we lose at home. If we lose at home, you come back and talk to me and I'll tell you: 'You know what? We're in trouble.'" Alonzo Mourning

by wjb1492 on May 5, 2007 8:51 PM CDT reply actions

Figures the

night Kirk has a good game the others have an off game. He was 3-3 on 3 pt. shots.

Monday night is a new game and I don't think they will play that horrible again this series.

My team has no "super star". It has players who have desire, determination and heart making them a "super team". GO BULLS!!!

by sue369 on May 5, 2007 9:24 PM CDT up reply actions

I'm sure he'd trade his stats for the W

But at least we shouldn't have to put up with anymore character assassination in the Sun-Times after this game.

"We're in trouble if we lose at home. If we lose at home, you come back and talk to me and I'll tell you: 'You know what? We're in trouble.'" Alonzo Mourning

by wjb1492 on May 5, 2007 9:45 PM CDT up reply actions

I'm sure he

would too. He didn't seem too disappointed in his post game press conference but I'm sure he was.

My team has no "super star". It has players who have desire, determination and heart making them a "super team". GO BULLS!!!

by sue369 on May 5, 2007 9:55 PM CDT up reply actions

Bull already had a successful

season. No way can they beat Pistons. Pistons will win in 5 or 6.

by zjuic on May 5, 2007 9:37 PM CDT reply actions

Flip Saunders

Is that you?

LUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU!!!!!!!!!!!!!

by cubbybear on May 5, 2007 10:00 PM CDT up reply actions

Nocioni

sucked out that entire game. he had so many turnovers, airballs and was slow on his rotations all night. he was absolutely terrible tonight. not that any one else outside of deng and hinrich were much better, but he was really killing us. then on top of that, tyrus had the whole "deer in the headlights" look for most of the game, so the only other options were PJ and Malik (because PJ was in foul trouble). Malik sucked, but then he's Malik Allen he should never be getting quality minutes in a second round playoff game to begin with, so you can't really blame him for everyone else ahead of him playing so terribly.

just a game to forget all the way around. let's hope that's what the bulls do.

by fundamentallysound on May 5, 2007 10:09 PM CDT reply actions

both teams played hard

Which one of you told me that Detroit had no bench? Detroit utilized a 10 man rotation tonight for most of the game, while CHI utilized mainly 8 until PJ got in foul trouble (just like I said they do in my diary earlier in the week).

Whoever asked earlier in the thread about Maxiell hitting jump shots? He's been doing it all season, he normally would rather thunderdunk over someone than take an 18 footer.

Tough loss tonight for the Bulls, but I've got no doubt they'll be back in Game 2. There's a reason why you guys almost won 50 games, and it's not because you don't go down without a fight.

by Boney @ Blog a Bull on May 5, 2007 10:30 PM CDT reply actions

Um, I thought you left

because all we do over here is talk about whose eyes are prettier.. Thomas or Nocioni?

I would say Noc. His eyes pierce into me everytime I see him.

Ridiculous

"They beat us. They beat us, period." - Pat Riley

by NittanyBull on May 5, 2007 10:48 PM CDT up reply actions

We don't

need your pity, Piston. Let us wallow in peace.

Hinrich: The second coming of Stockton, minus the short shorts.

by Chalkwhite on May 5, 2007 10:49 PM CDT up reply actions

it's not pity

I see half of the 144 posts when I first came to read them were about how the gd series was over.

The series isn't over. Now, if the same thing happens in Game 2, it will be over.

by Boney @ Blog a Bull on May 5, 2007 10:53 PM CDT up reply actions

Hey guys

Just got back home from a baseball game. What happened? My dad said the Bulls were not playing well turning the ball over and not hitting shots. Was that what happened? Lets hope we come back strong in Game 2

by SRQman on May 5, 2007 11:35 PM CDT reply actions

I don't know I would love to say

they looked rusty. Maybe Miami was just really bad. Sometimes when you play bad comp. it can rub off on you. We'll see I guess. I only watched 5 minutes of the recording then just turned it off.

Beat Detroit! Beat De'twa! Beat Detroit!

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on May 6, 2007 12:05 AM CDT reply actions

Too early to panic

Home team's supposed to control game one; means nothing. 7 game series pivot on games 2 and 5. If we steal one, the Bulls become the best team in the NBA again (for a couple of days). Pistons are a great team and took it to us in every way possible today. If the wheels had to come off at some point, game one is the best time I can think of, no?

by California Al on May 6, 2007 12:49 AM CDT reply actions

As they say

It is not a series until the home team loses

by SRQman on May 6, 2007 12:59 AM CDT up reply actions

You guys I feel some much better!

thank you! I now must have a cig. Im glad I didn't get to watch this game.

well what have we learned? You don't win a championship by beating Maimi in the playoffs. Please Please show up Monday night!

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on May 6, 2007 1:11 AM CDT up reply actions

I ment

well what have we learned? You don't win a championship by beating Maimi in the playoffs. Please Please show up Monday night!

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on May 6, 2007 1:11 AM CDT up reply actions

That being said

I don't see them winning on Monday! Do you? They just seem alot deeper and are playing alot different from the regular season.

well what have we learned? You don't win a championship by beating Maimi in the playoffs. Please Please show up Monday night!

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on May 6, 2007 1:13 AM CDT up reply actions

Depth for DET should not be a surprise

I said in my Round 2 Matchups diary that DET is deeper than you think. Tyrus Thomas had a rough night, but I think that's mainly because he was forced into action because of PJ Brown's foul trouble. I'd rather get PJ Brown in foul trouble than any of the guards because of the Bulls lack of front line depth. It's not a knock on you, it's just the truth if you scroll down the names of PF and C on the team.

by Boney @ Blog a Bull on May 6, 2007 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions

What happened

to Tyrus Thomas?

well what have we learned? You don't win a championship by beating Maimi in the playoffs. Please Please show up Monday night!

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on May 6, 2007 1:14 AM CDT reply actions

fancy box score

The It-was-over-as-soon-as-Duhon-touched-the-ball Game Flow is up. At least you don't have to watch Webber dunking on Nocioni again in the box score. I couldn't believe you people were up in arms over Thomas' performance, and what I was going to say about it. I don't think dumping a bucket of this on Tyrus, and saying "Now go play Rasheed Wallace" is the best management of the weakest position on the Bulls. The truth is Billups and Hamilton were controlling the game from the start, and when the Bulls lose it's often ugly. The Pistons' guards are foul magnets, and Gordon has to stay on the court.

by Paxson Jackson @ Blog a Bull on May 6, 2007 8:40 AM CDT reply actions

No Worries

Other than actually winning the game, this is the best thing that could happen to the Bulls.

by Agent 000 on May 6, 2007 8:44 AM CDT reply actions

Thanks

Now my comment makes sense by comparison.

by Paxson Jackson @ Blog a Bull on May 6, 2007 8:45 AM CDT up reply actions

Thank you

Thank you for all the laughs you have given me. I particulary enjoyed "and play Thomas" and then a little further on Thomas is only a rookie. HILARIOUS! Granted this is the first game. I am not even trash talking here. I think that you guys have a good core. Ben Gordon, Luol Deng are 2 of the better up and coming players in the league. Ben Wallace has only a couple of years left before he is done. But he is right now in the top 10 defensive players in the league. Even though he left the D in search of a pay check we appreciate what he did for the franchise. As far as I am concerned once he crossed over to the dark side he became our enemy. I am sick of this shaking hands and all this nicey nicey stuff in the NBA today. What happened to the days of Bill Laimbeer and Bill Cartwright? If Deng had tried to dunk over Bill Laimbeer like he did to Maxiel.....Deng would have been on his back looking up at him. Of course I am not advicating violence. I am just saying attitudes are different now in the NBA. But I can tell you one thing. I am pumped up for this series. I am glad that the "rivalry" is back. I say "rivalry" because it doesn't mean the same as it used to. Let me end with this. If chicago plays a good series and beats the pistons I will be the first to come back here and give you guys props. See ya after game 2.

by Madmax on May 6, 2007 11:43 AM CDT reply actions

(sigh)

"They beat us. They beat us, period." - Pat Riley

by NittanyBull on May 6, 2007 11:53 AM CDT up reply actions

I liked the Pistons fans more

when they'd come here and let everyone know Ben Wallace can't shoot free throws. Although the Pistons blogs, and now the rogue commentors that are bringing up the past does have a similar touch of WTF. Why would they want to get into a who's dick was historically bigger debate?

by Paxson Jackson @ Blog a Bull on May 6, 2007 12:04 PM CDT up reply actions

Paxson...

now you see why I don't enjoy posting a lot on Pistons' boards?

by Boney @ Blog a Bull on May 6, 2007 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions

I liked it when

when a certain someone left to go "drop knowledge" at a much better basketball site than this one--and I bet with distinguished critics of the game, where the beer also flows like water.

Why he is gracing us with his presence once again on this craptastic site, and now with a partner in crime, makes me chuckle inside.

"They beat us. They beat us, period." - Pat Riley

by NittanyBull on May 6, 2007 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions

I don't have a partner

you can see that I came to offer praise in an otherwise crappy night for your boys...

I tried to be honest in my early week diary with my pros and cons of both teams, but it got disrespected and disregarded like I didn't know what I was talking about. As evidenced by a greater portion of the game last night, I wasn't too far off in my description of the matchups Detroit would try to exploit.

by Boney @ Blog a Bull on May 6, 2007 9:43 PM CDT up reply actions

martyr

by Paxson Jackson @ Blog a Bull on May 6, 2007 10:07 PM CDT up reply actions

"HILARIOUS!"

I didn't know Jim Rome was down with Pistons. As far as playing Thomas goes, it's hardly a key to the game (a point I always thought was pretty clear). Thomas and Sefolosha are supposed to be the difference makers that add size and athleticism the Bulls have lacked the past few years. It's annoying to see the same outmatched players make the same mistakes in the same situations when the upgrades are on the bench. I want new mistakes dammit! The Bulls shouldn't be relying on the bench anyway, and Gordon-Deng-Hinrich all need to play well to beat good teams.

And really, you don't need to stop by to give props.

by Paxson Jackson @ Blog a Bull on May 6, 2007 12:29 PM CDT up reply actions

Look,

it was one game. This team has played like shit before and came back strong. I think tomorrow nights game will be much better for the Bulls. They got their asses kicked, it's not the first time nor will it be the last. We all move on.

My team has no "super star". It has players who have desire, determination and heart making them a "super team". GO BULLS!!!

by sue369 on May 6, 2007 12:19 PM CDT reply actions

Holy crap

I am sorr-ry. I didn't know that this was some sort of elite group of people. There is something about you bulls fan that I can't quite put a finger on. I come in and try to be cordial and all you guys get pissy. Well don't worry you won't see me in here again. Have a nice off season. Because if the Pistons play like they can and if Flip keeps using the bench like he is, the bulls won't be playing too much longer. So make your tee times now. The nets and cavs won't be far behind you.

by Madmax on May 6, 2007 12:59 PM CDT reply actions

I changed my signature.

I hope the rivalry comes back.

So I will write a limerick to inspire the Bulls:

There once was a game in Detroit,
The Bulls really have to exploit.
Rasheed is rooting
But lil' Ben is shooting,
So he won't be so maladroit.

"Always turn a negative situation into a positive situation." -Michael Jordan

by cubbybear on May 6, 2007 1:15 PM CDT reply actions

Sigh. And Cleveland wins to cap

off one of the worst sports weekends in recent memory.

All of my great sports antagonists prevailed: the Cavs, Mayweather, and of course the Pistons.

I hope the Bulls play better tomorrow. Gordon has to play better.

by 1958ChiTown on May 6, 2007 2:23 PM CDT reply actions

AHH

this weekend was not fun. Bulls lost and then today my favorite relief pitcher on my Devil Rays is sent to AAA after getting the win last night and striking out the side today. wtf is wrong with the world!

by SRQman on May 6, 2007 9:57 PM CDT up reply actions

Network Bar

Blog a Bull -

PLAYOFF Game Thread: Bulls vs. Pistons Game 1

Do you like this story?

Comments