Bulls 98, Mavericks 91: Awful first 6 minutes, bad final 4 minutes...everything else was awesome

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Nov 14, 2008 12:26 AM CST Comment 117 comments

After a pretty depressing showing against Atlanta, the Bulls needed to come out of the gates proving tonight would be different. They instead did the opposite, as halfway through the first they were down 24-5. The Bulls were missing everything they threw up, including several layups, while the Mavs were on fire, either pulling up in transition or abusing the Bulls down low.

But while anyone could assume the deficit wouldn't stay that severe considering how early it was in the game, the way the Bulls looked did not suggest they'd not only lead at the half, but eventually build a 17 point lead of their own.

I'll single out 4 real stars of tonight:

Ben Gordon kept the Bulls in that game with 19 first half points, finishing with 35 in nearly 42 minutes. And it wasn't a 3-point barrage, as he was only 2-3 from that range, and between points 6 and 28 not a single was from a 3-pointer. He was living in the paint, finishing and getting fouled (9-10 from the line). Not just a shooter, but an absolute scoring machine. He is having a fantastic start to this season. Damnit, pay this man!

Luol Deng started off slow (the plan seems to be running plays for him to start games, and the results haven't been great) but really turned it on, and while I'm sure we won't hear the last of him being soft, he certainly didn't look it on successive drives to end that half, getting 16 of his 20 points. What was really surprising was after having a tough time staying with Josh Howard early (almost embarrassingly so), he was put on Dirk and did a fantastic job. It worked the way Steven Jackson was able to guard him in that famous Mavs-Warriors playoff series, and a credit to Luol in stepping up to that challenge.

Tyrus Thomas didn't start, but was the first big off the bench (kudos to Vinny on that one) when Noah was banished. And I thought that while his numbers (8pts/rebs in 33 minutes) weren't that spectacular, he had a great overall game and was instrumental getting the Bulls out of that early hole. 2 blocks and 2 steals, and was all over the place tracking down loose balls. And with Tyrus isn't not just the type of hustle that's flailing for the cameras, he's so damned long and quick that he can really snag loose balls that others simply can't. He did start the second half guarding Josh Howard (so Deng could take Nowitzki) and held his own there. On offense, had several dunks (it's been a while), and only took one jump shot...a part of his game that we'll eventually have to see again, but it was a good confidence-builder that he was able to do everything else to help the team, and in general just looked like he was ready to go right when he entered the game.

Derrick Rose had the worst half of his young career, ending the first with 2 points and missing several layup attempts that we've gotten accustomed, almost unfairly, to seeing converted. But after a fantastic second, he finished with 16 points, 9 boards, 6 assists and not a single turnover in 42 minutes. Just unbelievable. After this and the preseason game he dominated, it's clear that the Mavs have no answer for him. Kidd obviously can't hang with him on the defensive end, and they have no true backup PG to chase him around, so the Mavs had to rely on bigger players like Jason Terry and Antoine Wright...and especially with his mid-range jumper working Rose was unstoppable even when those defenders played off of him.

If those 4 always played like they did tonight...now that's a core.

Some other notes:

I mentioned the banishment of Noah earlier, he played the first 4 minutes of the game and never returned. I don't think that's entirely fair to him (I mean, he could've come back for at least a stretch in the 2nd half) but he did indeed do nothing in his time outside of two fouls, and just to show how poor the team's start was, they were a -15 in those 4 minutes.
Well it didn't take long for Larry Hughes to remind me (no matter his fancy under-suit for his shoulder disguise) why he sucks. Missed all 4 shots (leaning jumpers, naturally) in the first half. However he did hit two big shots to boost the lead in the second half, a sequence that also included a steal. Hey, if Larry Hughes is only here to take Thabo's dozen minutes a game as a backup guard, I can live with it. It's when he becomes a high-minute player that the lack of efficiency starts to drag down everyone around him. So I'll still stay scared of that. Even with Hughes' return and the signing of Lindsey Hunter (who didn't play), Rose still played over 40 minutes again...so there are minutes to be had. I guess...we'll just have to watch those minutes with eyes partially covered.
Vinny tried his best to blow this game at the end, keeping in Nocioni the final 13 minutes of the game (first with Tyrus as the center, and then subbing out Tyrus before him), even though he had absolutely nothing. I have the feeling VDN was doing the typical coach thing and trusting his veterans to hold onto a lead like grim death, but Noc is the type of player who can lose you a game, especially in one game like tonight where he can't hit shots (0-5). Because beyond that it's about securing rebounds and being smart on both ends...not exactly Nocioni qualities. I mean, good on him for the effort (and he did stick to drives when the shot wasn't working), but I have to hold him accountable for his ways of seducing coaches (and a lot of fans) to the point where he's getting 28 minutes even when really terrible. Maybe it's the hair.
Luckily, the Mavs had no interest in capitalizing, as they only scored 7 points in the final 4 and a half minutes, while the Bulls scored ZERO. They looked so concerned with running clock that they couldn't even get decent shots...on a night where just giving Rose or Gordon the ball and clearing out would've been enough for at least a foul. Honestly, if the Mavs weren't so cold themselves (including Dirk absolutely blowing easy shots in the lane) these past two bullet points could've became the lead for the recap.
And the worst part about those last 4.5 minutes was that it was stuck at 98 points...so every possession included the lame Bulls crowd gasping at the lost chance of a free Big Mac. And when the home team had the ball with under a shot-clock to go, they rightly dribbled out the clock, secured a pretty amazing and thorough come-from-behind victory...and were serenaded with boos because of the loss of free food. Hopefully the guys on the court have a sense of humor about it, because they should know they deserved a great ovation for how they performed tonight.

0 recs | Comment 117 comments | Share

Story-email Email Printer Print

Comments

reading through the game thread and on RealGM

apparently there was a play late where BG blatantly ignored Rose, to the point where they talked it out afterwards. Any details? I obviously missed it.

I’m not as much worried as I am curious…kindof like that they both are damned good and want the ball. Hopefully they get a lot of time to work it out :). I believe the first end-of-quarter possession was handled by Rose, which has been the (good) trend lately.

USE THE SOFTWARE. Actions-> Rec/Flag. Reply to comments with the reply button. Rec good fanposts/fanshots so the crud gets pushed down.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Nov 14, 2008 1:09 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

both players were just inside the mid-court stripe. gordon had the ball and rose was about 15 feet away and towards the wing.

rose called for the ball repeatedly and had his arm up signalling for it, too. gordon looked at him, ignore him, and then dribbled towards the other wing in an apparent decision to go solo. if i recall correctly, gordon made a bad decision out there (poor shot selection?) and the bulls took a timeout shortly thereafter where it looked like they might have talked about it.

Cashing checks and having sex.

by MarketMaker on Nov 14, 2008 1:47 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

The solution to the Rose/Gordon conflict should have been obvious to Vinny.

All he had to do was pull Ben immediately and bring back the ultimate team player, Larry, the distributor, Hughes and the problem would disappear. (along with the Bulls victory).

If you can't answer a man's arguments, all is not lost. You can still call him vile names.
Elbert Hubbard

by Tyrusmancrush on Nov 14, 2008 1:51 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Basically marketmaker is right.

It was hilarious. We were up by like 15 or so, Gordon’s holding the ball at the top of the key. Rose is on his side around 15 feet away yelling at him. He just turns away from Rose, runs into four defenders, and gets completely stuffed on a layup. :P

by Prevenge on Nov 14, 2008 2:56 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

And then Dallas hits a three in transition immediately after

5-point swing, good thing we got 35 out of BG.

by messwiththebull on Nov 14, 2008 8:24 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

We should know by now

It’s not about the W. It’s about the BG PPG…

Think that sequence is very telling.

by BAB-Bass on Nov 15, 2008 4:22 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I noticed that play;

BG had at the top of the key. Rose puts his hands out in the universal “I’m open and the shot clock’s winding down” gesture. Gordon looks away. Rose V cuts, is open again, repeats the universal gesture. Gordon drives into traffic, gets double teamed, and turns it over. Fastbreak by the Mavs followed by a wideopen three pointer by Terry. Rose dribbles past half court, calls timeout. Jogs over to BG as they’re walking ot the bench to have a chat.

I don’t normally go for these kinds of things, but there might be a little tug of war here. BG probably wants to show teams that he can play point – it would raise his value through the roof. Derrick’s a genuine impediment to that.

The poster formerly known as Freethefro.

by MPG on Nov 14, 2008 7:42 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

It's not the first time this year I've seen it happen either

Rose calling for the ball in a less animated manner than last night (perhaps last night’s animated request was out of built-up frustration) and BG brushing him off for the one-on-one matchup. I’m not going to read any more into it than that, but it does make one wonder.

by messwiththebull on Nov 14, 2008 8:23 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

The only thing I am going to read into it.

Is Rose’s natural leadership skills. The fact that he immediately called timeout and went to tell Ben why he made a mistake shows that Rose is not intimidated by the veterans, and is willing to be a leader on the court.

"The whole leverage thing, it's a difficult thing to gauge" -Paxson

by Dionysus2.0 on Nov 14, 2008 9:29 AM CST up reply actions 2 recs

I agree, that was the most interesting part

I mean, it’s still early in the season, and BG did pull the team out from the grave in that game. So I can get why he wanted to keep the ball, especially since it looked like another stretch where it’d be him or nothing. But it’s a new season, Ben, you have help!

USE THE SOFTWARE. Actions-> Rec/Flag. Reply to comments with the reply button. Rec good fanposts/fanshots so the crud gets pushed down.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Nov 14, 2008 9:42 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Gordon could have just waived Rose off or told to him to start motion

Flat out ignoring him was a childish act. Definitely worth monitoring as the season progresses.

by RogersPark Kris on Nov 14, 2008 9:53 AM CST up reply actions 2 recs

Agree with Dionysus

I thought it was a great sign. Rose wasn’t happy and let him know. How many rookies have the confidence to call out a guy who was scoring like Ben was last night? I fall more and more in love with Rose every game.

by BenGo07 on Nov 14, 2008 11:59 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

He's becoming a líder

http://comunidadebulleana.blogspot.com/ - Comunidade Bulleana (O blog dos Bulls em Portugal)

by bull83 on Nov 14, 2008 12:09 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

As a perceived Gordon hater

I have to say I didn’t mind him “blowing off” Rose ONE TIME in the game. I’m not happy with what followed, but BG was the better player that night. Rose is only 10 games in, the team shouldn’t be bowing down to him so much. Gordon was doing plenty out there to take a possession.

Now, the only problem is after you blow off your teammate, you’re kind of forced to make a good play. You can’t pass it off later. So Gordon ended up getting himself caught and letting the defense know he was going to take the shot.

by CJ Bulls on Nov 14, 2008 12:26 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

It's happened on more than one occassion

it was more evident last night because Rose became increasingly animated. That it’s a trend and not an isolated incident is what worries me.

by messwiththebull on Nov 14, 2008 3:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I would love

to know what Derrick said to Ben.

by sue369 on Nov 14, 2008 4:00 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

"How do I get my arms as big as yours?"

by paxson43 on Nov 14, 2008 4:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

lol...don't think so.

by sue369 on Nov 14, 2008 4:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

"They help so much when you drivfe to the hoop!"

“You’re like unstoppable”

by Prevenge on Nov 15, 2008 10:06 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Maybe it's my imagination, or maybe it's the product of having too much time on my hands during

the interminable UC fan promotions, but I get the very distinct impression that BG and Rose don’t exactly adore each other. While the play that Marketmaker describes was the most egregious example, there were several other instances where Gordon ignored Rose. For example, in the first half, with the Bulls down one (46-45, I believe), Gordon got the ball in transtion off of a Dallas miss. He dribbled to the half court circle. At that point, Rose was wide open down the left wing and was calling for the ball. If Gordon had passed to Rose, Rose could have cut to the basket and would have probably found the other Bulls player who was streaking down the right side for an easy dunk. It was a tailor made fast break. But instead of relinquishing the ball, Gordon put his head down at half court and tried to drive into three defenders. You could tell he had simply made the decision he was going to shoot, regardless of what else was happening on the floor. (In fact, when he was standing on the court after the game, Ben told the UC crowd that he had made up his mind to shoot every time he got the ball in the first half!) Of course, he got stripped in the lane.

Moreover, the next time you are at a game, watch closely how the two interact on made free throws. They’ll high five everyone on the court but one another. Purely circumstantial evidence, I know.

After the blatant play in the fourth quarter, Rose actually complained to VDN about the sequence of events.

In any event, it seems obvious to me that Gordon is playing solely for Gordon. And that’s fine, so long as it helps the team. However, based on everything I have heard and read, there is almost no chance that Gordon will be a Bull next year. He’s embittered. So I can’t get too excited when he monopolizes the ball and takes it out of the hands of our young, budding superstar.

LSU 38 OHIO STATE 24 - LSU IS THE NATIONAL CHAMPION AND I AM THE KING OF BOURBON STREET!!

by 1958ChiTown on Nov 14, 2008 12:42 PM CST up reply actions 3 recs

If only Gordon had been paid!!!

He wouldn’t need to be “proving” himself this whole season and would know that he’s part of this team’s future.

Kidding. Kind of.

Viva la nuance! Reading comprehension rules!!!

by tyger1147 on Nov 14, 2008 1:10 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs

What team do you think will pay him?

I can’t think of any that will offer him what he thinks he’s worth.

by 72-10 on Nov 14, 2008 1:12 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

The Bulls?

Viva la nuance! Reading comprehension rules!!!

by tyger1147 on Nov 14, 2008 1:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Rec anyway

Kidding or not.

In a trust with Vinny Del Negro.

by NBA Observer on Nov 14, 2008 1:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

We noticed too

that Derrick complained to VDN at the time out.

by sue369 on Nov 14, 2008 1:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

You summed up my exact thoughts perfectly...

And like Sue, we noticed Derrick complaining to VDN late in the game in front of the scorers table during a dead ball or free throw (can’t remember which), too.

by smash! on Nov 14, 2008 1:28 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I have a similar impression

that Rose isn’t fond of BG and BG may be a bit threatened by Rose, or at least the adulation that Rose is receiving while BG is dropping 20 per night and is the team’s leading scorer still. That’s reading more into it than I’d like but I get that impression every game.

But BG can get away with it with the way he’s playing to an extent. This is still Rose’s team and that is damn well Rose’s ball.

by messwiththebull on Nov 14, 2008 3:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

What we have here is a failure to communicate

“Ben had one of those nights he can have,” said coach Vinny Del Negro. “Ben was hot, so I kept calling his number. When you need points, Ben can give you that. He made shots and got us back in there. And the defense kind of picked up.”

Well, that was sort of the way it went.

Question: Ben, what was your mindset?

Gordon: “Shoot every time. I got fouled a few times, but didn’t get the call. I didn’t let that stop me from being aggressive. I continued to go to the basket and the second half I started to get some calls.”

Question: Ben, the coach said he was calling your number.

Gordon: “I didn’t even know if he was calling my number, actually. I was just going, anyway. I wanted to be aggressive and get something going. We had to do something to get the team going. We were down 25. I figured if we were going to lose this way, I might as well go out shooting all my bullets.”

You’ve got to give the guy credit. He tells it like it is.

http://bullsblogs.typepad.com/

by messwiththebull on Nov 14, 2008 6:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I believe this makes it two times

of Ben being Ben and VDN trying to spin doctor what happened, only to have Ben contradict him a quote later.

by messwiththebull on Nov 14, 2008 6:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Yep.

And I understand the decision to shoot the lights out when you’re down by 20, but what about when you’re up by 10? Not the same…

by smash! on Nov 14, 2008 6:52 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Way to make your coach

look like and idiot.

Gordon’s such a moron.

by BAB-Bass on Nov 15, 2008 4:34 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

from a Ben-biased observer

it’s detailed, anyway:

In the middle of the fourth quarter during the Bulls game against the Dallas Mavericks yesterday, Derrick Rose clapped for the ball and Ben Gordon went ahead not passing to Rose and instead driving the ball in.
The message boarders went on to blow this into a controversy up as evidence of Gordon’s selfishness this season. They have fabricated stories about Del Negro calling a play which Rose called out that Gordon ignored. Stories have also been fabricated about Del Negro nodding agreeingly with Rose that Gordon did something wrong. This misunderstanding of the situation was likely caused by Neil Funk’s and Stacey King’s announcing during this time, where they blasted Gordon for not passing the ball to Rose.
A simple look back at the game on League Pass Broadband tells a significantly different story. Here is what actually happened.
Ben Gordon misses a shot and Tyrus Thomas grabs the rebound. Thomas passes it to Andres Nocioni at the top of the key who gives it to Gordon who resets the Bulls offense. Luol Deng raises up his right hand and calls out a play. Tyrus Thomas runs up to set a screen, but tries to set the screen on the wrong side of Gordon. At this point, Rose starts clapping for the ball on the right wing. Rose is the only player on the right side of the court for the Bulls. Thomas resets to the top of the key, and the Bulls go ahead with the play that Deng had called out. Thomas sets the screen on the correct side this time, and Gordon drives in off the screen. In this play, Dirk was guarding Nocioni downlow. Nocioni cuts to Rose’s side of the floor to try to Dirk away, giving Gordon an open look at the basket. Dirk recognizes that Gordon is driving and blocks off the basket, at which point Gordon passes it to Deng, who misses a close shot.
After the Mavericks score, the Bulls bring the ball down the court and call a timeout. Rose goes over to talk to Gordon and points at a spot on the floor, showing Gordon something. The spot that Rose pointed to at on the floor was on the side that Gordon was on. Then the camera cuts away. When the camera cuts back on to Rose, it shows Rose complaining to the coaching staff. Del Negro, Bernie Bickerstaff, and Del Harris give Rose a blank stare, probably realizing that it is just an NBA player having an ego trip moment and Rose walks away.
It seems that Rose was demanding the ball separate from a call from the coaching staff, just wanting to try to make the play himself. It appears that if anyone was being selfish in this moment, that it was Derrick Rose as Gordon was only going along with the play that the rest of the team was running. It would be pretty hard to believe that the entire team was trying to ignore a call from the coaching staff. In this instance, it appears that Rose wanted to go rogue like Sarah Palin and Gordon stayed on course running the Bulls’ play, called out by Deng

I do not doubt that whatever happened, Stacy/Neil likely made up their own less-correct version of the story.

USE THE SOFTWARE. Actions-> Rec/Flag. Reply to comments with the reply button. Rec good fanposts/fanshots so the crud gets pushed down.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Nov 14, 2008 3:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Ben biased observer

“Del Negro, Bernie Bickerstaff, and Del Harris give Rose a blank stare, probably realizing that it is just an NBA player having an ego trip moment and Rose walks away.”-this really bias.
What kind of stare should they give to Rose?
Can he read coaches mindes?

General manager needs the ability to foretell what is going to happen tomorrow,next week, next month, and next year. And to have the ability afterwards to explain why it didn't happen.
Sir Paxdorf.

by Azabullsfan on Nov 14, 2008 3:56 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I wonder what if this is a boilerplate explanation

for the previous instances where this occurred as well.

by messwiththebull on Nov 14, 2008 4:00 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I type like a monkey.

by messwiththebull on Nov 14, 2008 4:00 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I'd like to hear

a Derrick biased observer or even the coaches view point.

by sue369 on Nov 14, 2008 4:08 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

That poster loses all credibility

when he says this:

“In this play, Dirk was guarding Nocioni downlow. Nocioni cuts to Rose’s side of the floor to try to Dirk away, giving Gordon an open look at the basket. Dirk recognizes that Gordon is driving and blocks off the basket, at which point Gordon passes it to Deng, who misses a close shot.”

Actually,

LSU 38 OHIO STATE 24 - LSU IS THE NATIONAL CHAMPION AND I AM THE KING OF BOURBON STREET!!

by 1958ChiTown on Nov 14, 2008 5:09 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Actually, I can't finish posts. .

I was just going to say that the word “pass” is a very charitable description of the way that Deng got the ball on that play.

LSU 38 OHIO STATE 24 - LSU IS THE NATIONAL CHAMPION AND I AM THE KING OF BOURBON STREET!!

by 1958ChiTown on Nov 14, 2008 5:13 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

All credibility?

So, because he said that wrong (and I didn’t see the play), it absolutely negates, or at least calls into question, everything up to that point? I’m not sure about that.

Viva la nuance! Reading comprehension rules!!!

by tyger1147 on Nov 14, 2008 6:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

No, he loses credibility because his entire description of event is completely false.

See my post below.

by smash! on Nov 14, 2008 10:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Tempted to que up the DVR...

Because this isn’t the sequence I remember or was commenting on. I was at the game and remember the play where Rose called for the ball and Gordon ignored him and then went on to get his shot rejected by 3 guys very differently.

Could be talking about several different plays here. Maybe I’ll investigate… especially since I’m curious what King/Funk said about the situation.

by smash! on Nov 14, 2008 6:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I recall that sequence as well

it is hard to refute this guy if you suspect he is referring to a different play. I don’t recall Rose being blatantly denied the ball twice last night but I don’t have a replay available.

by messwiththebull on Nov 14, 2008 6:51 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

The format of this post may clinch me the Asshole of the Day award

but here is the sequence as it was commented upon in real-time from last night:

Ben is ignoring Derrick.
by Azabullsfan on Nov 13, 2008 10:50 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

coaches need to tell Ben what’s up
by gobulls1124 on Nov 13, 2008 10:51 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

And Derrick is letting him know I love it
by Option27 on Nov 13, 2008 10:51 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I like how Rose went to Gordon to talk to him about it. Rose understands that selfish play is not winning play…that was great!
by Dionysus2.0 on Nov 13, 2008 10:52 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Ben Gordon should be fisted for not giving Rose the ball when he asks for it. Im glad Rose went over to Gordon afterward and talked to him. he’s a leader.
by Playboy_Bull on Nov 13, 2008 10:51 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Um, did you mean to say “fisted”?
by arjoseph on Nov 13, 2008 11:51 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

It would appear he did. Nasty.
by Sports2 on Nov 14, 2008 12:20 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Rose wanted that ball badly I don’t want to get angry, but seriously BG. If you can’t get your shot then pass the freaking ball to Rose.
by Ozzie Montana on Nov 13, 2008 10:51 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Gordon needs to give the ball to Rose Why doesn’t he understand that?
by bull83 on Nov 13, 2008 10:51 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

lol Gordon! That was hilarious.
I’m sure that’ll change later this season, but that was pretty funny. [I’m calm, it’s a 13-point game. :P]
by Prevenge on Nov 13, 2008 10:51 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

That was a 5-point swing, BG. /Doug Collins
by messwiththebull

by messwiththebull on Nov 14, 2008 6:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

So I just watched the play "described" above on my DVR and it's so very factually incorrect.

I was at the game last night and I saw it live, but didn’t have the angles or commentary so I couldn’t really disagree with the post above when I initially read it. It did sound twisted to me though so I was compelled. And now that I can rewind time it’s fair to say that labeling the commenter “Ben-biased” is being polite. (Are we sure that BG’s “manslave” isn’t behind the post?)

Anyways, I’ll just retell the story pointing out the blatant inaccuracies in the above depiction of events.

- The possession begins with 4:50 left in the game and the Bulls up 15. BG has the ball and tries to cross over his defender and a help defender on the right side of the key. He did a triple crossover then stepped back and shot a long 2. Brick. TT rebounded and swung it to the top of the key, where BG was (Rose was crashing the boards).

- Noce and Deng held up their right hands simultaneously- clearly the play call came from VDN. It was a clear-out where everyone set up on the far left side, with BG at the top and Rose isolated all alone on the right with just his defender (Kidd, who he burned all night) within 12 feet of him. Looking at this I can’t believe how wide open he is. I’ve been waiting for them to call isolation plays for him and that is what clearly happened. Everything suggests the call was to isolate Rose. (BG was probably the second option if Rose wasn’t able to get open, but that clearly was not the case.)

- Everyone stood waiting for BG to pass it. He dribbled the ball for 8 seconds, before the still wide-open Rose clapped his hands. BG continued to ignore Rose dribbling for 5 more seconds before TT realized BG was gravitating towards him (to the left) and was not about to pass it to Rose. TT stepped up to set a pick and BG drove left where the other 4 defenders where waiting and where they all promptly collapsed on him. At the prospect of having his shot blocked by the entire team, he flailed forward to the ground and threw it to where Deng was. Deng wasn’t there anymore but it ricocheted off Howard and bounced to the cutting Deng who- with the shot clock at 3- had to throw up a pretty tangled layup which missed badly. The Mavs ran with it and hit a quick 3; 12 pt game with 4:30 to go.

- At no point did Gordon have an open shot at or a clear path to the basket. Quite the opposite. The post above even says (or I think he’s suggesting) Gordon’s shot was blocked off the basket, but he clearly didn’t even shoot the ball. (Did this guy really watch the reply?)

- As Rose walked back to the bench during the timeout the 4 coaches opened their huddle towards him and gestured to him. Two of them said something to him- they all had an expression as if they were asking him a question. He turned to them briefly since they engaged him and said something short- maybe 8 words max- and I swear the last few words were, “I did, that’s what I just said.” He then turned to the bench with a blank look to get his gatorade.

- My opinion is that the coaches asked him about the play and about what he said to BG and he said he had just talked to him about it. The last thing it looked like was that Rose was “having an ego trip moment.” And I don’t know where he got the sh*t about Rose demanding the ball trying to make a play for himself. If you know anything about basketball, you could see that 4 of the 5 Bulls were running an isolation play for Rose and BG was the one with other plans.

And don’t ever compare Rose to Sarah Palin. ;)

by smash! on Nov 14, 2008 10:32 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

As for the comment about Stacy/Neil "blasting BG"...

…and making up their own less-correct version, well I not surprisingly that’s off-base, too. I agreed with them completely and was happy to hear them telling it like it is. It was a Steve Stone moment. Here’s what they said:

“And Rose is telling Ben he wants the ball. Ben wants to go into attack mode and then had it stripped away. Put back up by Deng, bad shot, rebound Dirk. You want the ball in Derrick Rose’s hands. Yep. Terry splashes a 3 in. That’s absolutely right. Right now this is where you want the ball in the point guards hands so he can make a play. Ben needs to play off of him. And you can see Derrick Rose telling Gordon now "you didn’t recognize what we were trying to do there.”

That was all they said.

Blasting? Hardly. Telling it like it is? Precisely.

by smash! on Nov 14, 2008 10:38 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Great summary....not much left to add but I will throw in a few tidbits.

I was being driven to madness in the first half watching Larry Hughes play at a level even much lower than the bar I set for him which can be defined as a successful LH game would be where he is glued to the bench for at least 45 minutes or else his teamates were somehow able to keep the ball out of his hands as much as possible while he is on the court. But than at a key moment in the second half when it appeared the Mavs were going to make a run, he hit a 2 followed by a big 3 (on an ill advised shot), than got a steal, threw a great lead pass to Rose, who missed the reverse layup but a hustling Tyrus jammed in the rebound in a resounding fashion, reminding us Tyrus sycophants of why we first fell in love with him. That was a 7 point swing in a little over a minute, so kudos to Larry and also kudos to Vinnie, who managed to keep him from playing for the rest of the game, thus almost insuring a Bulls victory.

Ironically, Thabo rang up a dnp after having his best game of the season and Noah continued his mystifying inability to keep a stiff like Aaron Gray getting more minutes than him, a feat that would almost seem impossible for a former college player of the year.

I have been very critical of Ben Gordon in the past, but tonight he was sensational, taking over when no one else seemed capable of creating any offense, and fearlessly converting acrobatic drives into the heart of the Dallas bigs all night long but almost just as impressive was his solid defense and floor leadership, which I think is a result of realizing playing along side of DR could make him a bundle of money when his new contract is negotiated, and if it isn’t with the Bulls, than Paxson should be canned and Riensdorf should retire to Scottsdale. Rose’s 2nd half performance was on a level with All Star first team superstars on a good night.

Tyrus played to his strengths and outhustled every Maverick. If he recognizes what his athleticism can bring to a team, without having to light up the scoreboard, this could still be a fun season for him and us fans. After tonight, I have decided to climb off the ledge and once again hop on the Tyrus bandwagon which should be the 4th float in the Bulls Rose parade, coming right after the Gordon express and the Luol Safari featuring the Black Panther who attacked his prey relentlessly, leaving the Mavs a collection of dead meat and Nowitzki thinking of buying a one way ticket back to the Rhineland after his woeful misfirings.

If you can't answer a man's arguments, all is not lost. You can still call him vile names.
Elbert Hubbard

by Tyrusmancrush on Nov 14, 2008 1:16 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

Great recap, everything was spot on.

Especially that last part about the fans booing. I seriously cannot take it anymore, those fat bastards are all sitting in their seats golf clapping through a great comeback win until they started to approach 100 pts, then everyone stands up and starts going crazy. What an embarrasment. Even for me, personally, just sitting at home, it ruins the game. I can only imagine how the players feel. The Bulls will probably never put an end to the stupid thing cause they think it makes fans happy, but they really should. Combine the booing at the end of wins with lifeless crowds during the games and I think we have one of the worst home court advantages around. Which is a shame for a city that takes such pride in their sports teams.

by Juiceboxjerry on Nov 14, 2008 1:17 AM CST reply actions 1 recs

I feel a little sad about the United Center crowd;

it seems very tame, very upper crusty. Maybe that’s just because the camera always catches the fans around the bench; I hope so. There was one play where Rose pushed the ball, found Deng as a trailer, and he buried the jumper. Just a beautiful play capping a great run by the Bulls. Rose is windmilling his arms afterwards, exorting the crowd…and they’re just kinda clapping blithely. I don’t give a crap what socioeconomic class the fans are from, I just want them to be excited by hoops.

I still the old stadium. Or maybe I miss the fans that went to the old stadium. Probably both.

Somebody who goes to games – is it as quiet as it seems on TV?

The poster formerly known as Freethefro.

by MPG on Nov 14, 2008 7:35 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

really

It would be nice to see some sweaty pits on the oxford shirts when the lower level fans raise both arms in the air. The old stadium had this all the time. Perhaps sitting on top of eachother played a bigger climate role?

In a trust with Vinny Del Negro.

by NBA Observer on Nov 14, 2008 8:24 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

LOL

It’s a culture change, to be sure, though the city itself has changed a lot in the last decade. From a pure hoops perspective, though, I want the UC to be a true homecourt advantage. Loud fans, tough place to play – like in Sactown or Golden State.

The poster formerly known as Freethefro.

by MPG on Nov 14, 2008 8:36 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

is it too much

to ask the marketing department to come up with 15,000 red “Love It Live” shirts?? :-)

by NormVanBeer on Nov 14, 2008 8:48 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I'm drafting a letter to the UC crew:

Dear Sirs,

Less hoopla. More hoops.

Sincerely yours,

BaB

The poster formerly known as Freethefro.

by MPG on Nov 14, 2008 8:52 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

heh, not going to happen, but I obviously agree

two awful points: After the Bulls called that first timeout and were getting destroyed, out comes the tic-tac-toe game. I wish they just canceled distractions and we could all focus on being angry :)

Secondly, some big old clown in the row behind me barreled into us trying to get a free t-shirt. argh.

USE THE SOFTWARE. Actions-> Rec/Flag. Reply to comments with the reply button. Rec good fanposts/fanshots so the crud gets pushed down.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Nov 14, 2008 9:44 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

forgot to add

somebody’s going to fall off a balcony one of these days because of those t-shirts.

USE THE SOFTWARE. Actions-> Rec/Flag. Reply to comments with the reply button. Rec good fanposts/fanshots so the crud gets pushed down.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Nov 14, 2008 9:44 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

yea... i've said it before if they show the camera up to the higheer seats u'll see much more excitement

few years ago, when BG and Deng were rookies, one of my firends won some box seats to the opening night game aganist the Nets. We were all in the box screaming and cheering after every play. And the people around us were just sitting there eating their food, ocassionaly participating in the half time show. I think the biggest cheer from the folks who were in the better seats and other box seats came when in half time, the girl on the unicycle blanced like 15 bowls on her head. It’s real sad to see that, especially in that game, where our young (it was a usable and understandable term then) fought the Nets to 2 overtimes, but came up short in the end. But hardly any excitement from the “fans”.

It aint easy bein' Piatkowski

by Yibs on Nov 14, 2008 8:42 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I was at the Cavs game last Saturday

and it got pretty loud that night. I think it just depends who the opponent is and/or how the team is doing. Because on TV, I’ve definitely noticed how quite it seems as well.

Ironically, most of the “ooohhs” and “ahhhs” that evening, came from LeBron’s several moves and shots. Well, I guess that isn’t too ironic now that I think about it.

by NormVanBeer on Nov 14, 2008 8:51 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

season ticket holder response

I agree that most of the fans at the games are getting less rambunctious. This is the third year I’ve had tickets, and each season the stadium gets progressively quieter. Last year at the beginning of the season the fans were ready to rock, but as the team let us down, each game got progressively less fun. Its tough to get up for them when they’re blowing 18 point leads night after night! There was one game last year where I left in the third quarter because they were down by about 30 points. I just couldn’t take it anymore! That was probably the point when the fans gave up on them last year. The players just didn’t seem to care. It was very frustrating. I almost didn’t renew this season, and a know of about 20 people in my section alone who didn’t renew either. Why spend $2500 per ticket when the players don’t care? And those are cheap seats!!!

Then came the number 1 pick! Derek Rose!!!! I regained my excitement and renewed anyway. So far I’m happy I did… I’m still optimistic about this team and the future. But it is going to take some time to get the fans who lost trust after watching the players give up last season to get back up on the bandwagon. A couple more games like last night will help the place get louder again!

by 72-10 on Nov 14, 2008 9:05 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Good to hear;

and it will be better to hear those cheers again. :)

The poster formerly known as Freethefro.

by MPG on Nov 14, 2008 9:13 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I guess my philosophy of fandom is different.

I don’t see the team as there for me, such that I hold them to a standard and bail when they don’t meet it. I see me as there for the team, such that maybe my cheering (and the cheering of those around me) can give them some energy and encouragement. If you go to your son’s basketball game and he or one of his friends makes a bonehead play, or they’re in a shooting slump, or they’re getting blown out in the 2nd quarter, are you booing? Are you sitting there quietly? Are you even contemplating leaving? No, you’re shouting encouragement, trying to get them focused (after all, they know how crappy they’re playing), trying to will them to play better. Any player out there would rather have the latter than the former. You can say, sure, but they’re my son! Fine. We don’t love Tyrus Thomas in the same way we love little Jimmy. But that doesn’t mean the situation is any different. If we expect encouragement to do something in one instance, why not the other? The Bulls are human, emotional beings too.

That’s how you get a homecourt advantage. It’s about attitude.

by arjoseph on Nov 14, 2008 10:05 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

thanks Norm

fuuuuuudge that. The team’s there to entertain me, when they don’t I hate them :)

I booed Paxson’s picture when they showed it during one of the timeouts.

USE THE SOFTWARE. Actions-> Rec/Flag. Reply to comments with the reply button. Rec good fanposts/fanshots so the crud gets pushed down.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Nov 14, 2008 10:34 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Right on

I worked hard and paid to be there… If they suck they’re going to hear it from me… But I’ll also be the first one to cheer when Rose slashes in for a layup! I even cheer for Gray when he does something good! (every 1 out of 5 plays, I have to yell the other 4)

It ain’t college or HS, Riensdorf is making a fortune off this team and all the players are millionarses…. and I’m paying their salaries so they better damn well play their asses off. Last year really pissed me off!!!! But I can start to see them learning to play with Rose. My prediction is that by January we’ll be getting a lot louder at the UC. Until then they’re still going to upset us from time to time.

by 72-10 on Nov 14, 2008 12:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

"But that doesn't mean the situation is any different."

Think that through.

The poster formerly known as Freethefro.

by MPG on Nov 14, 2008 10:46 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

If Jimmy's got grit,

then I’m sure Paxson can get him at least a 5 year 40 + million dollar deal.

"Worker bees can leave.
Even drones can fly away.
The Queen is their slave."

by jpchi on Nov 14, 2008 11:23 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Jimmy takes a mean charge and/or flops all over the place.

So I’m sure you’re right.

by arjoseph on Nov 14, 2008 11:43 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

"Any" is too strong a word. OK.

And sure, a middle or high schooler will be more susceptible to emotional swings than an adult multi-millionaire. But as much as we want to dehumanize these guys and demand “professionalism” from them, they’re still humans playing an emotional game, feeding off of energy, feeling flow and momentum. Just like a ball player at any level, they will play better with an energized supportive crowd than with a hostile downer crowd. Contributing to that hostile environment is inexcusable in my book. You’re gaining absolutely nothing by booing (except maybe catharsis), but you’re potentially gaining something by not booing, and potentially gaining more by cheering and staying positive. That’s all I’m saying.

Alright, now I actually have to earn my salary.

by arjoseph on Nov 14, 2008 11:49 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

nah

I don’t think the players really care enough to where it impacts peformance. It just makes one feel better to think they do. Besides, whenever they’re not in the UC it’s usually to an empty house, given how NBA attendance is (and the Bulls not being a draw in the first place).

And I disagree that you gain nothing by booing. It’s very self-entertaining, I’m literally smiling while I do it. Maybe I’d feel different if I sat closer.

USE THE SOFTWARE. Actions-> Rec/Flag. Reply to comments with the reply button. Rec good fanposts/fanshots so the crud gets pushed down.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Nov 14, 2008 12:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Well, agree to disagree. "When in Rome."

by arjoseph on Nov 15, 2008 11:54 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

...

I thought the UC was surprisingly loud many times this year.

Especially when Rose would do something spectacular…you would always hear “oohhhh” or something, which was never heard before with guys like Hinrich and Gordon.

I thought they got really loud when Rose dunked on Barbosa

And when Deng hit the jumper last night to put the Bulls up by 1 for the first time.

by Half-Life on Nov 14, 2008 3:08 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

They need to add the Big Mac loving Bulls fans

to those ‘Love -It-LIve’ commercials. Right after those two old dudes are arguing about “Who the 6th man is”, we can see some obese guy screaming “When they score 100, I get a free Bic Mag! I love the Bulls and free shit!”

by RogersPark Kris on Nov 14, 2008 7:52 AM CST up reply actions 1 recs

The crowd has become quite fair-weather

Because of last year, no one is willing to be a rambunctious fan, and are more content to just sit there and drink their beer and eat their 5 dollar nachos. I remember going to games during their first playoff run in 2005, and people went bananas after every game. I went to Games 1 and 2 of the Heat series in 2007, and it felt like the old home court advantage was back. If the Bulls can put together a good season, the loud fans will come back.

"I’m gonna rise up, gonna kick a little ass. Gonna kick some ass in the USA. Gonna climb a mountain, gonna sew a flag, gonna fly on an eagle. I’m gonna kick some butt, gonna drive a big truck. I’m gonna rule this world. I’m gonna kick some ass. I’m gonna rise up, gonna kick a little ass. Rock, flag, and eagle!"

by Ozzie Montana on Nov 14, 2008 12:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

You guys have no idea

There is a reason why I can’t stand any Los Angeles (Where I live) team.

Worst fans of all time. You go to a Dodger game, it’s “The Wave” the whole time. Angeles games are a place where OC girls and boys all like to “hang out”.

Lakers fans . . . Ummm, even worse. You can barely even get a ticket cause they’re all owned by the rich and famous. Nothing gets the crowd going unless Kobe is on his way to a 50 point night.

And in between action is even worse. Just the Laker girls.

Clippers, well you don’t have to say much there.

And there is a reason why we don’t have a football team.

LA fans only care when their teams are winning.

I love Chicago because it’s the exact opposite. You guys are just used to it.

Trust me on this one.

Oh and I’ve visited other cities as well. Chicago is top notch

by Option27 on Nov 14, 2008 1:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I'm down in South Florida

and I agree wholeheartedly. The big mac things is a little ridiculous, but if you ever sit in the stands at a heat/dolphins/marlins game…. oh man, it’s horrendous.

by kig on Nov 14, 2008 2:15 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

One thing you didn't mention

was Ben Gordon refusing to give up the ball to Derrick Rose when he was calling for it several times. I’m not sure what, but something is going on there. Those two guys are having a power struggle of some sort. And it is absolutely no coincidence that all of a sudden BG is driving to the basket like crazy as you stated in your post. It feels to me like Ben is trying to rise up and prove that he is capable of doing the same kind of things that Derrick is doing. He was never the type of player that would go into attack mode like that, now all of a sudden everything is a drive.

by Juiceboxjerry on Nov 14, 2008 1:27 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

he was that type of player in college and i'm sure that was a big part of the reason the bulls picked him.

his last few years he has gotten more and more perimeter happy. maybe he’s just seeing all the easy success that rose is having going to the bucket and is smart enough to follow suit. i’m not ready to think there is any issue there other than a point guard who needs the ball and a shooting guard who wants it.

Cashing checks and having sex.

by MarketMaker on Nov 14, 2008 1:52 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Yea, I know he was like that in college

but he’s never been that way with us. I totally agree, I think he’s watching Rose and kind of mimicking his game a bit.

by Juiceboxjerry on Nov 14, 2008 1:55 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Which is a great thing

Hopefully Rose picks up some of his shooting!!!

by CJ Bulls on Nov 14, 2008 12:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I had mentioned this...

To Jaina after the first couple of games(we’re related)… there is definitely something going on there. Hopefully they can work it out, but it’s hard to argue with a motivated Ben Gordon – as long as it doesn’t get out of control in terms of a rift between the two. I haven’t done research to back it up, but it seemed to me that Rose and BG hadn’t been paired together on the court very often pre-Hinrich thumb injury – I theorized that, given how BG had reacted in the way we’re talking about while they were on the court together that maybe the coaching staff was avoiding pairing them on the court together for this reason, although you could definitely argue that they were worried about defense. That thankfully hasn’t been a problem, at least on BG’s end, as he has been much improved this year.

Another note on Rose, and I hope this trend continues… that’s back-to-back games for him with 10 and 9 boards, respectively. Maybe this is just a function of his increased minutes of late, but it’s an unexpected(to me, I didn’t get to watch him much outside of the tournament) bonus on top of all the other things he does so well.

Didn’t get to watch the game last night(must switch to DirectTV – from Wisconsin) but it sounds like a big win for a team that is hopefully starting to come together a little bit. I hope we can build on this!

by JacksonM on Nov 14, 2008 9:44 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Juiceboxjerry, Austin Powers appreciates the plug referring to Bulls fans as Fat Bastards.

Vince Lombardi said “Winning isn’t everything it’s the only thing.”

It is obvious that many of these beer guzzling, nacho munching, pizza stuffing, grossly obese hot dog hogs who lamely parade as Bulls fans believe in a different slogan…“It is not important whether the Bulls win or lose, it’s not even how they play the game. Getting a free Big Mac is THE ONLY THING!”

They should all get a coronary and pass their tickets on to real fans before they depart to hog heaven, a mystic place filled with an infinite number of gut busting fast food joints where every shot produces a triple digit win.

In defense of Ben hogging the ball instead of deferring to Rose in the waning moments, I don’t think it was done selfishly. I feel that has been his role and responsibility ever since he’s been here and it’s going to take some time to adjust to the reality that there is a new sheriff in town and the best he can be is his chief deputy.

If you can't answer a man's arguments, all is not lost. You can still call him vile names.
Elbert Hubbard

by Tyrusmancrush on Nov 14, 2008 1:41 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

LoLoL

ya’ll need to lighten up a bit. the lack of mac getting boos is hilarious

by Protocol on Nov 14, 2008 1:44 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

Good Night everyone. Instead of counting sheep

I will dream of perfect ally oop passes from Rose to Thomas until I drift off, after which I hope the dream will be that I am trapped in a harem of Tropicana swimsuit models who haven’t seen a man for over a year. If the excitement results in a massive myocardial infarction, at least I can die with a smile on my face. My wife can tell everyone I seemed very content when I passed.

If you can't answer a man's arguments, all is not lost. You can still call him vile names.
Elbert Hubbard

by Tyrusmancrush on Nov 14, 2008 1:56 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

FREE BIG MAC

Is the dumbest shit. The things costs about a 20th of your ticket, and you’re going to boo (and an extremely large contingent of goofballs did) because this team doesn’t get you a free one?

The Bulls just put those in attendance through arguable the most exciting type of experience possible in a sporting event. They came back from way down to win the game, the ultimate low to high, and get booed?!?! Just as there is a difference between Wrigley fans and Cub fans, there are Bulls fans and mush-heads.

As for the game, the recap is pretty spot on about the 4 stars. Tyrus played within himself
for the first time since opening night.
Luol looked great finishing drives, especially after that gorgeous Derrick Rose bounce pass. Ooh my was that ever pretty.
The goat was definitely Noah. His defense in the first few minutes was worse than pedestrian and he deserved the benching. He was playing terribly.

"That was a great play by me."-Champ Bailey

by Just got mugged by Pete Myers on Nov 14, 2008 2:15 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

What if we ask our proud sponsor to stop this "Free BigMac" action?

It will bring to pluses:

1)We won’t hear any boos after great wins like yesterday.

2)Bulls fans will stay liiiitle bit healthier.

by Azabullsfan on Nov 14, 2008 10:51 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Finally, we're seeing...

…what should be the Bulls core group performing up to par.

DRose is doing it all, Gordon is making shots (take note, not just hoisting them up but making them), TT is going for rebs and garbage/hustle points while Deng had a very solid outing yet again! Guess his slump’s over.

Noce didn’t have a great game and neither did Noah but Noah’s seem to be more disappointing. Nocioni went 0-5 after two great games while Noah just seems to be spiralling down.

by PatBull on Nov 14, 2008 4:12 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

I was so upset

I was watching the game (DVR, and taking breaks here and there to get work done around the house—can’t stand commercials) and saw us look like we were going to lose by 60 pts after the first 7-8 minutes, then we looked in complete control…but with like 7 minutes left, the DVR ended as the game ran long and I didn’t catch on…..

My fault.

Ben Gordon is playing like an All Star….if he keeps this up, and I know there’s still 3 months to go, but if he keeps this up he better make the all star team. I mean WOW WOW WOW yesterday. His D has improved, having Rose as another offensive threat has made Ben pick his spots to score rather than having Ben carry the load for 31 minutes of court time….

The Bulls guards and Luol Deng (who was GREAT yesterday) really made Dallas look slow and very old. I hope we play with that kind of energy the rest of the year.

Tyrus THomas even looked much more controlled….I don’t know how many minutes he got, but when he was out there, he looked more like the preseason Tyrus, albeit with less minutes….he didn’t rush the game and took his time and was effective.

Dampier was the 2nd C in a row to demolish us. I know Drew by the 3rd quarter started to play a little defense, but Drew’s D early was awful….he’s not a C I know, but he should do a better job than that….

Larry in the 3rd quarter starting to hit some big shots, but when he first got time in the 2nd the Bulls were in the midst of their big comeback run, and Larry starting jacking up shots way too early, that should have cost us the momentum, but didn’t luckily. I thought that was a terrible time to put a rusty jacker up when everything was going our way.

It’s the first real regular season game in years where Jason Kidd hasn’t had a “best game of the season” night against us…..Rose destroyed him in that matchup.

Rick Carlisle is a coach I’ve always respected, but I agreed with Funk and King that him trying to make the Mavs a more uptempo team is ridiculous when they have a guy who cannot be guarded in any tempo in Dirk……

THe Mavs aren’t using Dirk properly and that’s a big reason why they suck…..and I don’t get Josh Howard…..he’s more aggravating than Luol because he’s a ridiculously awesome talent, but seems to disappear more often than not.

If Kidd doesn’t work for the Mavs, I say bench him, focus on Dirk, their true superstar (Kidd is a hall of famer and was a superstar, don’t get me wrong) but he’s past his prime. Jason Terry can do enough to cover for Kidd in their offense. I would try a Terry-Wright-Howard-Nowitzki-Dampier with Green-Bass-Diop-George and Kidd in the backup plan. Kidd’s not working well with Dirk, and Kidd’s a goner after this season, so play with what you got. The Mavs are too talented to be as bad as they were yesterday. While Kidd is one helluva passer still, his D isn’t what it was and on a team with porous D to begin with, that’s a huge problem….

by majoyenrac on Nov 14, 2008 8:03 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

Howard's problems

He shoots well early with jumpers. He needs to close games by attacking the rim. If he gets forced into jump shots late he will miss most of them down the stretch. Getting to the rim will get him higher percentage shots and more free throw attempts.

In a trust with Vinny Del Negro.

by NBA Observer on Nov 14, 2008 8:44 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I'll write to him.

The Game chose him !

by Diabolo on Nov 14, 2008 8:54 AM CST up reply actions 1 recs

Great point on Dampier

That was the one thing not mentioned in the game report that struck me. Eric Dampier had another huge game from the 5 position. The fact Noah got benched and Aaron Grey really isn’t fast enough to play even center in the NBA is the overlying problem of this homestand. On the nights where Ben and Lou are cold…. Rose will get his….. but their has to be some scoring from the 4 or 5 positions. Maybe Drew Gooden will look better as his ankle gets better but I’d settle for about 8 pts from Tyrus and Noah a game on tip dunks or trailing on Rose’s fast breaks.

by Jscho316 on Nov 14, 2008 9:40 AM CST up reply actions 1 recs

i admit i was one of the booers for the big macs... but it was a good game to see

It aint easy bein' Piatkowski

by Yibs on Nov 14, 2008 8:35 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

You should boo

They didn’t score in the last four minutes!

by 72-10 on Nov 14, 2008 12:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I've never heard of a fan booing a team that won a game before

A win is a win, this site is for your venting purposes. Can you imagine if that game was on national TV? I’d be embarrassed to be grouped together with those Grabowskis.

by Ozzie Montana on Nov 14, 2008 12:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I just mean they sucked

on the offensive side of the ball the last four minutes…. they need to step it up at the end of the game. If Dallas were the team they were two years ago we would have lost this one.

by 72-10 on Nov 14, 2008 12:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

We should have been at the line in the final four minutes

We attacked for most of the rest of the game after the first 6 minutes in the 1st quarter. We stopped attacking and tried to protect.

Just a few slashes would have put this argument to rest along with the appetites of the grabowskis.

In a trust with Vinny Del Negro.

by NBA Observer on Nov 14, 2008 1:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

That's been a problem of this team for how many years now?

It’s not going to change automatically. If Lu, Gordon, and Rose are all that aggressive on offense, and Tyrus is running all over the place grabbing loose balls on a consistent basis, then we have ourselves a potent 4 quarter offense. Until then, this offense smacks of riding the hot hand of Gordon with the magic of Rose, and marginal contributions from everyone else.

by Ozzie Montana on Nov 14, 2008 7:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

This game shows why Tyrus can still be an impact player:

even though he didn’t shoot well or often, he positively impacted the game with his athleticism and hustle. He played within himself. I think we still need to aquire front-line talent and size, but there’s no reason to giveup on him unless he brings that other talent in a trade.

The poster formerly known as Freethefro.

by MPG on Nov 14, 2008 8:39 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

6 turnovers

I can’t remember the last time we had so few turnovers.

I thought this was Ben Gordon’s best game as a pro. He did exactly what he has to do and exactly what he is capable of doing which is using his shoulders and upper body once he’s past his man to square himself for the right type of shot IN THE PAINT. BG was attacking the rim at will and I loved every single one of them. Typically, Ben’s feet are ahead of his shoulders so he ends up off balance and forcing up shots that are tipped or outright rejected. Not last night. This happened once an it appears it was on the play where he didn’t pass to Rose. Needless to say, most of the attempts were just pretty to watch. He blew past his man, made the right cut in the paint, and squared his upper body to put up the best shot attempt. BG had 18 2pt FG attempts. Awesome!

Rose was showing me some Lebron-esque swagger last night. Once he started getting buckets on Kidd his body language started speaking for him. He thought he could get anywhere he wanted with the basketball. He appeared to be imitating Lebron from the other night. He had the ball, we had a small lead, and Rose wanted to make that lead even bigger.

We’re really good when Rose and Gordon have these attack instincts. We could be living at the line as a team if Gordon and Rose can penetrate and put our opponents in the penalty early in quarters.

Down the stretch we would have secured the lead if we could rebound. Gooden, Thomas, and Noc couldn’t get it done on the glass. When Thomas checked out it didn’t get any better. We could have used Noah here, but the banishment to the bench, that doesn’t make any sense, appears to rule the day with Vinny.

In a trust with Vinny Del Negro.

by NBA Observer on Nov 14, 2008 8:42 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

we only had 3 turnovers

over about 3 1/2 quarters, too. which is pretty crazy.

by Jaina on Nov 14, 2008 8:50 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Agreed,

I’m enjoying the Rose/Gordon backcourt. And frankly, BG’s more than held his own, defensively. It’s Rose who’s struggled, as we knew he would, but with his tools and desire there’s no reason to think he won’t be tenacious on that end as well.

It’s a big deal to have an undersized interior. It’s not that big a deal to have an undersized backcourt.

The poster formerly known as Freethefro.

by MPG on Nov 14, 2008 8:56 AM CST up reply actions 1 recs

Well

If Gordon continues to play D it’s not that big a deal on the undersized backcourt. Gordon’s built like a tank too, which folks never ever mention, but that allows him to at least stop the big SG’s from driving…he just hasn’t always focused on D.

by majoyenrac on Nov 14, 2008 9:47 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Looking across the NBA landscape

there aren’t a lot of stud 6’7 SGs around anymore. Other than Joe Johnson and an aging Kobe, it appears Gordon might be able to get away with more defensive matchups as the years pass.

by CJ Bulls on Nov 14, 2008 12:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

And

he played Joe Johnson pretty well.

The poster formerly known as Freethefro.

by MPG on Nov 14, 2008 1:52 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

not gordon's best

but one of his best. I think he scored mid forties 2 year ago.

by chicago-homesick-blues on Nov 14, 2008 10:13 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

he scored 49 against milwaukee

but remember that redd scored 51, i’d say that last night’s effort could have been his best all around game.

by Jaina on Nov 14, 2008 10:21 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I'm not sure if those other games had such a limited reliance on 3-pointers

USE THE SOFTWARE. Actions-> Rec/Flag. Reply to comments with the reply button. Rec good fanposts/fanshots so the crud gets pushed down.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Nov 14, 2008 10:35 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

also a good point.

by Jaina on Nov 14, 2008 10:45 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I'd say it's his best other than the Charlotte or Milwaukee games

He was attacking the rim…like Derrick Rose! I think someone else pointed it out, but playing next to Rose has seemed to ignite some aggression in Gordon. There were some drives where Dallas didn’t even guard him, it seemed like they were confused as to why Ben Gordon was driving.

by Ozzie Montana on Nov 14, 2008 12:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Conclude

A team is supposed to play and win through its strengths, and that is what the Bulls did last night. The players that we look for consistency (Rose, Gordon, Deng) were consistent.

Overall, I am proud of the play last night. Here are the highlights of pride:
1) consistency from the top 3
2) Tyrus played well. He didnt try to do too much. He stayed in the game, and ended with 8 and 8. This is where Tyrus should be.
3) only 6 turnovers. Rose and Gordon did a wonderful job of protecting the ball. This was truly amazing.

Concerns from last night:
1) Noah did not play smart. Defensively and Offensively he just didnt seem to be there, even during his 4 minutes. Noah is, effectively, the Bulls’ only center. Noah needs to play smart.
2) Inside defense was bad. Dampier had his way with Thomas, Gooden, and Gray- and Dampier isn’t a dominant center. Lack of presence here will keep the bulls non-elite.
3) At times, probably during planned isolation, the offense just stands around. Apparently, this is so rose or gordon can penetrate inside- but the Bulls appear to stand on their heels. Many times I witnessed Tyrus or Gooden standing at the 3 point line in order to drift Dirk, Bass, or Dampier away from the key, but I didnt find this affective. Tyrus and Gooden do not have a threatening outside shot, and they need to stay in motion.
4) I cannot stand it when Tyrus is dribbing the ball at the 3 point line. Why is he there, passing the ball between Rose and Gordon? GET INSIDE! DO WHAT WE NEED YOU TO DO! Get in the key and get the ball there! The playbook needs to be adjusted.

by chicago-homesick-blues on Nov 14, 2008 10:12 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

Rebounds!

Ty Thomas had five offensive rebounds!

by mustanging5 on Nov 14, 2008 12:44 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Aaron Gray

was respectable and the Bulls took the lead with him on the floor in the first half. Gray continuuely gets no love here, while Noah and Tyrus are given free rides to score combined 5 pts/gm against ATL.

Futhermore I don’t necessarily agree : Tyrus as on of the 4 stars identified in this game, maybe his performance was a typical role player PF outting, with a few dunks, otherwise nothing special unless its documented on BaB?
This is crazy, first he is envisioned as a superstar without ever mention as a potential NBA AllStar?

Now it seems hopes are tempered to him being a Star and Impact player when he scores 8pts 8rbs?.

Heck, Chris Duhon might get thoses stats on a bad night (or 8 assist instead of rebounds) and somehow got no love on BaB!

Others who could get comparable stats:
Ben Wallace had 11 pts 6 rebounds and 3 assists last night?

maybe Cedric Simmons, Alan Houston, Horace Grant(if he put on a uniform today), Viktor K,

Othelo Harrington, etc,etc.

What’s in the chicago air, that has Paxsdorf manlove for Hinrich and BaB manlove for Tyrus and if give the opportunity to improve the roster, the current team wouldn’t miss a beat if either were traded?

by exult463 on Nov 14, 2008 5:41 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

we need your sober assessments

to keep us all in check.

USE THE SOFTWARE. Actions-> Rec/Flag. Reply to comments with the reply button. Rec good fanposts/fanshots so the crud gets pushed down.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Nov 14, 2008 6:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Wow... okay, I always new you were a sourpuss and thought was just your shtick.

But, to finally back a player (other than Rose) and you choose Aaron Gray? If anyone in this thread is losing “all credibility”… Although, i guess to lose something, one would first…….

Viva la nuance! Reading comprehension rules!!!

by tyger1147 on Nov 14, 2008 6:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

have to have it!

man up!

by exult463 on Nov 16, 2008 3:00 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

On Tyrus Thomas...

…in 35 minutes, he only took five shots other than the ones he got fouled on. So, out of the seven shots (assuming), how many plays were they where they got him the ball 15 feet from the basket and asked him to create? It couldn’t have been too many. I know at least one was a put-back and one was a cut to the hoop and a feed.

This is a serious inquiry.

Viva la nuance! Reading comprehension rules!!!

by tyger1147 on Nov 14, 2008 6:13 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

There were a few instances (didn't watch the whole game)

Where he had the ball in the post and actually attacked. One time he drew a foul (though he probably traveled and got bailed out because Erick Dampier is a mindless blob), the other time he could have scored on Dirk but rammed his shoulder into him and was whistled for a foul. Other than that, it seemed when he got the ball he wasn’t looking to do much with it. If there wasn’t a path to the basket or an easy shot, he passed it off and the offense reset. Since Gordon and Rose were taking their turns attacking the rim, it appeared (to me at least) that Tyrus’ offense was put on the back burner. He still had a good game, but I want to see him attacking the hoop more, especially against teams where the opposing 4 isn’t quick enough to stay in front of him.

by Ozzie Montana on Nov 14, 2008 7:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Good. It should be on the back-burner.

Run plays for players in this order:
Gordon
Deng
Rose
Gooden
Thomas
Hinrich
Gray
Sefolosha
Nocioni
Hughes

Rose and Hinrich are only that low because I figure as PG’s, they should be told that if they see something, they should call their own number. I know Nocioni and Hughes will call their own numbers. Thomas can get his number called more often when he’s playing well.

Viva la nuance! Reading comprehension rules!!!

by tyger1147 on Nov 14, 2008 7:53 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs