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Guys, I'm starting to worry about our guy Paxson here

Especially weird Pax-speak after the Boylan wake on Thursday:

Paxson claimed to have no timetable and no preconceived leading candidate for the job. When he addressed the media at the Berto Center, Paxson made it sound as though he'll accept the best sales pitch.

"I'm not going into this thing, 'I've got to have this kind of person,' I can tell you that," Paxson said. "I'm going into it open-minded and with the belief that I'm going to try to find someone that I think can connect with our organization, resonate with our fans and be the right guy that can get us back on the winning track.

"Contrary to what has been written, I don't have any one person in mind that I want to go after to get this job. I'm not going to worry about a timetable. I'm not going to worry about anyone getting hired in the meantime.

"I'm going to do as thorough a search as I can to find someone that I think will fit the organization and give us direction going forward. I think we need some real leadership from that position."

(Before I rant on nearly every word he said, I acknowledge that Paxson is likely lying or at least embellishing about some of this. It's either that or he's overmatched as a GM, so I'd choose to believe the former.)

First of all, it's unforgivable (if it's true) that he has no preconceived leading candidate, let alone no idea what kind of candidate to look for. Not only should starting an informal coaching search have been deemed necessary after seeing a week of Boylan, he should have replacements in mind even when Skiles was coach. Pax is playing it off as being thorough, but I consider it unprepared.

And notice the quick jab at the media when saying "contrary to what has been written". Yet another example of Paxson giving too much worry (i.e., any) to that darned 'misinformation' out there that keeps him from doing his job. For someone who isn't worried, he sure spends a lot of time saying how he isn't worried.

And worse yet, he should be worried, if it's regarding the possibility that someone is hired in the meantime. What if they're the best choice? Right, he doesn't even have an idea what criteria he'll be looking for, let a lone who fits that. Holy crap.

And then there's the pandering to the fans.  I don't want the coach to "resonate" with me. I don't even care if he "connects with the organization", as even Pax has said that the same organization needs to be reevaluated at all levels (And it sounds like he's right on that point. Of course, no part of that reevaluation involves canning 'organizational guys'  Myers and Adams, though they weren't promised seats on the bench either).

For contrast, look to Ben Gordon, who said regarding his preferred style of coach: "It really doesn't matter to me, I think we just need a coach who knows the result is winning." I feel the same way, as winning will resonate just fine. Pax should be even less worried about the fans than the press when it comes to this.

For a guy who's supposed strong suits include dealing with the media, Pax sure finds ways to irk me often. And the examples above wouldn't get to me so much if he didn't reinforce them every chance he got, and worse yet make personnel moves that echo them. It's a pattern that's getting harder to explain away.

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full disclosure:
if you listened to Dan Bernstein this afternoon on WSCR...he was basically ranting the same thoughts. I was totally nodding pretty much the whole time though and would've had the same reaction to the quotes independently, I assure you :)

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 17, 2008 7:56 PM CDT reply actions  

It's a sales job
Pax's comments were a sales job--a really bad one.

Like a lot of other guys doing poorly in a sales job, a lot of what he said lacked substance and seemed like pandering. In fact, the amount of spin he put into his statements and the number of buzz words or catch phrases was alarming--though he failed to add the once popular "accountability" and "synergy" and "culture of winning".

When you hear this kind of stuff it feels like he takes you for a fool. Especially since a lot of Bulls fans have very sensitive b.s.-meters. Not only that, but that's a lot of feelgood fluff and nonsense from the guy who in the past has preached anything but.

"Duhon, don't make that garbage-time jumper... Save it for the next game!"

by bullhockey on Apr 18, 2008 9:35 AM CDT up reply actions  

"Resonate with our fans"
Fuck, if that's what you want, just hire Ditka.

by Big D on Apr 17, 2008 8:00 PM CDT reply actions  

LLOL!!!
Let us prepare for glory! --Michael Redd

by tyger1147 on Apr 17, 2008 8:06 PM CDT up reply actions  

Seriously
I'd be happier with Ditka than Carlisle, Larry Brown or the ghost of Red Auerbach.  Even if it was mini-Ditka.
BAB Tyrus Love-Meter -- 8 - Deciding whether next season is going to be similar to Kemp 95-96 or better.

by cubbybear on Apr 18, 2008 12:59 AM CDT up reply actions  

I'm just going to pretend I don't mind.
How many coaching vacancies will there likely be? If Paxson waits until after the draft to hire a coach (I'm not sure if I believe that), I think that's a good sign from my perspective.
Let us prepare for glory! --Michael Redd

by tyger1147 on Apr 17, 2008 8:11 PM CDT reply actions  

There might be quite a few
There's already two.  There'll be three once Isiah is fired.  Atlanta, Charlotte, and Memphis might fire their coaches.  Riley might step down (especially if the Heat don't land Beasley or Rose).  And you never know if Don Nelson will decide to go back to Hawaii.

by Big D on Apr 17, 2008 8:18 PM CDT up reply actions  

Maybe he learned his lesson with Skiles
Paxson probably sees now that falling in love with one guy and not even considering other coaching possibilities wasn't the best way to go.

He's said he's keeping an open mind, what's wrong with that? I'm sure he has a list of coaches and he'll be able to narrow it down from there.

by RogersPark Kris on Apr 17, 2008 8:14 PM CDT reply actions  

What the hell is wrong with this franchise...
I would post a rant, but it would end up being a reiteration of the Henry Abbot analysis, which perfectly encapsulated the woes of this paternalistic, oppressive regime.

BTW, I am a fan, I am a season ticket holder. I know many other fans, and many other season ticket holders, including the ones here. None of them have ever voiced any deep longing for character or grit. All of them simply want to win. It's as if Paxson is pandering to an obsolete sterotype of blue-collar Chicago sports fans, fans who no longer even exists in reality, fans who certainly aren't paying tens of thousands of dollars for Bulls season tickets.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Apr 17, 2008 8:19 PM CDT reply actions  

maybe you sit too close
the "Noh-cee-oh-nee" chants from 300 level beg to differ :)

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 17, 2008 9:11 PM CDT up reply actions  

I'm OK with one gritty, character guy
coming off the bench, so long as Pax manages to find a coach who understands that he's a gritty, character guy who should come off the bench for a limited number of minutes.  

But, yeah, this obsession with creating a whole team of gritty, character who should come off the bench is a bit of a problem, to say the least.  It sure makes the start of first and third quarters problematic.

It takes a special coach to make Aaron Gray a guy you can see.

by wjb1492 on Apr 17, 2008 9:20 PM CDT up reply actions  

Ding! Ding! Ding!
What wjb1492 said.
"Duhon, don't make that garbage-time jumper... Save it for the next game!"

by bullhockey on Apr 18, 2008 9:20 AM CDT up reply actions  

I guess that is a good point.
But those chants have dwindled to a sporadic whisper this year.

They were more popular when Nocioni was actually playing decent basketball and the Bulls were actually winning.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Apr 17, 2008 9:22 PM CDT up reply actions  

I was kidding a bit
like you said, the Grabowski element is a bit antiquated by now. But not dead.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 17, 2008 9:26 PM CDT up reply actions  

Do the season ticket holders get together?
as some sort of organized association at any point during or after the season?

I know Bears season ticket holders and they tell me they get together with people in the same section in the off season generally to talk Bears, but they also talk about putting pressure on the club.

The Kids Must Stay In The Picture!!!

by NBA Observer on Apr 18, 2008 8:49 AM CDT up reply actions  

I think
Paxsons talk was just a mini screen to let real fans know we ain't getting a Larry Brown, etc type.

I bet this due dilligence will be talk that will ease into, well I hired this NBA rookie coach again basically because Reinsdorf doesn't want me to spend any more money seeing that I've already f'd up this franchise this year....

I mean how can he not have his coaching search narrowed down to 3 guys, he's had since Dec 24th to hire his real coach (well maybe he's had since late Jan before it was clear Jimmy Boylan wasn't the right choice)....

Maybe Sam Vincent will become available....

Mike Woodson might be better now that he's a coach with "playoff experience".

"Mark Iavonni too has done a damn fine job in Memphis and might be fired for it too.

Of course Larry Krystowiak is already living close by and now he's unemployed....hey why not him too.

Of course I'm kidding.....but it would be a sad event if this organization goes for cheap again with the coach.  I really wish they didn't do this interim thing coming into the most important summer for this franchise post 1998 (Deng and Gordon are HUGE decisions and I'm not so sure Pax has proven worthy of making big, objective decisions).

We'll see, if he f's up this summer Paxson will likely be out as Bulls GM by this time next year.  It's a shame as I want to like Pax, one of my bball idols as a kid, and a Chicago legend.

by majoyenrac on Apr 17, 2008 8:42 PM CDT reply actions  

they went cheap with Phil Jackson
it'll only bother me if they suck. Or if they somehow admit that they didn't want to spend too much on a coach.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 17, 2008 9:12 PM CDT up reply actions  

So all they need is a cheap, no name coach
and to draft the greatest player ever.  Problem solved!  :)
It takes a special coach to make Aaron Gray a guy you can see.

by wjb1492 on Apr 17, 2008 9:15 PM CDT up reply actions  

I know they
went cheap with Phil Jackson, but since then they also went cheap with Tim Floyd, Bill Cartwright, Jimmy Boylan and Scott Skiles (pre contract renewal).  Skiles wasn't an awful hire, he was pretty good actually but he at least had a bit of coaching experience and success as a coach in the past.

There aren't many Phil Jackson's out there--actually there's only one NBA Phil Jackson and he's on the Lakers now and might be the best coach (or top 5 at least inarguably) of all time....

There are some VERY good coaches out there but we tend to try to spend little on the coaches in this city just to drastically overpay the players (Lou Pinella notwithstanding I guess)...

by majoyenrac on Apr 18, 2008 7:31 AM CDT up reply actions  

Kind of funny that Kirk and Ben in their comments
on Boylan's firing managed to give a better idea of what type of coach they anticipate, while speaking in total generalities, than Pax, the guy actually responsible for making the decision.
It takes a special coach to make Aaron Gray a guy you can see.

by wjb1492 on Apr 17, 2008 9:01 PM CDT reply actions  

gah!
I completely forgot to include Gordon's quote in my post. I'll rig it in there now...it's after peak viewing hours, nobody will notice :)

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 17, 2008 9:06 PM CDT up reply actions  

(not on the west coast)
I agree that Pax's comment about "taking his time" is disconcerting.  What that means is he doesn't have a plan, that the termoil is a new revelation, that he's been so busy preparing for the draft he hasn't had time.  Pax needs to chart the course, not play catch-up.  What has he been doing these last few months???!!

by hlac on Apr 17, 2008 9:33 PM CDT up reply actions  

New Bucks GM John Hammond
At today's Larry Krystkowiak firing:
In this kind of situation, the best thing to do is be decisive. That doesn't mean there's a timetable, but we're going to react as quickly as possible...The bottom line of this decision is this is a results-driven league. Sometimes it comes down to wins and losses. Once again, the man that Larry was and the effort he put forth had very little to do with the decision.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 17, 2008 9:25 PM CDT reply actions  

"the man that Larry was"
Did Hammond fire him, or run him over with the Bangomobile?
Stephen Curry is the lowpost answer!

by hscs on Apr 17, 2008 9:29 PM CDT up reply actions  

For example
two promising potential GMs are off the market already.

by Sports2 on Apr 17, 2008 10:20 PM CDT up reply actions  

that'd be bad news
if the bulls were trying to get a GM.  I hope Hammonds gets all lathered up and signs Carlisle to a big deal.  He's a bad fit for the bulls anyway.  
Don't tell anybody, but here's hoping TT puts it all together.

by bullshooter on Apr 17, 2008 10:30 PM CDT up reply actions  

Sports2, check out Sam Smith's latest
post on Hoops Hype for more GM talk.

The Best Unknown GM

The Kids Must Stay In The Picture!!!

by NBA Observer on Apr 18, 2008 8:53 AM CDT up reply actions  

Nice find, Observer
After the garbage we've been getting in Chicago lately, it's nice to read a Sam Smith story.

Both Sam and KC were on cltv last night, and true to form, KC sat there like the dim-witted sidekick (I think he said about two words the whole show)...while Sam went with opinion after opinion, after funny anecdote after funny anecdote.

by alec on Apr 18, 2008 9:28 AM CDT up reply actions  

Great find!
That article also mentioned Jamaal Mashburn who was a shockingly interesting listen on the radio when I, coincidentally, heard him this weekend.  His cohost (it was some ESPN show) would ask him things like how much he though various player's career earnings were.  Mash would take a guess and invariably be within a million bucks or two.

He also had all kinds of interesting anecdotes about various players and coaches, like how Elden Campbell played with a $100 bill tucked in his sock to keep him focused in his contract year.

--------------------------

About GM's, I just want a guy with a freaking plan, and I don't see much in the way of vision for how winning basketball is played from the current one.  I'd be perfectly happy with an older guy like Jerry Colangelo, Jerry West, Wayne Embry, guys that have proven they're more than a soundbite or a flash in the pan.  I'd be happy luring away a guy like Bower who's succeeded in circumstances that were probably tougher than anything faced by big-market Chicago.

by Sports2 on Apr 18, 2008 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions  

Bower did get some help from Atlanta
who selected Marvin Williams at #2 in 2005 instead of Chris Paul or Deron Williams two point guards that they really needed.

Any time you're talking GM moves and the draft there will be some luck involved.  We Bull fans know about Sam Bowie.

I'd love to have Jerry Colangelo as GM who will soon be free from his USA Basketball commitment.  ;)  Watch your back Pax.

The Kids Must Stay In The Picture!!!

by NBA Observer on Apr 18, 2008 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions  

sounds to me
like Pax wants an assistant from a team that might go deep in the playoffs and won't let the guy out to interview before the team is done.  And he doesn't want to tip his hand to other GM's.  

I'd make a comment about reading between the lines, but I think this diary was just about tearing Paxson down a little to keep exult on your side.  :-p

Don't tell anybody, but here's hoping TT puts it all together.

by bullshooter on Apr 17, 2008 9:52 PM CDT reply actions  

Pretty sure that's what it is
Maybe he wants Thibodeau
and he knows he won't be able to get him until after the play-offs.

by alec on Thu Apr 17, 2008 at 05:37:17 PM CST
[ Parent | Reply to This ]  

by alec on Apr 17, 2008 10:03 PM CDT up reply actions  

what's with that sig?
did you make that call and are you insinuating that I am stealing your idea?  You need to link so I can see where you made that comment.  link link link  ;-)
Don't tell anybody, but here's hoping TT puts it all together.

by bullshooter on Apr 17, 2008 10:07 PM CDT up reply actions  

right
otherwise the predictions database is improperly indexed.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 17, 2008 10:58 PM CDT up reply actions  

I was just surprised
to see it...and I DON'T want to learn how to link.  But maybe I will upgrade my skills in honor of the BaB upgrade.  No, I don't think you stole anything.  I'm sure you didn't see it, and if I could effing link you to it...well, whatever.

by alec on Apr 17, 2008 11:07 PM CDT up reply actions  

I had thought
Pax has someone in mind but for reasons unknown to us he's not going to share with us and he shouldn't have to. When the time is right for all concerned we'll know.

by sue369 on Apr 17, 2008 10:06 PM CDT up reply actions  

If that's it
then that's a relief because that eliminates Larry Brown and all the other "highly experienced, available ex-coaches"

by hlac on Apr 17, 2008 10:27 PM CDT up reply actions  

the reason is
he's oddly paranoid, for someone in a high-profile public position. Like I said it's either that or he's incompetent. Both are rip-able.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 17, 2008 10:57 PM CDT up reply actions  

*type of coach
although, maybe he should hire a GM first to handle all this sticky business of hiring and firing. That way he can sit back and track each player's facial hair for cleaniness.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 17, 2008 11:02 PM CDT up reply actions  

He doesn't
have to tell us what kind of coach he's looking for. If he did the media and fans would be more crazy than they are now with their choices. I don't blame him at all for not giving any indication of what kind of coach he's looking for.

by sue369 on Apr 18, 2008 10:31 AM CDT up reply actions  

fine, then go into Krause mode
and say nothing. And especially don't say anything about how you need to pick a coach that 'resonates with the fans and connects with the organization'

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 18, 2008 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions  

plus this all goes back to the fact that
he's sortof losing his 'benefit of the doubt'. He did hire Jim Boylan.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 18, 2008 10:36 AM CDT up reply actions  

for half a season
when the previous coach quit.  While Boylan wasn't good, the way the season went wasn't 100% his fault either.  The players have to share some of the blame independent of the coach or the GM.
Don't tell anybody, but here's hoping TT puts it all together.

by bullshooter on Apr 18, 2008 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions  

he was beyond 'not good'
and yes they all get a nice spoonful of blame.

I'm independently blaming Paxson for hiring that buffoon and even worse not telling him what to do.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 18, 2008 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions  

he was the best choice at the time
you don't throw out the whole system 25 games into the season.
Don't tell anybody, but here's hoping TT puts it all together.

by bullshooter on Apr 18, 2008 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions  

and yesterday he was fired
and we all move on.
Don't tell anybody, but here's hoping TT puts it all together.

by bullshooter on Apr 18, 2008 11:13 AM CDT up reply actions  

huh?
we're evaluating Paxson. (his favorite word, ironically)

We're here to talk about the past, Mr. McGwire.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 18, 2008 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions  

yeah
and you're wasting everybody's time.  Pax has already addressed the past by firing Boylan, and stating that he will try to fit a coach to the players.  You should be doubly super psyched, because that probably means TT isn't going anywhere and Pax will try to come to terms with BG.
Don't tell anybody, but here's hoping TT puts it all together.

by bullshooter on Apr 18, 2008 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions  

by all means...
I look forward to reading your blog on the subject.

Do we really need to get into a debate over what's an appropriate timeframe to 'move on' from analyzing mistakes, a time beyond of going over their impact and relevance to confidence regarding future moves? really? you're that big of a pain in the ass? I mean, your act would work better if you were someone with more to say.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 18, 2008 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions  

you're probably right
I should save up my comments into one big comment instead of replying to three threads at a time.  I just disagree with your implicit assumption that John Paxson's quote above should be taken at face value.  That pretty much sums it all up, no need for a blog or a diary.  If we can talk about the future, then I can make the argument about how the changes Pax has already made are the correct way to handle the situation.  But this doesn't appear to be the forum for that yet, and I am diametrically opposed to the "throw the baby out with the bathwater" mob around here.
Don't tell anybody, but here's hoping TT puts it all together.

by bullshooter on Apr 18, 2008 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions  

and that's fine
I think this is a pretty open place when it comes to having disagreeing opinions.

I do get upset when it's suggested whether something's relevant or not to even discuss. If you don't think it's worth discussing, don't contribute to the discussion.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 18, 2008 12:03 PM CDT up reply actions  

I was talking more in the congressional sense
because with the exception of NBA Observer, who is actually going to turn this into a career, we are all wasting time here...  
Don't tell anybody, but here's hoping TT puts it all together.

by bullshooter on Apr 18, 2008 12:21 PM CDT up reply actions  

So...
Pax has already made the correct changes and everything is pointed in the right direction?

Also, could you elaborate on what, in particular, your diametrical opposition to the "throw the baby out with the bathwater" mob entails?  Forgive me if I'm mistaking you for someone else, but I though you told me getting rid of Luol Deng, who's generally been considered our best player over the last couple of years, needed to be the Bulls' first priority.

Don't get me wrong, I don't have a problem with that position.  In fact, I find it quite a bit more interesting than discussions of diametrical opposition and babies and bath water.

by Sports2 on Apr 18, 2008 12:10 PM CDT up reply actions  

although I do find it interesting
what should be considered the babies.

I'd think casting off the best players on the team would be throwing out the babies.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 18, 2008 12:18 PM CDT up reply actions  

upgrading, not getting rid of
they should try and get someone more athletic with a different type of game.  Noc was better at getting to the rim this year.  Deng's jumpshotting game is redundant with BG, and BG is a better jumpshooter, so keep him, and trade Deng.  
Don't tell anybody, but here's hoping TT puts it all together.

by bullshooter on Apr 18, 2008 12:27 PM CDT up reply actions  

Finishing
Deng finished at .586 below the basket.  Nocioni was at .511.  And Nocioni finishes well at the rim?
http://www.nba.com/hotspots/

by jpchi on Apr 19, 2008 3:40 PM CDT up reply actions  

read it again
I said gets to the rim, not finishes.  Deng settles for the long jumper a lot more often.
Hi Sue! ;-)

by bullshooter on Apr 19, 2008 4:43 PM CDT up reply actions  

Fine,
Luol took 400 shots under the basket and Nocioni took 225.  I assume you'll argue that Luol played 10 more minute per game, but he played in 19 less games so it comes out pretty even.  Finally, Noc takes away more shots away from Gordon because he spends a lot of his time around the arc like Gordon and unlike Deng.  

by jpchi on Apr 19, 2008 9:30 PM CDT up reply actions  

82 Games shows Inside Scoring

According to them:

39% of Deng’s shots were inside, and he made 60.6%

21% of Noc’s shots were inside and he made 55.7% of them.

They’ve actually got a sortable list so you can go through and compare them to other guys around the league.

by Sports2 on Apr 20, 2008 2:41 PM CDT up reply actions  

It's an interesting comparison

despite all the injuries Deng, he played 100 more minutes than Noc who played in all 82 games. They both took roughly the same number of shots. The only evidence I (besides watching the games) is that Noc had a lower ast’d percentage on his close and dunks compared to Deng implying that Noc was more likely to drive on his own. Deng was more likely to get his close and dunks on plays where he was making a cut, not off of the dribble. I wasn’t trying to say that Noc should start over Deng, just that he has a more aggressive style on offense that I’d like to see either the SG or SF have. The fact that Deng had almost twice the percentage of close and dunks that Noc had also probably means that he is going to rim, just in the context of the offense, not while rying to create his own shot.

2008 or bust.

by bullshooter on Apr 20, 2008 4:41 PM CDT up reply actions  

And

we want Nocioni to be dribbling with his handles?

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

by jpchi on Apr 21, 2008 1:42 PM CDT up reply actions  

You're wasting your own time, dude.
Take some responsibility for your own actions.
Let us prepare for glory! --Michael Redd

by tyger1147 on Apr 18, 2008 1:30 PM CDT up reply actions  

What were the
choices for head coaches at the time Skiles left? I feel there are things we know nothing about going on with this team. I think Pax knew he wasn't going to retain Boylan when he hired him. How do we know besides evaluating future NBA prospects that he hasn't been evalutating coaching prospects since Dec.? Just because he doesn't come out and say he's doing those things doesn't mean he's not.

by sue369 on Apr 18, 2008 11:02 AM CDT up reply actions  

I prefer my version
where he's too busy sweeping his office for bugs.

I want some confidence from the guy that he knows what he's doing. Instead he's talking about the media and fans first. Does that mean he's actually more concerned about the media and fans? No, but he says it all the time and it's annoying. God forbid he tips his hand and says "I have some candidates in mind".

He's still above-average. Even in this abysmal season, he nailed the Noah pick and scammed someone into taking Ben Wallace. But he hasn't done a good enough job where I can just assume the crap coming out of his mouth is some grand master scheme.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 18, 2008 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions  

For every John Calipari
whose agent is leaking rumors that he's interested in the xyz job so that he can redo his deal where he is, there is a John Paxson who says he has a completely open mind about who the next coaching hire will be.  Can we please stop taking everything at face value?...
Don't tell anybody, but here's hoping TT puts it all together.

by bullshooter on Apr 18, 2008 11:21 AM CDT up reply actions  

Paxson's first priority, make money?
Does that mean he's actually more concerned about the media and fans?

And by 'make money' I really mean 'make the playoffs without spending any more money'.

Did you read the story today that says Boylan was still paid his same assistant coaches salary for the rest of the season?  I would have thought they at least gave the guy a slight raise to account for his increased responsibility even if he was an interim coach.

The Kids Must Stay In The Picture!!!

by NBA Observer on Apr 18, 2008 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions  

heh
to make a similar point, I completely believe that it was Paxson's goal after firing Skiles to do everything possible to get to the playoffs that season, and mostly because of the playoff revenue.

That's not a bad reason, just makes it look worse that they were indeed trying yet were still were so bad at executing that plan it looked like they weren't (to bullshooter).

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 18, 2008 12:01 PM CDT up reply actions  

Since snley turned me on to Karl's DRTG
numbers, it appears that Karl joined the Nuggets mid season, rescued the team from a 13-15 record under Jeff Bedzelik, a desperation hire in Michael Cooper that went backwards, and then plucked Karl out of the SoCal beach league who then took the Nuggets 32-8 the rest of the way to make the playoffs.

Karl's been there ever since.  Although, he may get fired if he can't get the Nuggets to the 2nd round.

The point here is that you can hire a new coach midseason and turn a team around even if they arrive from outside the organization.

The Kids Must Stay In The Picture!!!

by NBA Observer on Apr 18, 2008 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions  

Yes he
has done some good things this past year. What do you think would have happened had he said, "I have some candidates in mind"? I think it would have made things worse.

by sue369 on Apr 18, 2008 12:41 PM CDT up reply actions  

EXACTLY!!
The spectre of Krause has been hovering for some time now over the Berto.  The elusive Krause bunker, like some magical wardrobe, lies still concealed somewhere on the premises...and Paxson has escaped into it.

by alec on Apr 18, 2008 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions  

The bunker
is concealed concealed in plain sight. Because it's actually a large tent, which is generally mistaken for part of Krause's magical wardrobe.

by Sports2 on Apr 18, 2008 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions  

Huh
If he did the media and fans would be more crazy than they are now with their choices.

I don't see how that's any of John Paxson's concern.  Shouldn't he be focused on, you know, actually getting a coach instead of wasting his breath on whether someone is going to second guess him?

by Sports2 on Apr 18, 2008 10:39 AM CDT up reply actions  

I didn't mean to
imply that he would be conerned about what the fans have to say but that the rest of the world would have to put up with fan speculation. I have no doubt he is very focused on finding the right coach. My point is he doesn't have to share what kind of coach he is looking for.

by sue369 on Apr 18, 2008 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions  

Agreed, he doesn't
But I generally agree with the take of Matt and others that he's showing a bit more concern than he ought about things that are, from his perspective, pretty irrelevant.

by Sports2 on Apr 18, 2008 11:21 AM CDT up reply actions  

And maybe
they are just words coming out of his mouth and he doesn't give a shit.

by sue369 on Apr 18, 2008 12:46 PM CDT up reply actions  

my auapicions exactly
again, no pretense to knowing who'd succeed, but BShaw would seem to have the resume.  I'd also feel comfortable that almost ALL up and coming assts are still playing.

by California Al on Apr 18, 2008 1:20 AM CDT up reply actions  

We agree.
As I said, the rumor that he wants to wait is good news to me.
Let us prepare for glory! --Michael Redd

by tyger1147 on Apr 18, 2008 2:27 AM CDT up reply actions  

It is really possible
that since december 2007 and even before Skiles firing that Paxson's job hasn't been easy or too enjoyable.  Actually it might be very stressful and continues so for him.

I just don't think reading between the lines will shed any insight.  I wish that it did. I don't dislike Pax, and wish he finds a way out to save face and his sanity.  This isn't a easy job, but currently it's his and he accepted it.

This situation that's occurring now shouldn't be reviewed in isolation?  Look at the current roster, look at the current players stats, look at the win-loss record, review draft picks in light of what-ifs, look at the current players signed, unsigned and the amount of salary promised.  Skiles and Boylan didn't have primary responsibility of selecting and signing the players.

Others have stated the situation, Paxson bet the farm and entrusted everything to Coach-GM Skiles.  That ship sank.

Paxson is an integrity guy and very consistent with his words. "He evaulates players at the end of the season", not calling them in his office during the season.  Hired interim coach, and stated I'll "evaulate Boylan after the season" (Heck! everyone on BaB wanted Boylan Ax after 3 games). "At the end of season fires interim Boylan".  After some period (2 months?) he'll consider candidates for a coach replacement?

You can read thru the lines if you want too, but I take Paxson at his word.

by exult463 on Apr 17, 2008 11:34 PM CDT reply actions  

Agree - Paxson is doing the right thing
The coaching decision is the most important decision that will be made this summer.  Paxson should be careful and thorough.  Thibodeau probably will not be available until June.  The Bulls coaching job is the best compared to Milwaukee and the Knicks.  We are in the driver's seat here.  If we lose a coach because he couldn't wait he didn't want this job bad enough.  I also like the idea that Paxson wants someone else's perspective on how to use the players.  This is the way to make such an important decision.

by chgobr on Apr 18, 2008 6:41 AM CDT up reply actions  

Hot commodity:Thibodeau
If he had a choice after the playoffs, would he definitely choose Chicago
with all the troubles here  .... instead of potentially

Atlanta, Charlotte, and Memphis

Heat, Bucks

Looks like the Heat could be a good situation for a rookie head coach.
What do you think bullshooter...

We can always wait like we did for Garnett, Gasol, Kobe, and next Thibodeau.

by exult463 on Apr 18, 2008 12:00 AM CDT reply actions  

Pat Riley
has his greasy hands in everything.  He forced out a coach last time.  I think he'd rather work for some other GM.

Then again, they have good talent(two great players), and a high pick coming.

BAB Tyrus Love-Meter -- 8 - Deciding whether next season is going to be similar to Kemp 95-96 or better.

by cubbybear on Apr 18, 2008 1:02 AM CDT up reply actions  

Yes
Due to Riley past actions, I'd agree and imagine it might not be an idea situaton to work as his coach?

Riley the GM or Riley the coach and back seat driver?  This sometimes can be a good thing or a bad thing depending on the chemistry between the two individuals.  But, cooperation, communication, sharing between and two can have its merits.

I think Stan Van Grundy is a good coach, Riley seem to sense that the margin of error to win the championship that year was small and he chose to lead the helm.  While, some consider it an unpopular decision it work to perfection for Riley with the help of Dirk. :)

If Riley gives up coaching, I'm sure this issue will be hammered out by the next Heat coach in conversations with Riley.  Also it might give the new coach a slight edge in negotiations.  In addition, as a rookie coach do you think Riley could also be a good choice as a mentor?

by exult463 on Apr 18, 2008 8:54 AM CDT up reply actions  

Here's
some interesting choices from Barry Rosner in a Daily Herald article.

http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=174359

by hlac on Apr 18, 2008 4:38 AM CDT reply actions  

Shaw is a guy I want to read more about
I'll be watching the Laker games already for the playoffs.  I'll pay attention to him on the sidelines.

The Reggie Theus performance in Sacramento is something that intrigues me.  I really thought the Kings were going to be terrible, but to close the season they were getting Spencer Hawes minutes as their center.  They had injuries all season long.  They traded Bibby.  They played in the West.  And they still won 5 more games than us.

The Kings are having trouble organizing a new arena deal.  The market is already small.  The Maloofs seem like the coolest ownership group in the league.  So even in a down year they still win 38 games with a first year, first time NBA head coach?

The Kids Must Stay In The Picture!!!

by NBA Observer on Apr 18, 2008 9:02 AM CDT up reply actions  

I like the Shaw
idea....that might be nice.

I'm less a fan of his argument for Adrian Dantley citing Denver's success in the post.  Denver's post success is due to the talent they have not the coaching, as Melo's continued defensive deficincies will attest to.

Based on the awful Denver D despite the talent, I don't want AD as our head coach, but I wouldn't mind seeing him as a big man coach...assistant with us.

by majoyenrac on Apr 18, 2008 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions  

Also
Sure Camby's likely again DPOY, but he's been playing at that level for years....the difference the last two years is that he's actually playing instead of bowing out after his 45 games of service (he's playing likely due to the clause in his contract that he gets paid millions more depending on the game threshold he hits--plus it doesn't hurt that Denver's beeni nt he playoff hunt these past few years)...

by majoyenrac on Apr 18, 2008 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions  

Dantley
does bring the added intrigue of being an ND guy.

by alec on Apr 18, 2008 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions  

Paxson applauds this comment
see? he knows he has to get some kind of chicago connection, to resonate!

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 18, 2008 11:21 AM CDT up reply actions  

"some kind" is right
Stephen Curry is the lowpost answer!

by hscs on Apr 18, 2008 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions  

Hmm, is Mike Brey on the fast track?
to the head coaching position in Chicago?

How about Digger Phelps?  John MacLoud?  Maybe Matt Doherty?

The Kids Must Stay In The Picture!!!

by NBA Observer on Apr 18, 2008 11:57 AM CDT up reply actions  

What a crock!
Karl's Sonics teams and Nuggets teams have consistently finished in the upper half of the league in defensive efficiency.  Only one of his Sonics team's failed to be average or above average defensively.  

by snley on Apr 18, 2008 9:40 AM CDT up reply actions  

I'd gladly take George Karl
Clearly he isn't too hung-up on benching guys with bad character, anyway...

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 18, 2008 9:46 AM CDT up reply actions  

you'd change your tune
pretty quickly if he was your coach here.  He ended up ruining the Bucks.  The man got Ray Allen traded because he wasn't Karl's type of player, and that whole thing was the beginning of the Bucks troubles.

He also thought Tim Thomas was going to be a superstar.  Ha!

Plus, he's a huge, huge drama queen.

by KT on Apr 18, 2008 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions  

As long as the team was winning 50+ games
a year, I'd take his drama.  His record in the playoffs may not be great, but I love the way his teams play.

by snley on Apr 18, 2008 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions  

A lot of people thought Tim Thomas
was going to be a superstar.
The Kids Must Stay In The Picture!!!

by NBA Observer on Apr 18, 2008 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions  

Can you link me?
Is there a free source to view data that shows Karl's Nugget teams finishing in the upper half of the league in defensive efficiency.

Also, would this data include this season?

I think the Nuggets are a terrible defensive team, but if they're in the upper half of this data I want to learn why.

The Kids Must Stay In The Picture!!!

by NBA Observer on Apr 18, 2008 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions  

Is there a list view per season
If I wanted to know the list of 1-30 for ORTG and DRTG for as far back as the data goes, does bballref have this?

I'm looking at Skiles' teams to see their respective ORTG and DRTG as well as this Pythagorean W/L formula.

The Kids Must Stay In The Picture!!!

by NBA Observer on Apr 18, 2008 12:13 PM CDT up reply actions  

I was, found nothing
I tried again, found it right away.

Lunch does recharge the body.

The Kids Must Stay In The Picture!!!

by NBA Observer on Apr 18, 2008 1:11 PM CDT up reply actions  

What, is that guy still a sports writer?
It's not so much that Charley Rosen's a grouch (which he is). His shit is way too boring and intellectually easy. And while it's clearly supposed to be funny, or at least witty, it's neither.
"Duhon, don't make that garbage-time jumper... Save it for the next game!"

by bullhockey on Apr 18, 2008 11:21 AM CDT up reply actions  

Karl sucks
There's a reason the man has never coached a Championship team.

The job he did with the Sonics in the 90s was close to pathetic.  They always smoked the Rockets, but he couldn't get them past the Nuggets in the first round when MJ was retired.

by BullsFanInSeattle on Apr 18, 2008 10:43 AM CDT reply actions  

What is the deal with Paul Westphal?
He disappeared five or six years ago, and now apparently, KC has revived him as a candidate for the Bulls job.

I remember he did a great job with the Suns, a team that basically consisted of a pf and pg.  Yes, they were all-nba'ers Barkely and KJ, but Westphal had that team playing really exciting basketball for a lot of years.

by alec on Apr 18, 2008 11:38 AM CDT reply actions  

johnson wasn't a true point guard
that's what the bulls need, so what good could westphal do with that?
Stephen Curry is the lowpost answer!

by hscs on Apr 18, 2008 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions  

OK
Pretend my whole post was just the title.

by alec on Apr 18, 2008 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions  

Paul Wastphal sucks
he sucked in phoenix, sucked at pepperdine, and currently sucks at whatever he is doing.  Watch the finals highlights from 93...the guy is a total amateur.  jim boylan sr

by Conor on Apr 18, 2008 1:58 PM CDT up reply actions  

Stormin Normin for Coach!!!!!
He says it how it is,
He's all about hard work,
Not afraid of the media or the players,
Definitely would be entertaining!

by serbstream on Apr 18, 2008 1:47 PM CDT reply actions  

In backwards way that would be good
...b/c then we wouldn't have to listen to his studio work.

by Jobu on Apr 18, 2008 2:26 PM CDT up reply actions  

before we hang pax...
why not wait and see who he hires.  i think its gotta be tom thibodeau.  the bulls have some guys that can get after it on defense, they just need a little structure and direction, so maybe this guy is the key.  
however, if he hires someone like paul westphal, i am joining matt's lynch mob

by Conor on Apr 18, 2008 2:05 PM CDT reply actions  

heh
I'm not hanging Pax. I'm just calling him out on his bullshit. Plus he keeps signing guys that fits his 'mold', so I have to start believing it more and more that he really believes what he's saying.

Anyway...Thibodeau is fine. Although I don't think it will take anyone special to get this team back to a good defensive team, they just have to try again. I wouldn't mind them taking a shot at someone who may get this team at an offensive level beyond "fucking terrible".

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 18, 2008 2:11 PM CDT up reply actions  

that is true
i hate our offense, you cant even call it an offense.  i dont know how many times i wanted to either throw something at my tv or through my tv off my balcony when watching the bulls.  it was wild this year, when they would move the ball well, they won more often, when noc and hughes would come down chucking, i just wanted to destroy something.  and unfortunately for everyone this year, noc and hughes were chucking like that was the objective of the offense.  combine that with a classic kirk turnover and wallace's leaping ability, and you have special ed basketball.  the right coach is the guy who will show these guys how not to be d-bags on the court. bg is right about the next coach, winning matters the most, not whether this guy can go out and have a beer with the guys while out on the road.

but if pax royally fucks this up, ie another shitty year, then a lynch mob maybe necessary.

by Conor on Apr 18, 2008 2:35 PM CDT up reply actions  

The funny thing about the offense
is that out offensive rating was only -1.0 compared to last season.  We were 104.9 last year and 103.9 this year.  The NBA average was +1.0 this season compared to last.

It's the defensive rating where we dropped off the earth.  107.2 this season and 99.6 last season.

Compared to the entire league we were 26th in ORTG this year and 21st last year.  In DRTG we were 14th this season and 1st last season.

I too was in the metaphoric TV throwing frame when watching the offense this year, but the defense made me want to watch Oprah.

The Kids Must Stay In The Picture!!!

by NBA Observer on Apr 18, 2008 3:03 PM CDT up reply actions  

well there was farther to fall in defense
but getting the defense back will only make the team 'meh'.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 18, 2008 3:18 PM CDT up reply actions  

Um... that's the point about the offense...
...it did'nt fall far, and it sucked. They were bad offensively before and only getting back to that isn't any good. They have a bunch of natural defenders who aren't going to bad; they could easily be Top 10 by trying (as Matt said) and with a moderately competent coach. Doing anything good on offense, however, will take a lot of work from a coach.

I still think they either need to go with someone who is good in player development for 3-4 years and see what comes, or go with someone who is damn good on offense.

Let us prepare for glory! --Michael Redd

by tyger1147 on Apr 18, 2008 3:42 PM CDT up reply actions  

yeah
it was weird with the defense this year.  no heart, i guess.  thats why at the end of the day i want thibodeau as the head coach and pip as an asst coach.  

by Conor on Apr 18, 2008 3:42 PM CDT up reply actions  

Please bring Pippen to the organization
Wilhelm, Adams, and Pete Myers are "organization guys".  Paxson says they're going to be reassigned somewhere within the organization, but one of them is going to end up on the assistants list.
The Kids Must Stay In The Picture!!!

by NBA Observer on Apr 18, 2008 3:57 PM CDT up reply actions  

how many times is this brought up?
Nobody's given me the Dynasty DVDs yet as a gift (although I'm sure joejoe is debating whether to send me that or a mailbomb)

...but Pax brought Pippen back into the organization as a pseudo-player-coach years ago, and Pip made such an impression that they bought him out months before his contract was up.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 18, 2008 4:00 PM CDT up reply actions  

Second look at Adrian Griffin
second look at Pippen.

Paxson is and should be desperate at this point.

The Kids Must Stay In The Picture!!!

by NBA Observer on Apr 18, 2008 4:09 PM CDT up reply actions  

desperate to give Pip a paycheck?
I admit it's a hard thing to quantify or analyze, but for once, when coaching candidates are brought up, I'd like to hear something besides 'he once played for the Bulls' and/or 'he once was a great player' as qualifications.

Once we hire Hakeem to teach Sene the dream shake through osmosis, comment levels will drop tremendously.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 18, 2008 4:18 PM CDT up reply actions  

I kind of like Dwane Casey
I haven't heard his name mentioned here yet, but he did a very creditable job in Minnesota with not a whole lot to work with.

by Sports2 on Apr 18, 2008 2:09 PM CDT reply actions  

Shaw, the Triangle, and
Pax's comment that he wants the players in Chicago this summer working out together.  To learn a new system.  It all fits!!

by hlac on Apr 18, 2008 3:50 PM CDT up reply actions  

listening on
there's some other juiciness, but what pertains to this thread is that Sam's talked to Paxson and is taking Pax's words yesterday as truth.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 18, 2008 3:57 PM CDT up reply actions  

Of all the coaching possibles
Sam mentioned, it sounded like he was somewhat leaning towards Paul Westphal, or maybe Mark Jackson.

by alec on Apr 18, 2008 5:24 PM CDT up reply actions  

I get the impression Pax wants someone...
... who'll do his job for him.

He's looking forward to hearing the players ideas about what went wrong and how to get back.

He's looking forward to hearing coaching candidates' ideas about what the best way to go is.

I understand the need to listen to what other people have to say, but in the words of Scott Skiles, "This is not a democracy".  

Pax is the GM.  He's the guy who has to lead this thing, and he gives every impression of looking around for someone to tell him what to do.

by Sports2 on Apr 18, 2008 7:02 PM CDT up reply actions  

Calling someone who knows...
A few months ago, a book was recommended to me from someone (hscs? snley?) called, I believe, Basketball on Paper, by Dean Oliver.

I'm thinking of getting it as a birthday gift for a stat-minded high schooler.

Am I thinking of the right book?

Thanks.

by alec on Apr 18, 2008 5:21 PM CDT reply actions  

no love...
:-(
Don't tell anybody, but here's hoping TT puts it all together.

by bullshooter on Apr 18, 2008 9:22 PM CDT up reply actions  

Was it you, bullshooter?
I figured it was one of the guys who routinely mocked my un-statness.  Thanks, then.

by alec on Apr 18, 2008 9:54 PM CDT up reply actions  

I remember when
that someone told you about this book of Oliver.

I think it was sbulls.

The Game chose him !

by Diabolo on Apr 19, 2008 7:16 AM CDT up reply actions  

It wasn't me as I've yet to read the book myself.
Plus, I've never mocked you for un-statness.  I've always mocked you for reading too much into things.  

by snley on Apr 19, 2008 6:07 PM CDT up reply actions  

The fact that Paxson is waiting tells me
he isn't sold on Carlisle and wants to consider Thibodeau.  

by chgobr on Apr 18, 2008 7:14 PM CDT reply actions  

Incidentally Carlisle was on ESPN Radio
I didn't realize he was an analyst for them.  He sounded downright reasonable on the radio at least, pretty much in the same way Skiles did.  You sit back, listen, and think "Geez, he sounds like a nice guy, I can't believe he actually killed and ate an undrafted free agent last October".

by Sports2 on Apr 18, 2008 10:22 PM CDT up reply actions  

wow carlisle
is a commentating the Washington-Cleveland game which was a reaaallyy good game up until 2 minutes left when Cleveland decided to start taking over..now washingtons down by 5 with 20 seconds left..

by ChiTownCritic on Apr 19, 2008 2:16 PM CDT reply actions  

nba headline
"Late-Game LeBron beats the Wiz"

Can they just rename their team to the Clevaland LeBrons?  It would clear up any notion that the other players are involved in a win.

Worst case scenario finals:  Spurs vs LeBrons

by cranscape on Apr 19, 2008 4:48 PM CDT up reply actions  

MarketMaker...
Totally unrelated to this thread but...

MarketMaker,

You bet me that Kobe wouldn't win the MVP.

http://www.blogabull.com/comments/2008/4/11/142120/986/97#97

Since the season is now over will you stand behind that claim?

by Khalid El-Amin on Apr 19, 2008 5:44 PM CDT reply actions  

Chris Paul is awesome
can we get a chris paul, maybe at least a pt guard????  Imagine if we actually had someone who could pass, what he could do with tyrus.  Chris Paul makes Tyson chandler look like an all star.

by serbstream on Apr 19, 2008 8:14 PM CDT reply actions  

Sure, why not?
They grow on trees after all.  

by cranscape on Apr 19, 2008 8:50 PM CDT up reply actions  

Paul is unbelievable
He is a pleasure to watch as long as he isn't playing against the Bulls.

by chgobr on Apr 19, 2008 9:32 PM CDT up reply actions  

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