2011 Playoffs Bulls - Pacers: A look ahead to game two: who to play, how to play
by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 18, 2011 6:00 AM CDT
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In all practicality, the Bulls probably don't need to do anything different to beat the Pacers, and likely in an easy fashion. But this isn't just about the first round, it's getting the team as great as it can be for the rounds to come. There are some minor adjustments to what the Bulls can do for Monday night's game.
There's the difference between playing different players, and simply hoping that the same players play different. I think the latter applies to Carlos Boozer. Boozer was playing at such a low level that it was reminiscent of the couple of regular season games where Thibodeau sat him for entire fourth quarters, and I think if it was a regular season game he may have. And despite what Boozer was showing on Saturday, I think Thibs did the right thing in staying by him, because the Bulls need him to play better, instead of not play at all.
The initial concern with Boozer is if he can slow down Hansbrough, but here's hoping that Hansbrough slows himself down by his own not-that-great-ness. Per Hoopdata, Tyler Hansbrough was 7-10 from outside 15 feet, and he typically makes under 2 of those a game at 43%. Of course, when you're wide open as Hansbrough was, the percentage will go up, but in a way it's the shot you want him to take: we've also seen his ability to blow past Boozer on a drive, and he does have the skill of drawing fouls (through being weird and psycho-y, but still). Both Noah and Taj had their difficulties with Hansbrough as well, but I wonder if it wouldn't make sense to switch Boozer on the less-threatening Roy Hibbert to start the game. Hibbert obviously has a huge height advantage, but Boozer is quite strong for his size and if the Pacers want to work Roy Hibbert that often it's ultimately a good thing for the Bulls.
Boozer's point-and-yell-instead-of-move defense isn't going to change much, but his offensive production should. The look of difficulty Booz had in getting clean looks was worrisome, whether it was seeing his shot blocked, altered, or him getting caught with an offensive foul trying to create space. The Pacers bigs really shouldn't be this much trouble for him, especially in terms of speed, and I look for Boozer to cause contact yet this time get himself to the line instead of sending it the other way.
Now clearly Derrick Rose isn't sitting (in fact, I was surprised he came out at all in that 2nd half considering the deficit), but he can make some adjustments on defense as well. Not sure if it was strategy by Thibs or lackadaisical play that had Rose going under high screens for Collison or AJ Price, but each were able to punish the Bulls from long distance. They don't seem to be the kind of threats to where he couldn't play either more straight-up. The Pacers are making Rose work on both ends, but he seems to have responded to the physicality well, and if he was ever going to be surprised with it he definitely won't be going forward.
To the players who could see a change in playing time. I referenced it in the recap that this may be the end of the 'bench mob' as a unit, but in games where the Bulls are more comfortably ahead (which I expect in this series, anyway) it's likely to at least be tried in first halves. Kurt Thomas may have earned himself even more playing time in being 'physical' or a 'veteran' or whatever, but I worry (even though the playoffs means more days off) that he can be counted on for that much, that often. It'd be great to see Asik worked back into Thibs good graces, but fairly or not, Omer hasn't exactly played well in the face of his minutes reduction.
And now to the Bull-tattooed SG in the room: what to do with Keith Bogans. Bogans was off on Saturday and missed badly on a couple of his attempts. But the problem isn't just that he's missing, but that he's so not-even-a-threat that it allows the Pacers to feel free to switch their PG off of Rose and put a larger defender (namely Paul George) on him. Not saying that's always the best strategy either (oddly enough it was speculated that Dahntay Jones would get time on Rose, but he received a DNP), but I don't like that it's made available to the opponent at all. My guy Doug at ChicagoNow argues pulling Bogans entirely, but admits it's likely never going to happen, and I agree on both points. Thibs has made it this far with his decision to keep Bogans in the starting lineup, and pulling him now would make him seem out-of-sorts even moreso than benching Boozer on a bad night (at least he's done the latter before once or twice). But considering the precious feelings of the team (and I don't even know if I'm being sarcastic anymore on that) if Bogans can't be pulled the stints should at least be reduced, from Game One's 17 minutes down to around 10. May not make that much of a difference (and hell, if Bogans just hits a couple treys it's all good), but the cascading effect of getting Brewer in faster, and then Korver in faster, could mean a lot.
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How can Bogans be the difference in this series?
Subtract him from the starting line up.
or he can make threes, which he has the last 2 months
"I love you, mommy!" - Joakim Noah
Up pretty early
I agree that we should expect an improvement in Boozer’s performance, especially on the defensive side. One thing that I’d look out for in Game 2 is Boozer matching Hansbrough’s physicality, especially responding on the offensive side. The two are around the same size, maybe Hansbrough is a bit longer, but Boozer is a pretty strong guy. I think if he shakes Hansbrough’s confidence in the paint, it’ll transfer over on the other side, however minimal the difference may be. Like I’ve heard a lot of people say, Boozer just needs to out-produce Hansbrough on the stat sheet, everything else is just gravy.
Moving Boozer over to Hibbert might be an ok counter if Hansbrough continues to destroy him, but Hibbert is 5 inches taller and has a good 15 pounds on him. One thing I’d look out for if I was Thibs is if Boozer is being abused by the size difference, but I don’t think it’d be that big of a deal, considering Hibbert doesn’t box out well, and is prone to taking bad shots.
I'm expecting a better game by Booz
he usually steps up when is heavily criticized. But we will probably see it more on the offensive end
Top of the world
by JustAnotherFan on Apr 18, 2011 8:15 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
i agree with u
i see him having a monster game or 2 then forgetting what defense is again, Thibs benchin’ his ass and then monster game again…
The Dramas Pitifull - Giddy
You think Indiana might try some zone?
Maybe it would help against Rose. On the other hand, they did pretty well last game by shutting down everyone but Rose.
I agree that the Bulls have to get Boozer going in these playoffs. If they wanted to ensure a win they could isolate Rose every time down the court, but in the long run it’s more important to get other people going. I would like to see some crisp passing and a high ratio of assists to field goals in this game.
Yep, I do.
IMO the Bulls biggest vulnerability is Thibs reluctance to quickly bring in Korver when opponents go to a zone. And though the Pacers aren’t exactly playing a zone, they are certainly packing it in. I don’t think it’s coincidence that the Bulls big final push came with Korver on the court.
Bogans is great if you need someone to rough up Ray Allen, but I have yet to see any evidence the Pacers even have someone playing that position…making Bogans pretty much superfluous for this whole series.
Yes, I do
It helps clog the middle and stops him from driving quite so much. Rose can of course pass and use his perimeter shot, but when nothing has worked you have to try something. I’d say we might see Dahntay as well guarding him for the same reason.
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions
Omer for Aaron Gray! Get it done GarPax!!!
by Uncle Stanley McGoober on Apr 18, 2011 9:29 AM CDT reply actions
This made me laugh...but is also the larger point as far as Boozer is concerned.
Boozer’s point-and-yell-instead-of-move defense isn’t going to change much, but his offensive production should.
It’s easy (and sometimes fun) to bitch about Boozer’s defense. But what are we expecting at this point? He sucks on that end, always has, and it is not going to change. I’m far more worried about his offense. He needs to be productive enough that whatever he gives up defensively he matches on offense.
I don't expect Boozer to be a good defender, but he can be a Korver defender.
For my money, Korver has shaken his “bad defender” rap. He’s not necessarily a plus defender, but you can see he is putting some honest effort into it and at least trying to keep the pressure up. (somewhat off topic — was it Korver that stripped the ball on the defensive end prior to his go-ahead 3? It looked like it on the CSN camera angle)
I just want to see that level of effort from Boozer, because you know he has it — hell, he showed some of it in the Boston game. There’s a difference between not being a great defender, and literally just giving up on plays and standing around half the time. Or failing to defend because you’re too busy trying to yell for foul calls.
ASIK AND DESTROY
by JStymie on Apr 18, 2011 9:55 AM CDT up reply actions 4 recs
I'd feel pretty comfortable in assuming he thinks he's giving it his all.
In the past 10 years, just four team owners have not paid a luxury tax and are not on pace to pay one this year: Donald Sterling, Jerry Reinsdorf, Chris Cohen (Golden State), Bob Johnson (Charlotte).
Two owners’ teams averaged an operating income of over +$10 million per year while their teams have lost over 60% of their games: Donald Sterling and Jerry Reinsdorf.
by tyger1147 on Apr 18, 2011 10:20 AM CDT up reply actions 2 recs
Good point.. Korver has no reason being even a serviceable defender in the NBA, and yet he nearly pulls it off..
If Boozer took some of this approach, he’d make this team a lot better. Even if you say his focus is offensive, and his defense is secondary, why can’t he do what Deng does and double down on defense when his shots aren’t falling?
At $300 million, I don't want Albert Pujols anywhere near the Cubs.
by DisCUBbobulated on Apr 18, 2011 11:16 AM CDT up reply actions
It's the fact that Boozer avoids fouls (contact) so he can make it to the 4th.
It’s pretty savvy and very frustrating at the same time.
and Hansbrough was eating... he was eating chocolate chip cookies with a fork.
It might be savvy in a self-serving, but it hurts the team
It’s not like we have nobody on the bench to back him up. Taj has proven to fit pretty well with the rest of the starters (at least about as well as Boozer has). Plus we’d be getting more out of Boozer’s minutes if he was actually trying to play D.
I’d rather have 20 minutes of Boozer trying on D and 20 minutes of Taj than 25 minutes of Boozer not trying and 10 minutes of Taj.
Boozer basically is that kind of defender right now
People are just freaking out over one bad game. And let’s be honest, that game wasn’t even THAT bad. Like yfbb said, you probably want Hansbrough taking those long jumpers. Thibs’ defense is designed so that teams take long, contested two point shots. They’re terrible shots to take. Hansbrough just happened to be hitting them. Boozer got a hand up, but didn’t get right up on him because he didn’t want to get blown by,. If he plays him the exact same way tonight, I’ll have no problems.
The Playoffs: That magical time of year when I become a fan of every team that Lebron James isn't playing for.
by Juiceboxjerry on Apr 18, 2011 4:25 PM CDT up reply actions
I'm with you on the Hansbrough stuff...
but I still have complaints about the rotations and showing on ball screens. There are times where he looks comically flat-footed in a way that cannot be explained only by physical ability.
Yeah, no one will argue that he's Dwight Howard
but we didn’t sign him to be that. We got him for rebounding and post scoring. And he’s given us that when he’s been healthy, plus some great passing. The fact that this defense is number one in the league is more than enough for me to give the guy a break. Everyone just needs to chill a little, I’ll bet he has a big game tonight
The Playoffs: That magical time of year when I become a fan of every team that Lebron James isn't playing for.
by Juiceboxjerry on Apr 18, 2011 4:35 PM CDT up reply actions
Well, definitely agree with you there
I expect Boozer to have a 24pts – 12reb – 2 ast – 12 primalscream type of night
I think so and hope so.
Another thing in our favor is not just Hansbrough but the entire team was shooting lights out especially the first half …with perimeter shots. That’s not sustainable for an entire series. Add to that tightening up our defense and I think you’ve got a good recipe for winning the series.
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 5:39 PM CDT up reply actions
Wide open catch and shoot 15 footers are not terrible shots
"I love you, mommy!" - Joakim Noah
They weren't all "wide" open
The Playoffs: That magical time of year when I become a fan of every team that Lebron James isn't playing for.
by Juiceboxjerry on Apr 18, 2011 5:32 PM CDT up reply actions
Will Butler get a chance?
He can’t be worse than Bogan, can he?
Too bad it took Thibs the last game of the season to see what he can do.
Thibs is so stubborn.
and Hansbrough was eating... he was eating chocolate chip cookies with a fork.
Don't bet on it
I don’t think Thibs is liable to experiment much with untested lineups in the playoffs. Barring injury, Butler is looking at a (hopefully long) string of DNPs.
If Butler is the answer
I don’t want to know the question.
The fix for the Bulls 2 Guard is coming in the off season, not from the bench.
Let us cavort like the Greeks of old! You know the ones I mean.
by hedonism bot on Apr 18, 2011 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions
I'm not saying that Butler is the answer but... he could be part of it.
Bogans is a great player to have against Miami and Boston because he can focus on Ray Allen and Dwade.. however the Pacers have Paul George at the two man. No disrespect to George but he’s no Ray Allen so then Bogans is kinda pointless. Why would you need Bogans in to shut down George, someone who’s not a great player anayways?
Also with Boozer struggling the offense was becoming completely stagnant. Korver and Butler could have helped Rose better and we may not have had to wait until the last 2 minutes to see that lead finally shrink. I just think it’s Thibs who was holding them back. Bogans isn’t really needed this series as he would in say a Miami or Boston matchup.
I’d just like to see his minutes reduced and give Rose some shooting help.
and Hansbrough was eating... he was eating chocolate chip cookies with a fork.
by SoulEater7 on Apr 18, 2011 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
I know you didn't imply Butler was the answer
And I agree with what you said, reducing Bogans minutes. I just don’t see what Butler brings would do better than Bogans (is Butler really a lock to hit open threes?) Bogans should be playing the Butler role, as in, DNP, unless its garbage time and I would add Bogans minutes to Korver/Brewer.
Boozer struggling is more of a fluke than anything else.
Let us cavort like the Greeks of old! You know the ones I mean.
by hedonism bot on Apr 18, 2011 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions
Great point, Butler should play this series.
He might not make a much higher % than Bogans, but we won’t miss in such a comically bad way that the Pacers cease to guard him.
Alright I'm getting sick of the Pacers.
‘‘We’re going to shock people," said Hibbert. "There’s no way they’re going to sweep us.’’
Read more: http://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/213150/Hibbert_Guarantees_At_Least_One_Win_For_Pacers#ixzz1Jt9WO9qX
I’d like to see more Asik on Hibbert and Noah on Hansbrough. Obviously I’d like more Korver and Butler but the latter doesn’t seem to be in Thibs plans.
and Hansbrough was eating... he was eating chocolate chip cookies with a fork.
This is kind of sad to be honest
how is it “shocking” not to be swept?
Let us cavort like the Greeks of old! You know the ones I mean.
by hedonism bot on Apr 18, 2011 10:34 AM CDT up reply actions 8 recs
Exactly my thoughts.
As a player it is sad that it’s your goal to not get swept….and think that’s shocking. Even if it is I wouldn’t proclaim it. If you aren’t trying to win the series why in the hell are you playing? More exposure? to trend up your career? sad….
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions
I think thats the goal for most 8th seeds. Though you're right you don't wanna admit it.
and Hansbrough was eating... he was eating chocolate chip cookies with a fork.
Right...
I mean we laugh at the young prima donna wide receiver on the losing team who says before the game we’re gonna destroy them…but even when we laugh, you like hearing his fire and desire. Even Granger saying we’d rather play the Bulls is showing some fire and desire. Telling people you are agoing to lose becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 11:57 AM CDT up reply actions
The Bulls took a game from Cleveland last year, people noticed for about 5 minutes before the Cavs shut us down.
by Ozzie Montana on Apr 18, 2011 10:36 AM CDT up reply actions
Yeah LeBron just single handedly took that afternoon away.
The half court shot over Rose.
and Hansbrough was eating... he was eating chocolate chip cookies with a fork.
I was there for that.
:-(
The Chicago Bulls....have a young star, Derrick Rose, who must learn to live with the tearing down of his MVP candidacy as rapidly as he constructed it. - Woj
You must have felt cheated because the game was over by halftime..
and Hansbrough was eating... he was eating chocolate chip cookies with a fork.
I never returned to my seat (after halftime).
Watched the rest of the game on one of the giant screens near the concession stand. It was just a total massacre. And Lebron kept doing his stare down the crowd routine after his nice plays. At least that was the game where he initially tweaked his infamous elbow after a dunk in the 2nd qtr.
The Chicago Bulls....have a young star, Derrick Rose, who must learn to live with the tearing down of his MVP candidacy as rapidly as he constructed it. - Woj
I too was there for that massacre
And Lebron kept doing his stare down the crowd routine after his nice plays
Fuck it, I hope Miami gets past Boston and the Bulls meet the Heat in the ecf.
"The advanced metrics guys do not like Derrick Rose very much." - Bills Simmons podcast 2/4
by RogersPark Kris on Apr 18, 2011 12:00 PM CDT up reply actions
I would LOVE to beat Miami
But the problem is, I would rather lose to Boston.
never forget...
1.7%
anything is possible...
by wrigleyrocker12 on Apr 18, 2011 5:14 PM CDT up reply actions
So he just conceded the series to the Bulls.
That’s nice.
The Chicago Bulls....have a young star, Derrick Rose, who must learn to live with the tearing down of his MVP candidacy as rapidly as he constructed it. - Woj
It's kind of funny too..
But as bad as it is to hear being a player on the team, I don’t think we can count on the rest of the players to be thinking that way for Indy. They sure didn’t seem like it Saturday.
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions
i don't think the declaration that they won't be swept
when the series is 1-0 is a sign of disrespect. It actually shows he lacks confidence. What is he suppose to say? “Well, the Bulls are really good. I’ve already booked my flight to Jamaica for a day after game 4.”
by Basketball Smurf on Apr 18, 2011 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions
That's pretty much the kiss of death.
It’s like in the movies where someone says
“After this war is over I’m going to get married and start a family.”
Then he dies within the minute. Thank you Hibbert.
This is the full quote from Pacers.com
“I’m telling you this right now: the next couple of games are going to be exactly like that,” said Roy Hibbert. “We’re not letting down. We’re going to shock some people. There is no way they’re going to sweep us. We’re going to go out there and we’re going to beat them.”
Which is a little different than the slice sportswriters have used in a number of articles to say Hibbert doesn’t think they can win more than one. Not drastically different perhaps but I bet he was asked if they were going to be swept before this comment.
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 2:48 PM CDT up reply actions
yeah, that is pretty different
still not out of bounds, but a bit more forceful.
by Basketball Smurf on Apr 18, 2011 3:20 PM CDT up reply actions
New defense being implemented by the Pacers to stop Rose
Pacers planning ‘wall of defenders’ for Rose
I would get it just means plenty of free throw attempts again for Rose.
So they're playing a zone.
No need for the lame re-naming.
"The advanced metrics guys do not like Derrick Rose very much." - Bills Simmons podcast 2/4
by RogersPark Kris on Apr 18, 2011 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions
It be nice if thibs
also made an adjustment and played Korver more to bust up the zone, but of course not!
Rotations are set in stone and can’t be broken under penalty of law!
"The advanced metrics guys do not like Derrick Rose very much." - Bills Simmons podcast 2/4
by RogersPark Kris on Apr 18, 2011 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
I can't get enough of Korver.
LeBron is an Asshole
Why on earth would the Pacers be so public about their strategy to defend the Bulls?
I think it’s a smokescreen, and their strategy is to make Rose beat them while shutting down everyone else.
At $300 million, I don't want Albert Pujols anywhere near the Cubs.
by DisCUBbobulated on Apr 18, 2011 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions
Dahntay Jones is a bitch too.
Surprised he didn’t play in game 1. I think this really the plan. They said before the series shut down Rose you can beat them.
and Hansbrough was eating... he was eating chocolate chip cookies with a fork.
I expect him to play tonight for some minutes.
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 11:59 AM CDT up reply actions
He's probably gonna come in with the sole purpose to rough up Rose
That’s been his role on other teams
The Playoffs: That magical time of year when I become a fan of every team that Lebron James isn't playing for.
by Juiceboxjerry on Apr 18, 2011 4:28 PM CDT up reply actions
A post on Indy Cornrows
said Vogel plans to go 11 deep in the roster and play Dahntay tonight. Yep I think he’s gonna try that, he’s frustrated nothing else has worked. I hope the team and Kurt have his back and show they aren’t intimidated.
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 5:42 PM CDT up reply actions
it's the NBA, there aren't that many secrets
here it is, stop it.
BaB on Twitter | BaB on Facebook
"Don't nag, flag!"
by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 18, 2011 1:25 PM CDT up reply actions
Yeah.
The corollary to that also is you go with what brought you. If you drastically change it after one game I think it feels intrinsic you’ll be getting away from what works for you.
Having said that of course you have to make adjustments and change things with each game so it’ll be interesting to see what changes the Bulls do make beyond trying to tighten up the D. I’d like seeing Korver’s minutes increase if Boozer and Deng struggle at the beginning again.
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 2:52 PM CDT up reply actions
The key is to stop Deng and Boozer.
Don’t tell Indiana this.
and Hansbrough was eating... he was eating chocolate chip cookies with a fork.
Deng especially
The Chicago Bulls....have a young star, Derrick Rose, who must learn to live with the tearing down of his MVP candidacy as rapidly as he constructed it. - Woj
I'm pretty sure this isn't a secret.
If it was before Saturday it sure isn’t now. I know you’re probably not serious but I worried about this in the playoffs long before….as I guess many have here. Thankfully Deng improved and we’re gonna need that along with Boozer or Korver having a big night. Fuck it would be nice to play better D and not sweat the last 8 minutes.
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 12:02 PM CDT up reply actions
Translation: "We're going to play a 2-3 zone for the rest of the series."
by Ozzie Montana on Apr 18, 2011 11:42 AM CDT up reply actions
I've always associated a wall of defenders with a 1-3-1
Cut Rose off at the free throw line, not the hoop. If this is the case, enter Ronnie Brewer to work that baseline.
If that's the case, Lu and Ashton better bring their jump shots.
never forget...
1.7%
anything is possible...
by wrigleyrocker12 on Apr 18, 2011 5:16 PM CDT up reply actions
Poor Pacers (fuck em)
They still dont get it, nobody can stop Rose but Rose
Rose: Who in the blue hell are you?
Rondo: Well
IT DOESN'T MATTER WHO YOU ARE!
Can Rose stop Rose ?
I’m not sure he can.
by JockstrapNoah on Apr 18, 2011 12:00 PM CDT up reply actions
It's a question debated by the greatest minds with no conclusion.
Just as whether Ditka can beat Ditka.
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 12:03 PM CDT up reply actions
Was I just imagining it, or did Boozer almost appear to lose interest in the game
as Rose’s play intensified? (it very well could be the other way around of course)… Could it be that Boozer needs more individual glory to thrive? – and without it, he loses interest and becomes a bystander? Rose’s unbelievable driving/fall away/topspin teardrop followed by the king kong chest pounding… the only one that didn’t get riled up was Boozer, who just started walking away from the scene with an almost disgusted look on his face. I’ve seen this a few times during the regular season also… Boozer seems to get hyped up about his own play, and not the play of his team…
I’ll be watching for this even more closely these next few games…
If it’s true that we need to feed Boozer early and often just to get him interested in the game, it’s very concerning. Because a disinterested Boozer is more likely to commit sloppy fouls and be content sitting on the bench.
LeBron is an Asshole
He didn't loses interest he lost his ability to be aggressive.
He was in foul trouble. Boozer in foul trouble is a bad sign. He won’t touch people or help as hard.
and Hansbrough was eating... he was eating chocolate chip cookies with a fork.
This is just dumb
How can you say Boozers doesn’t get hyped about other peoples play? I mean you could blame him for a lot of things the last game, but that is definitely not one of them. After every big play by Rose or Noah he is always the first one cheering and yelling. I mean shit,,, half the time he does Rose’s yelling for him when he pulls off something nasty.
The NBA: Where Donaghy Happens.
And 1!!!!!!!!!!
"I love you, mommy!" - Joakim Noah
If Boozer just mostly shows up, the Bulls are mostly unbeatable
The Bulls were on their heels defensively, and the Pacers shot out of their minds, and Boozer was eating popcorn in the thrid row, and the Bulls won. But game 1 is now over and officially meaningless. The 2011 playoffs appear to be a dogfight in every matchup (e.g. Hornets beat the Lakers at Staples?!?). The Bulls are a very consistent basketball team, with no more than 2 losses in a row and no 10 game stretch worse than 5-5. They are alone in both categories, and this matters. However, Boozer matters too, especially with Noah not 100%. If he doesn’t really show up for at least half the games (is that asking too much?) then the Bulls are beatable. Even if Boozer bails on the playoffs, the bulls still might figure out how to win – which is kind of terrifying if you’re not a Bulls fan.
At $300 million, I don't want Albert Pujols anywhere near the Cubs.
by DisCUBbobulated on Apr 18, 2011 11:09 AM CDT reply actions
I hope everybody brings their "A" game
especially Booz
by chitown's own on Apr 18, 2011 11:16 AM CDT via mobile reply actions
Dudes sayingits easy to beat chicago
If anything the team easiest to beat is between orlando and NY. Let dwight get his and stop the 3 pt shooting dont even double team him, and NY’s D just suck
Rose: Who in the blue hell are you?
Rondo: Well
IT DOESN'T MATTER WHO YOU ARE!
Who said it is easy to beat Chicago?
Certainly not Hibbart.. apparently he thinks it’s an amazing achievement to just avoid getting swept.
by Grinder in Training on Apr 18, 2011 12:11 PM CDT up reply actions
i remember some magic and C's fans saying it
Rose: Who in the blue hell are you?
Rondo: Well
IT DOESN'T MATTER WHO YOU ARE!
Not worth a second thought.
I really doubt there is a general consensus that the Bulls are easy to beat anywhere. No matter how good a team is, some homerism fans of another team will say they are easy to beat. Every team in the league has a subset of fans that thinks that team is the best team without question. ;)
ASIK AND DESTROY
This reminds me of my 20:10:5 rule
1 in 20 people are ignorant assholes
1 in 10 sports fans are ignorant assholes when it comes to sports
1 in 5 sports fans are ignorant assholes with the addition of alcohol and the subject of sports
Moral: Have a thick skin, and let it go.
by chowder on Apr 18, 2011 2:32 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Some random fans, who cares?
Every team has their homer fans that are uninformed. The Bulls have plenty too I’m sure. Probably far more than the Magic considering how big our fan base is.
by Grinder in Training on Apr 18, 2011 12:19 PM CDT up reply actions
Consider the source.
I let magic fan members irk me on their site for awhile as they are completely delusional with their team …but why let madness bring you down for long. Just consider the source and I think most of the time it’s not worth getting upset to worry about crap like that.
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 2:57 PM CDT up reply actions
it's DUDES!
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"Don't nag, flag!"
by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 18, 2011 1:26 PM CDT up reply actions
Let me guess
im still on your shit list am I?
Rose: Who in the blue hell are you?
Rondo: Well
IT DOESN'T MATTER WHO YOU ARE!
it's hard to make the list, it implies I can keep your dumb comments straight from others
BaB on Twitter | BaB on Facebook
"Don't nag, flag!"
by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 18, 2011 3:01 PM CDT up reply actions
I hope Rose gets 30 points and 10 assists and Boozer gets 25 points and 15 rebounds
In part because I want to hear what the Pacers say about it afterwards.
by Scala-three-ne on Apr 18, 2011 1:13 PM CDT via mobile reply actions
Vogel: Refs wahhh wahhh
Fans: Refs wahhh wahhh
Hibbert: WE STILL WONT BE SWEPT!!!
Rose: Who in the blue hell are you?
Rondo: Well
IT DOESN'T MATTER WHO YOU ARE!
I'd really prefer Rose to get 20 and 15
with Deng and Booze over 20 points each, Noah around 15, and Bogans/Brewer/Korver/Gibson combing for 30+.
Eff' Hansbrough
-------
cheekymonkeyart.com | follow me on facebook and twitter
by David Taylor on Apr 18, 2011 1:17 PM CDT reply actions 11 recs
then bet it, and report back
JK! don’t.
BaB on Twitter | BaB on Facebook
"Don't nag, flag!"
by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 18, 2011 1:26 PM CDT up reply actions 2 recs
Revenge of the fav on their home court I suspect.
They believe losing for most of the game will wake the team up and I hope they are right.
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 3:01 PM CDT up reply actions
People will say "Ooo, too much" and bet Indiana
Then the Bulls will roll and the bookies will reap the benefits!
Derrick Rose will be suspended by the NBA because he has broken too many ankles.
Rose's D got a pounding from the twitterverse
Folks seem to be really sick of the guy (and to some extent, this team). Not sure I get it, though. The guy’s not the best player in the league, and he may be a debatable MVP. That’s all fine and dandy. But he’s not obnoxious or arrogant, and he’s a lot of fun to watch (even when torching 5’10" PGs).
I’m a little dumbstruck by it all.
Meh, Collison started out shooting hot, then cooled off considerably
Besides, the twitterverse must have got a bit of a jolt in the second half.
"The advanced metrics guys do not like Derrick Rose very much." - Bills Simmons podcast 2/4
by RogersPark Kris on Apr 18, 2011 2:12 PM CDT up reply actions
Yeah I read a number of the Indy fans complaining about it on their blog.
Add to the announcers all the media fawning over him and the MVP thing and it does get a little much sometimes. He earns it with his play but when it gets non stop sometimes it gets old especially for the fans of all the other teams.
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 3:04 PM CDT up reply actions
I thought it's been more because of the fans.
It’s been pretty obnoxious this year. If every fan and sports writer doesn’t anoint Rose the next MJ, the greatest player in the last 10 years, etc, people freak out. It’s like Hollinger and some of the other writers — there is nothing wrong with not having Rose as your MVP this year. There is no shame in being thought of as the top 5 in the league right now, because there are a LOT of amazing players in the game right now.
ASIK AND DESTROY
Certainly could be.
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 3:10 PM CDT up reply actions
I'm totally fine if someone doesn't think he's the MVP
but I have a problem with people who don’t totally discrediting everything he does based on
A: Fact he’s never won a playoff series (besides, it should be a miracle a team coached by VDN made the playoff)
B: Thibs D is amazing
C: He’s surrounded by solid players
D: He not a stat whore
"Word of advice, don’t join, Bears fans are crazy."--- D-Jackfan10
This statement is not accurate at all:
If every fan and sports writer doesn’t anoint Rose the next MJ, the greatest player in the last 10 years, etc, people freak out.
But wait, did I come across as too Rose fanboy army-ish? It seems like one can’t defend Rose without being lumped into the ‘spam’ Hollinger crowd.
"If the Bulls are healthy it could get ugly." - Joakim Noah
It has become this slippery slope with both sides
firing fanboy insults.
"The advanced metrics guys do not like Derrick Rose very much." - Bills Simmons podcast 2/4
by RogersPark Kris on Apr 18, 2011 3:43 PM CDT up reply actions
I see what you mean about the difference.
But I would say it doesn’t have to be literally true of every member to have a point nor was it meant to be literal.
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 3:44 PM CDT up reply actions
And that's kind of my point
Both sides of this (admittedly counterproductive and somewhat irritating) Rose debate are guilty of exaggerating the other side’s position.
"If the Bulls are healthy it could get ugly." - Joakim Noah
Fair enough. I agree.
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 3:51 PM CDT up reply actions
Thibs looks like a puppet master in that pic. Lol
I think Booz will bounce back tonight. He’s been getting into funks all year. As long as he stays out of foul trouble and contributes more on offense we should be ok.
I did agree with the Boozer criticisms, but ...
Hansbrough was 4-12 with Boozer on the floor. We are all wrong about Boozer’s D on Psycho T in Game 1. Boozer shut down Hansbrough in the first half. He went 0-4 against Boozer. In the second half, Psycho T got hot and went 4-8. But 4-12 overall is a heck of an effort, especially compared to how the Bulls were torched when Boozer was off the floor.
by californiachicagoan on Apr 18, 2011 1:57 PM CDT reply actions
Pick and roll strategy is usually coaching
Considering Collison makes 0.5 threes a game at 33% rate, it would seem to b sound strategy. Of course, it didnt turn out that way last night.
by californiachicagoan on Apr 18, 2011 2:01 PM CDT reply actions
I'd like to see more
lineups with Korver at the 2, Ronnie at the 3 and Deng at the 4.
Korver draws George off Rose, Ronnie should be more than enough in a one on one game against Granger, and Deng would never let Hansbrough go 7 of 10 from mid-long range.
This would be a great game to play with small lineups.
Rose / Korver
CJ / Rose
CJ / (Korver or Brewer, depending on rest)
Rose / Brewer
ASIK AND DESTROY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VJ2SLFZ2nH8
did anyone see this
FUCK RONDO, FUCK KG, FUCK BOSTON AS AN ORGANIZATION, STAFF AND AS A MOTHER FUCKING CREW! AND IF YOU'RE DOWN WITH BOSTON, THEN FUCK YOU TOO!
by Omer Asik's thumbs on Apr 18, 2011 3:14 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
fail
FUCK RONDO, FUCK KG, FUCK BOSTON AS AN ORGANIZATION, STAFF AND AS A MOTHER FUCKING CREW! AND IF YOU'RE DOWN WITH BOSTON, THEN FUCK YOU TOO!
by Omer Asik's thumbs on Apr 18, 2011 3:15 PM CDT up reply actions
thanks! couldn’t have done it without you.
FUCK RONDO, FUCK KG, FUCK BOSTON AS AN ORGANIZATION, STAFF AND AS A MOTHER FUCKING CREW! AND IF YOU'RE DOWN WITH BOSTON, THEN FUCK YOU TOO!
by Omer Asik's thumbs on Apr 18, 2011 3:30 PM CDT reply actions
not that i don't mind that drose is getting positive attention but, is every reporter (ceot hollinger)
buying into the rose for MVP hype? cause it seems like they are.
See the most important parts are the ones that are unseen
See the wings don't make you fly and the crown don't make you king
I've let that go for myself.
It’s playoff time. That’s what I care about at the moment. The rest is fodder for the off season to me.
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 3:45 PM CDT up reply actions
OT: So I ran into an old friend of mine at Coachella this weekend. He does photoshoots for a living
He brought up a story about Derrick that surprised me a bit. He said he had a shoot scheduled with Derrick after the game against the Pacers on March 18 in which the Bulls lost. When Rose came to the shoot, he looked miserable and sick as hell. When my friend asked what was wrong, Derrick just grabbed his stomach and said, “I got these ulcers man, you got no idea how much they kill” He told Derrick to sit down in the green room until he felt better.
After 2 hours, Derrick came out and said nothing was helping but he would do that shoot anyways. The hommie said, “Man, don’t even sweat it. We’ll get the shoot in another time.”
The reason I bring this up was because the ulcers story broke in January and apparently wasn’t supposed to be an issue anymore. This was 2 months after that story leaked and they were clearly still an issue. Kinda interesting. Also wondering if it’s just losses giving him these ulcers cause if that’s the case, this kid might die before it’s all said and done
by Option27 on Apr 18, 2011 4:01 PM CDT reply actions 3 recs
all that candy catches up to you
and Hansbrough was eating... he was eating chocolate chip cookies with a fork.
Ulcers don't go away that easy
specially when you play with Bogans and have Thibs at your ear all the time
Top of the world
by JustAnotherFan on Apr 18, 2011 4:28 PM CDT up reply actions
well seriously
stomach ulcers have multiple causes of course. Peptic ulcers or not, irritable bowel syndrome is just one possibility. Stress does play a role in most of them but I hope he got advice from a GI specialist with it causing so much trouble for him. You want to make sure you work on the correct underlying cause rather than just tell someone to drink maalox and rest …when bacterial infections and syndromes could be behind it. I’d think by now if it was still bothering him the medical staff would have set up an appt with more than a general physician.
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 5:06 PM CDT up reply actions
Also from Coachella
Sal Masekela spent an hour telling me why he believes Derrick Rose is the second coming of Jordan.
Was quite thrilling to be honest
I remember an episode of Malcom in the Middle where he got ulcers after he joined the basketball team..
You always were second best! And in this business, Bub, second best don't *cut* it!
That caption is frickin great
So Thibs
The Playoffs: That magical time of year when I become a fan of every team that Lebron James isn't playing for.
I can't seem to get too excited about this series for some reason.
Maybe it’s because the result is a foregone conclusion.
This space is available.
Yeah, but watching Derrick Rose is exciting enough
The Playoffs: That magical time of year when I become a fan of every team that Lebron James isn't playing for.
by Juiceboxjerry on Apr 18, 2011 5:37 PM CDT up reply actions
Bulls 101 - 89 IndyCornRolls
Thibs got his team a chemistry set for Christmas
by livesinnoahsbasement on Apr 18, 2011 4:59 PM CDT reply actions
Didn't see that there but I did see
this…Wells tweets
That Vogel said we’re going 11 deep tonight (that’s what she said!). Dahntay’s getting burn. Probably a few minutes here and there as we continue throwing everything but the kitchen sink at Rose.
Doesn’t surprise me Dahntay would play as Vogel is looking for anything to stop Rose. I don’t see it being that important but it’s a little interesting I suppose.
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 5:35 PM CDT up reply actions
Man these playoff schedules are sure whacked.
Many of the series have two games before game 2 to spread out TV coverage during the week. Guess I didn’t pay enough attention to it before but all this time off messes with me as a fan, I consider it lucky we had just one day off at home. I think the only coaches who appreciate it are those with injuries.
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 5:12 PM CDT reply actions
Is there gonna be a preview for tonight?
never forget...
1.7%
anything is possible...
by wrigleyrocker12 on Apr 18, 2011 5:18 PM CDT reply actions
For the record, Collison had 2 points in the second half
Rose is gonna be in constant Beastmode tonight, wanna end this series quick..
"I love you, mommy!" - Joakim Noah
Also worth noting, the Bulls have a 7-3 record on my birthday since my year of birth, 1980
by Option27 on Apr 18, 2011 5:28 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
Happy Birthday man!
Let’s make it 8-3
The Playoffs: That magical time of year when I become a fan of every team that Lebron James isn't playing for.
by Juiceboxjerry on Apr 18, 2011 5:36 PM CDT up reply actions
Happy birthday Option
Top of the world
by JustAnotherFan on Apr 18, 2011 7:22 PM CDT up reply actions
happy birthday.
I’m taking this as a sign. we got this, that and we are fucking awesome.
Lu-Deng Clan Aint Nuttin ta Fuck Wit !
How much you guys wanna bet that Tyler Hansbrough is listening to Creed right now?
The Playoffs: That magical time of year when I become a fan of every team that Lebron James isn't playing for.
by Juiceboxjerry on Apr 18, 2011 5:36 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
Haha why Creed?
"Did Michael Jordan join the Pistons when he couldn't beat them? No. He dug down deep and went out and kicked their fucking ass."
Was wondering that myself.
They started out as christian rock…dunno.
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 5:45 PM CDT up reply actions
Idk, isn't that exactly what you'd imagine a guy like Hansbrough is listening to to get himself pumped up for a big game?
The Playoffs: That magical time of year when I become a fan of every team that Lebron James isn't playing for.
by Juiceboxjerry on Apr 18, 2011 5:55 PM CDT up reply actions
(while eating cookies with a fork)
The Playoffs: That magical time of year when I become a fan of every team that Lebron James isn't playing for.
by Juiceboxjerry on Apr 18, 2011 5:57 PM CDT up reply actions
JBJ, you should listen to the most recent NBA Today podcast
Russillo rips on Westbrook’s not so smart decision making in last night’s game.
And to answer you question, I have no doubt in my mind that Hansbrough is rocking out to “With Arms Wide Open.” He would.
"If the Bulls are healthy it could get ugly." - Joakim Noah
Yeah, I was just listening to that actually
It was great. At the end he even said, “For all you people that think Westbrook is as good as Rose, he’s not”
The Playoffs: That magical time of year when I become a fan of every team that Lebron James isn't playing for.
by Juiceboxjerry on Apr 18, 2011 6:18 PM CDT up reply actions
jbj you have your moments man, I nearly spat my damn coffee out!!
Lu-Deng Clan Aint Nuttin ta Fuck Wit !
klay thompson declared for the draft
good news for the bulls?
If we're counting on Klay Thimpson next year, that's probably real bad news for the Bulls
The Playoffs: That magical time of year when I become a fan of every team that Lebron James isn't playing for.
by Juiceboxjerry on Apr 18, 2011 5:56 PM CDT up reply actions
i'm not saying we should count on him..................
by John T. Unger on Apr 18, 2011 6:04 PM CDT up reply actions
So then why would it be good news?
The Playoffs: That magical time of year when I become a fan of every team that Lebron James isn't playing for.
by Juiceboxjerry on Apr 18, 2011 6:07 PM CDT up reply actions
because we need a SG
and he’s a SG with good height and a great shot?
by John T. Unger on Apr 18, 2011 6:24 PM CDT up reply actions
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
Dick Stockton tonight.
The Playoffs: That magical time of year when I become a fan of every team that Lebron James isn't playing for.
(I'm calling it right now: During prgame introductions he calls Derrick "Darius Rose".)
The Playoffs: That magical time of year when I become a fan of every team that Lebron James isn't playing for.
by Juiceboxjerry on Apr 18, 2011 6:10 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
And Chris Webber.
Yeah it sucks bad. Guess we’ll find out what color hair Stockton has tonight, He’s probably using a chisel to spackle on the makeup as we speak.
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 6:19 PM CDT up reply actions
Has Chris Webber done a game before?
I thought he was strictly part of the TNT studio crew with Chuck and Kenny.
by californiachicagoan on Apr 18, 2011 7:07 PM CDT up reply actions
Since it caused some confusion game 1.
Though the NBA is advertising the Bulls game being on TNT, game 2 is on CSN / CSNHD also. Hopefully Pippin will be announcing again.
ASIK AND DESTROY
Pretty sure Pip is gonna be with them throughout the Playoffs
(Though not the Finals IF we’re fortunate enough to make it that far)
The Playoffs: That magical time of year when I become a fan of every team that Lebron James isn't playing for.
by Juiceboxjerry on Apr 18, 2011 6:20 PM CDT up reply actions
Pippen will be throughout the series along with CSN.
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 6:20 PM CDT up reply actions
new thread for Heat-Sixers (and Bulls hypin')
why pretend we’d talk something different?
http://www.blogabull.com/2011/4/18/2119028/game-2-hype-heat-sixers
BaB on Twitter | BaB on Facebook
"Don't nag, flag!"
by your friendly BullsBlogger on Apr 18, 2011 6:21 PM CDT reply actions
13-5 Heat already. the series is over Philly.
"Fast Don't Lie"
by Sandberg's evil twin on Apr 18, 2011 6:21 PM CDT reply actions
HAHA!!! Oh man, that caption is fucking hilarious!!
"Are you drowning them or makin' love to them?"
by Bullsarenumber1 on Apr 18, 2011 8:22 PM CDT reply actions
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