Blog a Bull: An SB Nation Community

Navigation: Jump to content areas:

Sports blogs for fans, by fans.
New Blog: Sounder At Heart for Seattle Sounders Fans!

Open Game Thread #24: Bulls at Boston Celtics

Tiny by Diabolo on Comment 313 comments

[Big thanks to diabolo for today's preview. -Matt]

Tonight, the Bulls play at the "previously known as Boston Garden", to play a scary (so far) Celtics squad boasting the best record in the league after nearly two months of action.

The Celtics will be plenty motivated after losing their last game on the last possession against Detroit. They will not want to start their first losing streak of the season. Meanwhile, the Bulls are trying to find their rythm this year (about time really) and want to finally figure out again how to put a few wins in a row feels like.

Larry Brown (the Bulls next coach?) has a few interesting things to say about this particular game on NBA.com :

On the difference between defending the Bulls or Pistons (for Boston):

"The biggest thing for Boston to combat is that Chicago plays an uptempo style that is lacking a true post-up game. When you play Chicago, you have to keep them out of transition. If they get a lot of easy baskets, similar to Detroit, it makes their halfcourt that much better. So if you're Boston, you really have to defend the pick and roll because the Bulls do that multiple times in possessions. Then you have to keep people in front of you because Chicago's game is penetrate and kick. If you have to help, you usually leave open shots." On the Bulls being back on track or not : "Now they have started to play better and more consistently. Their rookie Aaron Gray has given them a big boost off the bench the last few games. Tyrus Thomas has played better and so has Joakim Noah. It seems like they're starting to play the way everyone expected them to, but again, if they don't make outside shots, it's usually pretty difficult for them to beat the better teams." On the question if teams relying on the perimeter like the Bulls can advance far in the playoffs (if they make it there): "I think they can if they have a good defense. I've always thought that it's overrated to say you need a post presence. When you look at Chicago with Ben Wallace, Tyrus Thomas, Joakim Noah, and Joe Smith, you've got guys with length. If they can rebound effectively on the offensive glass then they'll be ok. They can get by like that." On the match-up with Boston tonight: "Deng and Paul Pierce are the keys in my mind. Both can score the ball, they both are underrated rebounders, they both have the ability to get to the free throw line and they will have to guard each other. I will be curious to see which one is able to guard the other one and which one has success offensively."
"With Wallace out, Andres Nocioni may have to guard Kevin Garnett. If that happens, he is giving up a lot of size. For anybody to guard Kevin it is a tough matchup, but it would be very, very difficult for Nocioni to stay out of foul trouble if he has to guard him. However, with that in mind, Kevin has to go out and guard Nocioni too, and Nocioni can shoot from deep, which is a factor." My opinion about that game? Sure, it would be great for the Bulls to beat the Celtics, and could provide a boost to their confidence, but I don't necessarily see this game as a key for the Bulls future success. They don't really have much to lose in this game. What I'd much rather like to see, for now, is the Bulls starting to win "somewhat" constantly and easily against lesser opponents, and then when come mid-season and then (hopefully) Playoffs time, you can start talking about matching up with those top teams as the next step.

As Joakim and Thabo would say : "ne mettez pas la charrue avant les boeufs", which in English could be translated as "(literaly) don't put the trailer before the buffalo or (another lame attempt at English) start building the foundation before putting the roof on top".

Then again, I'm not against winning tonight too.

FanPosts are user-created posts from the BlogABull community, and are to be treated as the opinions and views of that particular user, not that of the blogger or blog community as a whole.

0 recs  |  Comment 313 comments

Story-email Email Printer Print

Comments

Display:

Great preview!!!
this is better than anything you will see in the Chicago papers.

by chgobr on Dec 21, 2007 1:19 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Thanks, Diablo.
What's that Coach's Corner?  Is it Larry Brown every time?  Is it just the ESPN game?  I might suggest that Matt, et al, shield their eyes from it today, as Larry Brown had a lot of nice things to say about Aaron Gray.  Just kidding! (not about the Larry Brown part, though)

by alec on Dec 21, 2007 1:48 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

ending this once and for all
there. now stop it. it was one game. i just linked to 42 games that didn't make a goddamn difference in an extra unremarkable career.
Officially a hater on Ballhype!

by hscs on Dec 21, 2007 2:03 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Fine.
I don't mean to be a jerk about it...well, maybe a little bit of one.  I promise not to be the first to bring up Gray's name for the rest of the year.  But just answer this before I let it go--how many games, or what, name your criteria, do you need to see out of Gray before we can begin to make a reasonable assessment of what he brings the team?

by alec on Dec 21, 2007 2:18 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

for me, it's 4 months.
Tyrus gets 4 years.

This whole Gray thing is so sad, and indicitive of a team that's completely fallen below expectations. Maybe that's why I try and pee on any excitement over it.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 2:51 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I'm the negative Nancy and I'm hoping
Gray becomes the lumbering NBA surprise.  He is a big 7' 1".  I know he was playing in front of his parents Wednesday and this may be a one game phenom but he does seem to have the height, strength and desire to get rebounds as well as have significant low post skills.  What I find interesting is the positive comments from the players documented in another diary.  Matt - if he can demand double-team consideration, our guards could rise to our expectations.  I may be singing a different tune tomorrow, but at least until 6:10 tonight I've got hope.

by chgobr on Dec 21, 2007 3:04 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

stuff your promises in a sack
Officially a hater on Ballhype!

by hscs on Dec 21, 2007 3:01 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

fine. no promises.
What do you need to see out of Gray...or, let me put it this way, is there anything he can do that would demonstrate to you that he's not just another extra unremarkable nobody?  You've put him in a box and nothing will make you let him out?  

by alec on Dec 21, 2007 3:09 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Put up 20-10 every night for a month straight?
Let us prepare for glory! --Michael Redd

by tyger1147 on Dec 21, 2007 3:16 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

We used to have a guy who did that....

Then we sent him to LA for a BEAN POLE!

Sorry, still a little bitter.  :P

"Fans never fall asleep at our games, because they're afraid they might get hit by a pass." -George Raveling

by cubbybear on Dec 21, 2007 4:01 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

oh you're just a pinnacle of reason
It's totally unreasonable to not be excited, and be annoyed at the excitement over a guy who had an okay performance against a busted up Wiz squad... while the best rookie on the team tried to decipher the message Skiles was sending with a DNP.
Officially a hater on Ballhype!

by hscs on Dec 21, 2007 4:11 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

That's a ridiculous argument
I could link to Alonzo Mourning's stats, or Gilbert Arenas',  and it would have as little relevance as Othella.

by rexisourqb on Dec 21, 2007 6:53 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Bulls can win this
I had this game penciled in as an expected loss before the season, but the way we played Boston in Chicago, despite our pathetic start, was effective.  Three things hurt us in the first matchup.
  1. Garnett down the stretch.  He made every 4th quarter shot he had to make.
  2. Low Chicago FG%
  3. The small two, Glen Davis and Rajon Rondo, put up way better numbers than Chicago's defense can afford to allow.  Together they were 12-16 from the field, pulled in 4 OREB, 19 TREB, and had 5 assists.  Davis's buckets were OREB putbacks with Ben "the Statue" Wallace doing his best "no look defense" impersonation.
Pierce and Allen were 7 of 26 from the field, but 13 of 13 from the line.

So what do you do to win?

  1. Force Rondo to pass to Pierce.  The more Pierce has the ball the better your chances of defeating the Celtics.  He can't pass on open shots.  He thinks his dribble penetration game is excellent, but it's obvious he knows it's not as strong as it is and makes up for that with free throw begging arm flailing.
  2. Run.  Garnett is only an effective defender helping improve his teammates defense in half court sets.  In transition, Pierce and Allen aren't running back to stop anyone.
  3. Make Doc Rivers coach.  Jumping out early is a good way to force adjustments.
In the Chicago meeting the Celtics turned it over 17 times to the Bulls 9.  Despite this glaring advantage the Celtics managed to double our fast break point total of 5.

by NBA Observer on Dec 21, 2007 1:58 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Agreed on the
Rondo point.

I thought he really got the Celts going and helped them get off to the late ending surge.

Let's hope the other under-performing Ben (Gordon) has a better shooting performance or is at least benched for a player that can more adequately guard Rondo.

by RogersPark Kris on Dec 21, 2007 2:16 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Why not go big?
Skiles has been complaining about not enough minutes for too many guys.  Fine, try going with a line up of Hinrich, Deng, Noce, Thomas, Noah (preferred, though we know he'll go w/ Gray).  Not saying this should be the starting line up or one that gets a lot of minutes together.  Just, with Gordon struggling and guys needing minutes, this is a reasonable, creative way to do it.  Sure beats the hell out of those crappy "small ball" line ups he pulls out of his ass.

by snley on Dec 21, 2007 2:40 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

The Bulls should have won the first game.
They just couldn't hit their shots. I REALLY hope Hubie Brown calls this game. I think he is a basketball genius. You can tell how excited he gets when talking about the Bulls, especially Nocioni...I would rather Hubie coach instead of Larry Brown, if Skiles did get canned....speaking of which, does anyone remember how Jeff Van Gundy called him a great coach and said he would have a job tomorrow if he did get fired?....KEPP SKILES, FIRE THE BENS...thanks, happy holidays everyone...

by SlickRick76 on Dec 21, 2007 2:38 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Sounds Like A Great Idea!
Keep the horrible coach, trade 25 points a game, and keep Hinrich the Bum.  We're sure to win then!

by thurlawmen50 on Dec 21, 2007 3:13 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

What makes him a horrible coach?
Just because you think so? I think I'll take Van Gundy's word on this....Merry Christmas pal!

by SlickRick76 on Dec 21, 2007 3:16 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Just because he'd be immediately picked-up
by another team doesn't make him the right coach for this team, either.  It's not necessarily a bad thing for old coaches to move out and new coaches to move in.  In the Bulls case, Skiles may have too much at stake with Wallace and Smith to be able to sit them and give the younger guys a real opportunity.

by alec on Dec 21, 2007 3:27 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Well Let's See...
He clashes with everyone on the team that has an opinion that differs from his, he does not let the "futures" of the team get an opportunity to play and get better during game situations, and no big name star really wants to play for him...horrible coach.

by thurlawmen50 on Dec 21, 2007 3:24 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

If
this were about thirty years ago, I'm sure people would agree with his coaching, but this is the wrong day and age.

by thurlawmen50 on Dec 21, 2007 3:26 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Wow this thread
went down hill in a hurry. Let's see, if they win Gray had nothing to do with it and if they lose it will be all his fault. That pretty much covers it.

GO BULLS!!!

Please get this season turned around and play some great basketball.

by sue369 on Dec 21, 2007 3:48 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

If they win and Gray plays well
good.

If they win and Gray plays like crap, good.

If they lose and Gray plays well, don't care (how well could he possibly do).

If Aaron Gray plays well for several months, I'll be ready to give him 20 minutes.

If Aaron Gray gets 20 minutes and the team keeps at their terrible-ness, regardless of his sweet baby hook, I'll be super peeved.

If Aaron Gray gets 20 minutes and the team goes on a hell of a roll, I'll bow to his awesomeness.

I don't get why people can't just be happy with him doing what he can. Instead he has to be the answer to all our prayers. This team was supposed to make a run at the finals for chrissakes. I guess I don't hate Aaron Gray, just the symbol he represents...it's even worse than what Nocioni represents, because Nocioni is at least a proven slightly-above-average basketball player. Does this happen with fans of other teams?

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 3:58 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Oh, come now. Sue can learn.
Let us prepare for glory! --Michael Redd

by tyger1147 on Dec 21, 2007 4:17 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Sadly Matt
it doesn't matter what minutes anyone of us would give him. Skiles is the one doling out the minutes.

All I'm saying is he played well on Wed. night and deserves some recognition for that. If he continues to play like that good too. If he doesn't he won't be playing.

Please get this season turned around and play some great basketball.

by sue369 on Dec 21, 2007 4:53 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

A quote from Mr. Brown...
"With Wallace out, Andres Nocioni may have to guard Kevin Garnett."

I know Nocioni is the more experienced player, but wouldn't it be a better matchup to put a taller player on Garnett like Noah or TT? Just seems to me like Noc would get owned all night.

by RogersPark Kris on Dec 21, 2007 3:49 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

of course he would
They could try Joe Smith on him to start, then Noah, maybe some Luol.

Skiles will coach to make sure we're fighting an uphill battle. Makes the summit more satisfying.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 3:52 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I don't see any summit.
"Fans never fall asleep at our games, because they're afraid they might get hit by a pass." -George Raveling

by cubbybear on Dec 21, 2007 4:03 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

no kidding
Am I the only one thinking the Bulls are going to be embarassed tonight?

That Aaron Gray will come in for no reason (The C's don't have a similarly big slow dude to guard) and show just how far the talent gap is between the 2 teams?

Maybe it's just been the day's conversation that has me feeling this way. Again, this team seems to have a pathological desire to be overmatched. It's freaking depressing.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 4:07 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I'd like to see Thabo get some time
on Ray Allen, and show that he at least remembers how to play defense.  I think Luol matches up fine with Pierce, Hinrich more than matches up against Rondo, we can stick anyone we want on Perkins...and nobody can match up on Garnett, so you just try to make sure you use all your available fouls against him.  Noah and Thomas have about as good a chance disrupting Garnett as any couple of guys in the league, so I think they just have to keep trying to get in his way every second of the game...not that Garnett is likely to blow-up, a la Rasheed. I think the Bulls will play the Celts pretty well tonight.

by alec on Dec 21, 2007 4:19 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

You know
They do have Big Baby

by Option27 on Dec 21, 2007 5:43 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Am I the only one
No Matt, you're not alone.
If there's anything the Bulls HAVE been consistant about this year, it's that they lose after winning a game or two with no streak in them...except the losing kind.

The worst part about it is the WAY they lose...they usually keep giving some hope during the course of the game - only to lose it in the end.

The end.

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 6:31 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Just looked up Aaron Gray on
Wikipedia.
There is a nice quote about his nickname in it and I quote, "His seemingly effortless offensive game from 16 feet in earned the big man the moniker "Gravy", a fairly obvious homage to both his impressive paint and baseline scoring moves and the likeness of his surname to the popular sauce, gravy."
Maybe he will be better than Will Perdue, who interestingly was 30 pounds lighter than Gray.

by philosoball on Dec 21, 2007 5:43 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

And the Bulls come out shooting
...like crap...

No surprise...(sigh)

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 6:26 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Gonna be a long night
I really don't think you can play too much help defense on the Celtics. They pass too well and the shooters drain em every time

by Option27 on Dec 21, 2007 6:28 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Gonna be a long night
I really don't think you can play too much help defense on the Celtics. They pass too well and the shooters drain em every time

by Option27 on Dec 21, 2007 6:28 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

repeating yourself
Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 6:32 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

repeating yourself
Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 6:32 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

even as an ardent Nocioni defender
he's gotta come out.  Its not a good matchup at all obviously with Garnett (unless he can dunk on him like he did in the Olympics) and if he's not hitting open threes then he's not helping by gunning them up there with.  Thomas hopefully comes in during this time out.

by JSlakov on Dec 21, 2007 6:29 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Skiles is an embarassment
this team is an embarassment.

That starting lineup is a joke. No interior defense, no rebounding. All jump-shooters. Boston can do whatever they want on offense because they know the rebound will come to them. Bulls have to hit all their shots because it'll be the only one they get.

So while they have ten points in 7 minutes, who is sitting at the scorers table? Aaron Gray.

This team is a joke. I sound like JoeJoe it has me so mad.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 6:29 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Come on Matt
you know that you fantasize about being joejoe...
(kidding of course)   :-)
Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 6:34 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Bulls have to hit all their shots
But they aren't....so now what?

Why would you move Smith over (that's what Skiles did, right?) and not give TT or Noah or (gulp) Gray a shot?

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 6:36 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

huh?
do you mean 'why wouldn't you'?

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 6:45 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

thats gotta be the most retarded startomg lineup
one could come up with against the celtics

by lampnasty on Dec 21, 2007 6:30 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

P.J. Brown
I Don't think enough talk has been given to the impact of P.J. Brown leaving the Bulls.  He had a solid midrange game that really opened it up or tha guards. We don't really have anyone who has adaquetly replaced that.

by Cowboyjon on Dec 21, 2007 6:32 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Gray
I don't mind him out there, especially if it means they go to Perkins on offense but I'd love if Thomas was out there with him.

by JSlakov on Dec 21, 2007 6:34 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

It's already gotten old
watching noc throw bricks from the arc tonight
Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 6:38 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

always a fan favorite
big white, medium white and little white

by JSlakov on Dec 21, 2007 6:39 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Gray does do some pretty good things for us
He just needs a dominant defensive player playing PF to help out a bit. Kinda like Tyrus

by Option27 on Dec 21, 2007 6:40 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Didn't we have Posey and trade him?
I know we are down by 4 but I have a feeling this will be ugly. I like Gray and Thomas but we have no answer for Pierce.
TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Dec 21, 2007 6:42 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Bulls never had Posey
Maybe you're thinking of Bruce Bowen - they had him for about a day, before waiving him.

by Big D on Dec 21, 2007 6:45 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

That's right
That's right should have kept him
TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Dec 21, 2007 6:54 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Posey is always nasty
with the Bulls....can't STAND that dick
Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 6:45 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

does this team even run plays to end quarters?
or is it always just watch Gordon dribble for 20 seconds?

Except this time we got the 'pass it to Tyrus 25 feet from the basket' at the end of the clock.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 6:44 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

i doubt it
why would thomas even be standing out there if there was a play?  for a second it looked like he was actually going to take it to the basket for once.

by JSlakov on Dec 21, 2007 6:46 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

fuck skiles
NOCE is 0 for everything. How can u start him when he's been producing so well off the bench? Didn't we draft a center? It seems like skiles doesn't want noah to play well and force him to make a tough decision when big ben comes back.

by Blacknight23 on Dec 21, 2007 6:45 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Noc is even more gunnerlike than usual
I mean he is taking contested shots right when he gets the ball. It's strange. Maybe he's caught up in a duel with Pierce, heh.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 6:46 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Can't let this team run away from us
Skiles just said....what a moron...
Gee....ya THINK, Skiles??!!
Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 6:47 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Last Shot
That was the best we could get to end the quarter?

by Cowboyjon on Dec 21, 2007 6:47 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Still haven't seen Noah
WTF??
Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 6:48 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Oh wait...I saw him....
sitting on the bench again next to BG cleaning his fingernails and not even watching the game...

Awesome.

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 6:51 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I don't blame him
i barely want to watch.

I said it before: Noah and Tyrus need some of Kidd's fake migrane juice.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 6:58 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

notice it took foul
Trouble to get NOCE off the floor. Still no NOAH. At leasst thabo is getting some burn.

by Blacknight23 on Dec 21, 2007 6:50 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

TT was trying to avoid landing on that guy
how was that a taunt?
Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 6:52 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Agreed
I may turn this game off
TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Dec 21, 2007 6:56 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Like expected
See Matt - you're not alone...   :-)
Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 6:57 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

dream lineup
would it hurt to see Gray, Thomas, Deng, Gordon and Duhon out there?

by JSlakov on Dec 21, 2007 6:56 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Deng has 2 fouls
but why is Gordon on the bench with him?

Skiles hates field goals.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 6:57 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Hey...at least NOAH is in!!
Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 6:58 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Time for Skiles to put Khryapa in
And ask him to guard Paul Pierce.

by Big D on Dec 21, 2007 6:58 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Hinrich
Needs to go away, he has been exposed for what he is.
TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Dec 21, 2007 7:01 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Halfway through the second Q with 25 pts
and F'in Posey raining 3's...

F.

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 7:02 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

so Noah comes in
but it's with deng/sefolosha at 3/4.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 7:06 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

The really sad part
is that the startling lineup will spot the opponents at least 8 points every half. So they're screwed no matter what.

Man we have to fire this guy.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 7:06 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

The Bulls are fucking ridiculous.
And it isn"t Scott Skiles or fucking Aaron Gray.

Noce is playing like dogcrap tonight on both ends of the court. Quick shots early in the clock when he isn't in rhythm.

Luol stupidly got into early foul trouble and isn't playing well on the defensive end.

Tyrus and the rest are doing a deplorable job of guarding Posey.

Hinrich is fucking invisible when he isn't throwing the ball away.

No one can make a free throw.

"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 7:07 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Thabo might be the worst player in the league
It's sad to see how much he's regressed from last year.  It's like he's scared to even touch the ball now.

by Big D on Dec 21, 2007 7:10 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

and to boost his confidence
skiles finally gives him some minutes...against the celtics!

by alec on Dec 21, 2007 7:11 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I know
"Hey, you've barely played all season . . . go guard Paul Pierce now."

by Big D on Dec 21, 2007 7:13 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Let's see about this line up
BG, Du, Noah, TT and Deng...I actually like the idea
Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 7:11 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Hey, Tyrus and
Noah on the floor together.
"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 7:12 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

I like the line up now. too bad it took
Till we were down 20. TT wow. Why were u sitting anyway?

by Blacknight23 on Dec 21, 2007 7:12 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

The Bulls need to
play their youth for the rest of the season.

It's clear we aren"t going to even come close to the Finals this year.

Play Tyrus and Noah. Accelerate their development.

"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 7:16 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Noah...
You can't let yourself get pushed around like that.
"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 7:18 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Is it me
or are the refs favoring the C's?
Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 7:21 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Rondo outrebounding
the bulls entire starting line-up?  OMG!

by alec on Dec 21, 2007 7:22 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

The fouls they keep
calling for Perkins are absolute dogcrap.
"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 7:23 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

hubie brown is old as hell. perkins is on
The line and he hollering about garnett.

by Blacknight23 on Dec 21, 2007 7:24 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

I never did
and I don't care...he's got some talent as a big, beasty white boy...
Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 7:34 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

this team doesn't suck
because Aaron Gray plays a lot.

However, Aaron Gray playing alot is indicitive of a sucky team. For instance, this half.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 7:36 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I know this runs contrary to
Blogabull mantra, but Gray is playing well.

It's Hinrich and Deng who are no-shows tonight (thus far).

"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 7:25 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Oh, and Noce.
Noce has played horrendous basketball tonight.
"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 7:27 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

yeah he's doing ok
and they had a nice run to get down 'only' fifteen points. Even at his best he'll do enough to not get your team blown out. Although in Skiles terms that's a ringing endorsement. Do enough to stay close! Leads are for the weak!

This team is so freaking sad.

Skiles took until 4:30 left in the half to get some competent lineups together.

Nocioni sucks, Hinrich is missing.

Again, it's a willing disadvantage. Can't wait to give the rah-rah try harder halftime speech.

Then we'll see the super-jumpshooting lineup start the 2nd half and the lead will be 20+ for the rest of the game.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 7:31 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

and he scores AND passes
he'll have another DD tonight if he gets the minutes...
Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 7:28 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

double-doubles are completely overrated
Would I rather see Gray start than Nocioni/Smith? Sadly, yes.

this team is in shambles and more minutes for Aaron Gray won't help.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 7:33 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

more minutes for Aaron Gray won't help
Maybe not...it's a team sport.
But at least perhaps more points will end up on the score board.
Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 7:37 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

He's close the rim too!
Apparently this makes scoring easier.  He's UNSTOPPABLE!

After reevaluating his prospects, maybe he'll be the Bill Cartwright of the modern incarnation of the Bulls.  And that's something good to have.

"Fans never fall asleep at our games, because they're afraid they might get hit by a pass." -George Raveling

by cubbybear on Dec 21, 2007 7:35 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

more like Will Purdue
which is useful in it's own way. Just far far less so.

Also, they had Michael Jordan, so the rules are different.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 7:38 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Tyrus was Ok, too
except for the damn fouls...at least one of which was just KG fooling the refs

by alec on Dec 21, 2007 7:27 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Perhaps we will start the second half
with Smith on the bench.
"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 7:30 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Bill Walton just said the Bulls will not recover.
I feel better about their prospects, now.  Thanks, Billy!
"Fans never fall asleep at our games, because they're afraid they might get hit by a pass." -George Raveling

by cubbybear on Dec 21, 2007 7:31 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Will not recover from what?
The bad first half?

The slow start this season?

Something else?

"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 7:32 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

He didn't specify.
I would guess the slow start.
"Fans never fall asleep at our games, because they're afraid they might get hit by a pass." -George Raveling

by cubbybear on Dec 21, 2007 7:38 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

HAHAHA
Walton says: "the Bulls are worse than I thought...this is NOT gonna turn around".

Well, thank you very little, Bill F'in Walton...
We're so glad you're here to tell us these things!

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 7:31 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

just maybe he'll get enough
people laughing at the bulls to get the rebuilding underway in earnest.

by alec on Dec 21, 2007 7:33 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

rebuilding is romantic in theory
This team doesn't need more picks and rookie contracts.

The laughing will hopefully get Skiles canned.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 7:34 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Why can't we just play this lineup in the second
half?

Gordon
Hinrich
Deng
Tyrus
Noah/Gray

Just play it until TT fouls out.

"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 7:34 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Gray has been one of the Bulls' best players tonig
And they're down by 15.  It's not a knock on Gray; it's more an indictment of the other players.  If you need Aaron Gray to actually make a difference for you, then your team is in sorry shape.

by Big D on Dec 21, 2007 7:36 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

I think you just nailed Matt's
misplaced hatred of Gray.  Sorry, Matt, if I'm misinterpreting you....

by alec on Dec 21, 2007 7:38 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I didn't see it that way.
He was the only guy getting easy, high-percentage opportunities.  Camps three feet from the basket, like dopey Shaq with hair.  He's tall enough to prevent being fronted, and too big to be stopped.
"Fans never fall asleep at our games, because they're afraid they might get hit by a pass." -George Raveling

by cubbybear on Dec 21, 2007 7:40 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

UGH!!
Hopefully they play better in the second half. Noah needs to do better when he gets playing time.
Please get this season turned around and play some great basketball.

by sue369 on Dec 21, 2007 7:39 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

he wasn't terrible on KG
but he got pushed around pretty good by perkins

by alec on Dec 21, 2007 7:41 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

skiles at halftime
thank you microphones:

"we have to own the first 5-6 minutes"

But I bet we see the same lineup that couldn't own shit.

Again, success comes from effort, not talent.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 7:41 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

wow, skiles showed me
aaron gray's starting.

good that someone out there can rebound. Embarassing that Aaron Gray is a solution to anything.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 7:43 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Dan Schulman
Aaron Gray now has own play-by-play man on the ESPN broadcast. This guy, Schulman (I hope my spelling of his name is correct), has a love affair going with Gray. He finally let it slip that he spent a lot of time over the years watching and admiring Gray develop. He also found it quite convenient to be criticising Joakim Noah's free-throw shooting at the line. He was going on and on about Noah's unorthodox release until color commentator Hubie Brown stopped him in his tracks by telling him that Noah was shooting some 80% from the line with that much criticised release. Seems they're coming out of the woodworks.

by SlamDunk on Dec 21, 2007 7:52 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Damn, so close to the best lineup!
Just substitute Tyrus for Smith.

Maybe TT would have started but for the fouls.

"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 7:43 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Bulls free throw shooting
is not helping matters.

by rexisourqb on Dec 21, 2007 7:44 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Nor is ensign kirk's stupid passing TO's
in the lane
Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 7:46 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I am growing to hate our starting
backcourt.

Hinrich just throws the ball away.

"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 7:46 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

You just said you wanted hinbrick starting
the second half....
Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 7:47 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Who else is there?
I don't think Duhon or Thabo is better.
"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 7:48 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I won't argue with that.
"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 7:50 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Hinrich was a blur
Garnett needed to move his screen to block the streaking Iowan.  At this point, this are the silver linings.
"Fans never fall asleep at our games, because they're afraid they might get hit by a pass." -George Raveling

by cubbybear on Dec 21, 2007 7:48 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Ben Gordon's one on one
perimeter defense drives me insane.

I am sorry, but he gets beat too often down the lane.

"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 7:48 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

hinrich with another
impossible to catch pass

by alec on Dec 21, 2007 7:48 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Bulls are just passing the ball around the
perimeter with nothing being gained.  While Gray is there, they might as well use him.  I'd prefer having Noah and Tyrus in there instead.

As of this posting the Bulls have been outrebounded 31-13.  

by rexisourqb on Dec 21, 2007 7:49 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

OMG, two more consecutive
Hinrich turnovers.

Unreal.

"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 7:49 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

unfortunately
all too real.

He really has no idea what he's doing out there anymore. Mopey Iowan SOB.

This team is screwed if he's this bad, Gray or no Gray.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 7:51 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I can't believe I spent thousands of
dollars and countless hours of my life supporting the Bulls franchise for THIS.

I really thought 2007-2008 was the year to make the ECF.

"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 7:53 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Hey - I spent $2200 in ONE GAME
to watch the Bulls lose courtside in game 4 of the finals back in 1996 in Seattle...

'Course, they did win it all in the end....but STILL....   (sigh)

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 8:01 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

hirich's line:
assists plus turnovers equals points

by alec on Dec 21, 2007 7:53 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Duhon goes out of his way to prove
that he can be as useless as hinrich.  A dribble turnover followed by a useless hacking foul.

by rexisourqb on Dec 21, 2007 7:54 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Come on, Bulls, at least make it
competitive in the 4th.

Please.

"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 7:55 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Why the hell isn't Tyrus in?
"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 7:57 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

maybe that taunting technical
Sam Smith passed Skiles a note saying it was unprofessional.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 7:59 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Sned Noce back to the bench right
now.

Two possessions, two shitty plays.

He has nothing tonight.

"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 7:58 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

that ray allen layup
was guided by air traffic controller Aaron Gray :)

(can't resist putting him down when I can)

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 7:59 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Midway through the 3rd
and ESPN is already talking about how many opponents Boston has beat by 10+, as if that's another foregone conclusion.

I ask for Noah and Tyrus, and instead get Gray and Nocioni.  Predictably, the Bulls get beat inside immediately for a layup, then foul Pierce as he drives the lane.  Plus an extra FT for the Nocioni technical foul.

by rexisourqb on Dec 21, 2007 8:00 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

yup yup yup
this team plays to lose (or Skiles subs to lose, whatever)

2 more missed layups by Gray and Deng. Duh missed one on the last posession.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 8:01 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I think they figured ol' Aaron out
just got stripped.

Plus, it's not like we have a team adept at making entry passes. Seeing someone post up is like an alien lifeform to them :)

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 8:02 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

patented Noc late close-out
I'm only watching now to see Tyrus again. He's all I have.

Unfortunately it's fucking garbage time already.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 8:03 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

I don't know if it is a team strategy
or moronic individual decisions, but the Bulls unnecessarily sag off three point shooters more than ANY OTHER TEAM I HAVE EVER SEEN.

Jesus.

"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 8:04 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

That's how Nocioni plays defense
He just runs around like a chicken with his head cut off, while people praise him for showing "effort" and "hustle" and all that crap.

by Big D on Dec 21, 2007 8:06 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Nocioni
You nailed it. Couldn't put it better.LOL

by SlamDunk on Dec 21, 2007 8:53 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I think it feels worse than it is
They're a over-help defense and that's why they're good. But if they're not quick to rotate it gets them in trouble.

If only they had quick agile players to use!

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 8:06 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

bwahaha.
I take it all back, I love Aaron Gray because he just blatantly pushed Scott Pollard and got away with it. hahaha

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 8:05 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

I love that I could hear Pollard clearly
as he was complaining to the officials.

Gray has 3 offensive fouls, no on else on the Bulls has more than one.  Perkins has 3 and Rondo has 2 for Boston.

 The good thing about a big man with girth is that officials everywhere let them get away with more contact.  Since others naturally bounce off of them, officials could call a contact foul every play... but understandably don't want to.

by rexisourqb on Dec 21, 2007 8:10 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Fuck it
Let's just see a Tyrus/Noah/Gray frontcourt. See what happens

by Option27 on Dec 21, 2007 8:06 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

for the rest of the season.
with deng at sg and fill in the blank at the point

by alec on Dec 21, 2007 8:07 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

This is okay by me.
Ray Allen doesn't really handle, maybe Lu can do as well in that regard. Who "fills in the blank at the point"? Kirk for Andre Miller?

by marionette on Dec 22, 2007 6:15 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

is it just me
or is Tyrus handling the ball a lot, especially bringing it up the court.

He's actually not too bad, but I like to think it's his way of intentionally pissing Skiles off.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 8:07 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

He'd probably make better entry passes
and have fewer turnovers.   He'd be about as effective shooting from the perimeter too.

I hear Andre Miller is available from Philly.  I'd make that happen.

by rexisourqb on Dec 21, 2007 8:12 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

How much would you really have to give up to get
Miller?   That's the only reason that it's attractive to me.  We're closing in on 2 months into the season, it's about time we stop calling Hinrich's play a slump.  Duhon is clearly not the answer.

I'm not saying make the trade immediately, but it's a good time to make inquiries with an eye on the trading deadline.  I'd start with getting Hinrich a sports psychologist, though.

by rexisourqb on Dec 21, 2007 8:26 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Tyrus really loves to lead the break...
he is getting better at that with each game.

by GoldenThreePeat on Dec 21, 2007 8:08 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Love it
Skiles talking in the huddle while everyone's walking away...
HAHAHA   LOL!!
Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 8:12 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

That is the obvious proof
that Skiles has lost this team and it's time for him to go.

He might still be a good coach, but he's not the one for THIS team...

the end.

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 8:14 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I wouldn't go that far
NBA huddles usually have that kind of look.

But it's not evidence that he's the right coach...if that makes sense.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 8:16 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

anything that doesn't make sense with this team
makes sense....
if THAT makes sense...    :-)
Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 8:18 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

They could hear him
The coach isn't usually mic'd, so we don't notice this type of thing in other situations.

by rexisourqb on Dec 21, 2007 8:17 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Hey Salvatore
nobody cares if the clocks are working in this game. Just use the mercy rule.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 8:15 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Bulls shooting 64% from the line
If they made those 9 missed free throws, they'd only be down by 16.

by rexisourqb on Dec 21, 2007 8:15 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

at least they had 9 attempts
tis better to have attempted and bricked, than not have attempted at all.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 8:16 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

The Bulls probably broke the clocks . . . .
from shooting so many bricks tonight.

by Big D on Dec 21, 2007 8:16 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

what Hubie forgets to mention
in his 'nights like this happen' speech, is that this is happening every week.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 8:18 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Then I'll take it that
You don't think Hubie is the coach of the future.
"Fans never fall asleep at our games, because they're afraid they might get hit by a pass." -George Raveling

by cubbybear on Dec 21, 2007 8:19 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

NOOOOOOOOOOOO
I never thought of that until you mentioned it...
I fell off my couch in fear when I read it!

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 8:22 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Hinrich had one particulary damaging shot that
bounced over the backboard.
"Fans never fall asleep at our games, because they're afraid they might get hit by a pass." -George Raveling

by cubbybear on Dec 21, 2007 8:18 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Skiles...Gray has played the whole 3rd...
why is Noah still on the bench?

by GoldenThreePeat on Dec 21, 2007 8:19 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

more minutes means that
Gray's counting stats get inflated. Then we can get another day of articles saying what a wonderful story this is, and fewer stories saying Skiles has no idea what to do.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 8:20 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Skiles
I think this game will prove Skiles" undoing.

by SlamDunk on Dec 21, 2007 8:34 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Noah didn't look that good
during the time he was in there tonight
Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 8:20 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Noah
You expect him to look good when his coach really doesn't want him there and is looking for a cause to pull him. You're trying to defend psycho Skiles. He's killing yoing players like Noah and Thomas.

by SlamDunk on Dec 21, 2007 8:25 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

If he had shot 4-4 for free throws
instead of 1-4, he would have looked fine.  All the same, he didn't get enough time in there to make a judgement.

by rexisourqb on Dec 21, 2007 8:31 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Free throw
Check his free throw percentage before you make a foolish point. Gray missed his first two free throws and he's a good free throw shooter. Noah uncharacteristically missed his first two after getting up from a hard foul which obviously took his wind away. He made one of two on his next trip to the line. Are you saying Noah is not a good free throw shooter?

by SlamDunk on Dec 21, 2007 8:39 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Do you even know how to read
or comprehend what you do read?  I made zero reference to Noah's season free throw percentage or ability to shoot free throws.  None at all, and that has nothing to do with what I was saying.

Nor do I care if he was winded since I was only referring to what he did, not why he did it.  Also, that's a ridiculous point since 2 minutes of playing time and a foul isn't enough to wind a professional athlete.  People take much harder fouls all the time and they still hit their free throws afterwards.

I simply stated matter of factly that he got so little time on the floor up until that posting, that something as little as 3 missed free throws could change your perception of how effective he was.  I was actually defending Noah, which you would have noticed if you weren't racing to put up your word porn so that you could plesure yourself to it later.

Then you came in with some utter nonsense about me "making a foolish point".  Please tell me, in English this time, what is foolish about stating that a 4 for 4 performance would have made his brief stint more effective than a 1-4 performance?  

by rexisourqb on Dec 21, 2007 9:15 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Stupid
You're obviously a fool, judging from your response. Getting personal? I'd bet you that I can teach you how to read and comprehend English.

by SlamDunk on Dec 22, 2007 4:03 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Skiles the vindictive
I hope John Paxon is aware that he has a coach who is so stupidly vindictive that he risks damaging players' confidence and competitive spirit.

I didn't see this mentioned, but I wasn't surprised to find that small-minded Skiles was punishing Noah by not playing him against the Lakers, and little since, because Noah had arrived late for a shootaround last Tuesday at the United Center. Noah explained that his tardiness was because of bad traffic. It's interesting that Noah was one of six players late for that shootaround (I wonder who the other five players were, and their punishment}. Asked about his decision to bench Noah, the psycho said, "We have a fine system in place for (tardiness)."

by SlamDunk on Dec 21, 2007 8:20 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Man, the irony
Doc Rivers gets the puff interview to start the 4th, enjoying the huge success.

And he's a worse coach than Skiles. I suppose it's Pax's fault that he can't make a coach-proof team :)

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 8:23 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Rivers
Good point Matt, Rivers is one of the worst coaches in the game and he's getting all the plaudits. Wait 'till playoff time.

by SlamDunk on Dec 21, 2007 8:27 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Bulls shooting 38% again tonight
that pretty much sums it up.

Don't remember seeing ANY games when a team won shooting 38%...

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 8:24 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Khyrapa sighting?
"Fans never fall asleep at our games, because they're afraid they might get hit by a pass." -George Raveling

by cubbybear on Dec 21, 2007 8:24 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Hubie: "they can't stop Aaron Gray"
True enough, but then he (slowly) fouled on the other end.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 8:25 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Gray is just sucking wind
Get him an oxygen tank or something.  He's slow enough when he's rested, but he's played the entire second half so far.

by Big D on Dec 21, 2007 8:26 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

I dunno
Granted, Hinrich/Deng didn't play well, but who knows what their start could've been if they had a complementary frontcourt alongside them, instead of two more jumpshooters.

eh, they'd probably still be bad, but at least we'd remove that variable.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 8:27 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

and he probably misses the bulls.
I check for his line every once in a while and he hardly ever seems to have one.

by alec on Dec 21, 2007 8:29 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Pisses me off
seeing the "core" on the bench after blowing the game and getting the rest of the night off...
with Wallace warming the seat behind them.

ugh.

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 8:28 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

ewww. 5 on Thomas
That's a return to last year's Tyrus.

Too bad he's in garbage time, so for all we know he's just gunnin for steals/blocks for the heck of it. Jumpshots too.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 8:28 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

This is embarrassing.
And so far as I can tell, there is nothing that can be done about it.
"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 8:29 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

who knows what would've happened
if Skiles started the season with Hinrich/Gordon/Deng/Tyrus/Wallace.

Had Noc/Noah (offense/defense) as first big off the bench.

Had Sefolosha as first guard off the bench.

And didn't fucking tinker after the 5th game, the 12th game, the 20th game...

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 8:34 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Jimmy Johnson's my hero
he's got the fan club of hot women...
AND he's got a hot MILF....

At least that's what the commercial says...   :-)

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 8:30 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Why is Ray Allen still
in the game late in a blowout?  Didn't he just return from an injury too?

by rexisourqb on Dec 21, 2007 8:32 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Noticed that too
Thought that was pretty crappy.

by Jaina on Dec 21, 2007 8:58 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Wow
We just got raped.

I fucking hate Boston teams too.

by RogersPark Kris on Dec 21, 2007 8:33 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

If Boston represents the best
of the East, it's clear that Detroit can play with them, but the haples Bulls aren't even remotely close.

It's so disgusting. I hope Paxson is as sickened as I am tonight.

I can only conclude that the rest of the East improved while the Bulls regressed. It's inexplicable and nauseating.

What the hell is the point of even watching the rest of the season?

Moreover, I just somehow feel that the Bulls will end up losing Tyrus and Deng, the only two players they have with true "All-Star" potential.

"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 8:34 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Addendum.
"Hapless"

and

I meant the Bulls would lose those two players over the next three offseasons.

"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 8:36 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

On the bright side...
...they're 2 & 0 against Detroit. :)
Let us prepare for glory! --Michael Redd

by tyger1147 on Dec 21, 2007 10:01 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

A-Drain and Kyrapa!
Swingmen of the future!
"Fans never fall asleep at our games, because they're afraid they might get hit by a pass." -George Raveling

by cubbybear on Dec 21, 2007 8:35 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

see, tomorrow
would've made more sense for the Aaron Gray show, as he could match up with Yao.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 8:36 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

The Bulls just look
completely confused.  

by alec on Dec 21, 2007 8:37 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

They look like a HS
team.
"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 8:39 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

man
do I hate Paul Pierce's face.  I hate everything about that guy.

by fundamentallysound on Dec 21, 2007 8:38 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Jesus
The Celtics' scrubs are kicking the Bulls asses.  And Boston was supposed to have one of the worst benches in the league.

by Big D on Dec 21, 2007 8:39 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Skiles
Skiles is trying to destroy Noah's confidence by giving him garbage time with scrubs. He did this in the Bulls' last game. This guy must go!

by SlamDunk on Dec 21, 2007 8:42 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Without addressing the merits of firing
Skiles, let me say that I think it is highly unlikely that Paxson will do so any time soon.

I think he is more likely to make a trade.

And that is EXACTLY WHAT TRULY TERRIFIES me.

I can easily see a scenario where the "difficult" Tyrus Thomas is traded away for some aging, useless veteran.

That will be the end of me as a Bulls fan.

"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 8:43 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

as HSCS said
that's the doomsday scenario.

Pax has been called too reluctant to trade talent away, so I hope he doesn't reach now for Skiles' sake.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 8:44 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

In SI magazine this week, a guy consulted
about the trade environment, he specifically said that the Bulls were unwilling to trade Tyrus.  I don't think that trading him is likely.  Gordon and Deng are both more likely.
"Fans never fall asleep at our games, because they're afraid they might get hit by a pass." -George Raveling

by cubbybear on Dec 21, 2007 8:51 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I'd say Gordon is quite likely
because he can probably fetch a bit.

I'd only trade Thomas for a proven front-line guy. And given Pau's year so far I'm not even as cool with that idea as I once was.

Maybe it's due to the relative suckfest around him, but with Thomas you actually see something special.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 8:53 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

That's somewhat conforting...
but I just feel a clusterfuck trade in the offing.

Paxson is yoked to Skiles, he loves Skiles personally, he appreciates Skiles ethos, they have the same approach to basketball and life.

I just see Tyrus being traded. He and Deng are the only potential dominating forces we have, in my opinion. Despite the general negativity the media directs towards him, Tyrus has improved quite a bit this season. He passes well, he plays under more control, he rebounds, his shooting is better, etc.

"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 8:57 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

If we trade anyone, I wish
it would be one of the two guards.
"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 8:52 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

I dislike the Boston Celtics
I hate their colors.
I hate their stupid floor.
I hate their coach.
I hate James Posey.
And I hate hate hate that they are kicking our ass tonight.

Next game starting lineup based on performance:

Duhon
Gordon
Thomas
Gray

and.....uh noone else played well enough to give them a spot.  We should play short-handed just because noone else deserves to play.

Whoa, Griffin just missed a wide-wide-open 8 foot jumpshot.  Revoke his man card.  Ditka("God" to some) has already removed his skills.

"Fans never fall asleep at our games, because they're afraid they might get hit by a pass." -George Raveling

by cubbybear on Dec 21, 2007 8:41 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

It is so sad to think that we could have had
KG down low with (a then enthusiastic) Ben Wallace.
Just KG's intensity alone can almost will you to win.

And has anyone seen how BAD Minnesota is this year without him?

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 8:49 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

well, 'could have'
in the sense IF McHale was willing to trade KG last year.

They weren't, so it's tough to say the Bulls missed out.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 8:52 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

True.
But I still think that Pax - if he had REALLY wanted to - could have made that happen....SOMEhow...
Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 8:56 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

No point in lamenting
what could have been, I suppose.

The real question is: what can the Bulls do going forward to salvage this season and this franchise?

"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 8:53 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

The Bulls are losing by nearly 30.
Again.

I am starting to wonder if the Bulls will even make the playoffs.

"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 8:49 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

maybe they can slide in as an 8 seed
and play Boston!  If that's where this team is headed, I'd rather play all the young guys and get in the lottery.

by alec on Dec 21, 2007 8:52 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

PLAYOFFS? PLAYOFFS?
WE'RE JUST TRYING TO WIN A GAME!
"Fans never fall asleep at our games, because they're afraid they might get hit by a pass." -George Raveling

by cubbybear on Dec 21, 2007 8:53 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

er
during the game. Stupid early start.
Officially a hater on Ballhype!

by hscs on Dec 21, 2007 8:54 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

box score treasure-hunting
Gordon had 8 FTAs tonight.

(it's more like hunting in kitty litter, actually)

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 8:55 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

This might have been Hinrich's worst game
And that's saying something.  2 points on 1-5 shooting, 4 turnovers, and a -20!  So much for him getting out of his slump.

by Big D on Dec 21, 2007 8:58 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

The supposed trademark of this team
is hustle and defense.

I saw none of either tonight.

The team is crap and this game was an insult to Bulls' fans everywhere.

I am infuriated (if that isn"t obvious).

"We goin' to the 'ship!" - LSU IS IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

by 1958ChiTown on Dec 21, 2007 9:00 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

What's worse
is that every game as of late, the Bulls are finding a NEW low.

Just how much worse can it get than Norm and Gill saying this is the worst they've seen the Bulls play since...?

What's it gonna take to get Pax to do SOMETHING???

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 9:02 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

he can't do anything worthwhile
except fire the coach, which I doubt he will. Plus I'm not sure that's exactly worthwhile either.

It'd be so much easier if the core guys were at least playing average so their trade value wasn't shit. I doubt Nocioni+prospect gets you anything.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 9:04 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Us even having this conversation
was the FARTHEST thing from my mind in preseason.
Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 9:08 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

yeah no kidding
just keep reminding yourself that this roster is still young, and relatively cheap. If Deng&Gordon signed those extensions...my god.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Dec 21, 2007 9:10 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

As much as I've pumped up Aaron Gray,
I'm beginning to think there's a way that him playing well actually hurts the team...by confusing the guys about what kind of a team they're supposed to be.  

by alec on Dec 21, 2007 9:17 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah god forbid this team have a player
who has any basketball IQ!

by steve26 on Dec 21, 2007 9:26 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Unfortunately, I still don't see how we get
more for our money than getting Gordon and Deng to sign those previously offered extensions.  The Bulls could save that money and get no one, but I don't see any obviously better free agents available.

by rexisourqb on Dec 21, 2007 9:19 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Paxon
It's beginning to look as if Skiles has some dirt on Paxon, maybe dirty pictures, uncompromising situations, who knows, but I'm sure that it must be damaging. How else could he be getting away with murder?

by SlamDunk on Dec 21, 2007 9:17 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

uncompromising situations you say?
I was in one of those the other day when I saved 27 puppies from a fire.
Officially a hater on Ballhype!

by hscs on Dec 21, 2007 9:24 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Here's an idea?
Maybe Pax is more worried about HIS job??

Hey - it could happen...

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Dec 21, 2007 9:24 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Pax
should be worried about his job.  He has built a team with too many players that do one thing (shoot jumpers) and not enough that do the other necessary things (drive to the rack, grab rebounds, or have a post game).  He also hired a coach that obviously has mismanaged the talent that he has provided him with.  Pax put together a very flawed team and hired a coach that has only exposed those flaws rather than finding ways to maximize the talent of the players he has.  A bad job all the way around.

by fundamentallysound on Dec 21, 2007 9:37 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

How can you be in the NBA
and not be able to do suck simple things.

by steve26 on Dec 21, 2007 10:01 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

correction
Should have said "compromising" not "uncompromising"

by SlamDunk on Dec 21, 2007 10:07 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Scary stat: Aaron Gray
had the most field goals on out team tonight.

by philosoball on Dec 21, 2007 9:23 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Wait til other teams figure out he can't
jump higher then 2 inches. Then we're really ucked.

by steve26 on Dec 21, 2007 9:32 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Funny I don't remember Larry having to
take it to the hole with guys that have 42 inch verticals! Last I checked Birds shot was alot better than Gray's.

by steve26 on Dec 21, 2007 10:00 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

well then
you're not remembering correctly.

by JSlakov on Dec 21, 2007 10:44 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

This loss reminds me of that loss to KG's
T-wolves right when Tim '' Don't call me Jerry's boy'' Floyd was fired right before Christmas. He was like I have to get the F outta here. Damn!

Did you guys see when they had Skiles wired? He said come on guys lets get some scrappy hussle points and I don't think one Bull gave one thought about what he was saying to them. The body language was unreal all night. This team if full of losers!

Then all night we had to hear Skiles main concern was scoring points and thats confidence from your head coach. I don't think we can score enough? Who thinks like that? Oh yeah people who most likely fail.

Whats with KG all off the bench during the 4th in a blow out loss what kinda bs is that. Not once tonight did the Bulls play like grown ass man. Cowards. I just don't think half the players even care anymore.

 Joe Smith kicking back with KG in a blowout during the game talking about the good old days.

Tyrus Thomas has two options turn into the next Stromile Swift or just watch some film of good players like Scottie Pippen and work hard and play like a pro. That was BS from him. Something is wrong with his brain.

I have never seen a team play like that I was hoping they would cancel the game after the 3rd.

Back then atleast we had The Mayor and Trenton Hasslle!

by steve26 on Dec 21, 2007 9:57 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Are you fucking serious?
Ben Wallace decided his bone spurs are bothering him and he wouldn't play Friday. Said he will reassess for Saturday. Tyrus Thomas was in the locker room pregame with headphones (an Ipod?) singing. It wasn't a pretty sight. Andres Nocioni had so much wrapping and ice going I asked if he was hurt. He said he's doing great, I think.

Sam Smith sucks dick.

Let us prepare for glory! --Michael Redd

by tyger1147 on Dec 21, 2007 10:03 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Agreed that was the worst read I have had in a
long time. How does this guy have a job? It was more about himself than the Bulls. He thinks so highly of his own writting it discusts me. The tribure should hire Matt- Brownie points.

by steve26 on Dec 21, 2007 10:06 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Can this get any worse?
As I was reading the comments here I had my TV on the Clippers-Mavs game in the background when all of a sudden I hear Stuart Scott say, "Me and Bill could have beat the Bulls tonight".  Ouch!  I've been living in Jersey for the past 6 years and these kind of insults are usually reserved for the Knicks.  Ironically, the Bulls haven't been much better this year.

by bigballa10 on Dec 21, 2007 10:07 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

I swear to god when they hit 22 points it seemed
like that number never moved until like 2 minutes left in the half. I just seemed like days. I can't wait til we get an NBA team again. Maybe we can make the Final four this year. We have an awesome collage team.

by steve26 on Dec 21, 2007 10:12 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

I hope we're not in the SEC or ACC
Those teams would kill us now!
"Fans never fall asleep at our games, because they're afraid they might get hit by a pass." -George Raveling

by cubbybear on Dec 22, 2007 1:47 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

college
Yes I went.

by steve26 on Dec 21, 2007 10:13 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Gray
Beware of this Aaron Gray phenomenon. The first time I really got to take a look at that 7 ft. goliath, I was intrigued. It all came tumbling down at  Madison Square Garden in March of this year when Pittsburgh played Georgetown in the Big East tournament final.
Matched up against Roy Hibbert, he disappeared, making one of 13 shots in scoring three points as Georgetown blew out Pittsburgh 65-42. I know players can have a bad night, but you had to be there to see the disappearing act. It wasn't about shots not falling, it was the fact that he was intimidated by the matchup with Hibbert and lay down. I think many scouts saw what I saw and that played a prime role in his stock tumbling and his ending up in the second round of the draft.

by SlamDunk on Dec 21, 2007 10:29 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

Gray
Maybe,he's put on some weight. What I noticed was how fatigued he looked as Skiles gave him all those minutes on the floor. You've got to know how to use a giant like that, but Skiles is such an idiot, and so bent on proving a point, that he hurt Gray's overall effectiveness. He's not an athlete, and the longer you play him, the less effective he'll be. I saw him badly trailing a lot of plays down the floor. I don't blame Gray, I blame the idiot Skiles.

by SlamDunk on Dec 21, 2007 10:54 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs

This was too painful to post during the game
I am in shock at how poorly we played.  I am holding onto the thread that Gray may help us if they can figure out how to use him properly.  

by chgobr on Dec 22, 2007 8:01 AM CST reply actions   0 recs

This game went wrong in so many
ways you can't just blame one player or even Skiles. They all played like CBA players and I was embarrassed to be a Chicago Bulls fan. The fucking Celtic back ups were killing the Bulls.

This game was even more damaging because of the fact Skiles will blame the defensive effort and here comes Wallace back from his injury hogging all the minutes leaving the Bulls back to where they were. By the way Skiles (dumbass), Noc and Joe Smith should never be playing the fucking 5, how many times will you trot out the "small ball lineup" , let it get owned on the offensive and defensive boards before it gets through your thick skull that its a terrible defensive lineup for a team built around defense.

The Bulls can beat a fluctuating Rockets team, but it's disheartening to know that they are so behind the top teams. Which makes no fucking sense since they were able to beat the Pistons twice already.

Bulls will have to continue to live and die

by RogersPark Kris on Dec 22, 2007 9:13 AM CST reply actions   0 recs

Got cut off...
I meant to say, no matter who our coach ends up to be, if Gordon and Hinrich can't play well NBA basketball, the Bulls will live and die with their struggles. Having both of the play poorly is a end all dagger.

by RogersPark Kris on Dec 22, 2007 9:18 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

Just when I thought
it couldn't get any worse...it did.
Please get this season turned around and play some great basketball.

by sue369 on Dec 22, 2007 9:21 AM CST reply actions   0 recs

ugly
that was a brutal loss to say the least. hinrich's play this season has been pathetic, and that is putting it lightly.  like many have said before, he is the barometer of the team... better he plays, better the bulls chances are, but when he plays like he did last night, we dont have much of a chance.  i have been watching the bulls for a long time and i cant remember any current or former bull regressing as badly as he has.  can anyone think of anyone worse?
but i still cant agree with breaking up the core or firing the coach... i dont see much of a point because we wouldnt get much back for any of our guys and skiles is struggling with getting the right group out there, but that has to do more with the inconsistent play of basically everyone on the team.  i've said it before, and i'll say it again... unexpected bad seasons happen, its just part of the deal with pro sports, especially with a younger team with no true leader.  it comes out of nowhere and blindsides the team, and they are playing catch up the rest of the season. hopefully this is just a fluke because we have all seen what this group is capable of, but they need work, so pax needs to figure it out

by Conor on Dec 22, 2007 10:55 AM CST reply actions   0 recs

That is an interesting perspective
It could be we stink this year, regroup, get a decent draft pick and have a banner year next year.  I still think we need to see if Aaron Gray is part of the solution. So far, I like him.  Some see him as slow.  I see him a deliberate, under control with good basketball IQ.  His stock went down with the terrible game against Roy Hibbert.  I think there is opportunity here.  One terrible game doesn't mean he is terrible.  MJ had some bad games (even though I can't think of any at this moment).  I'm obviously not comparing him to MJ but he does play tall and is tall.  Let's see if he can be part of the turn-around we are hoping occurs, even if it is next year.

by chgobr on Dec 22, 2007 11:08 AM CST up reply actions   0 recs

glad we have gray
gray is not going to solve all of our problems, but he is certainly progressing well, and there is no doubt he provides some relief for the offense.  i think once wallace comes back skiles will have to consider throwing gray and wallace out there for the starting lineup.  as long as gray doesnt all of the sudden s*** the bed, thats not a bad front court, but that also depends on wallace playing well when he returns.  gray will be good, if not great, if he stays on top of his conditioning and keeps working hard on his game.  if he could drop some weight, it may help a little with the lack of speed, which is his biggest weakness.

by Conor on Dec 22, 2007 11:38 AM CST reply actions   0 recs

What
lottery player would you guys want most coming out this year. I would like to get OJ Mayo.

by eross226 on Dec 22, 2007 2:36 PM CST reply actions   0 recs

If we could get Mayo who do you trade
to get him minutes?  Who would you want to get in the trade?

by chgobr on Dec 22, 2007 2:47 PM CST up reply actions   0 recs