Patience is a virtue. Unless it's John Paxson's patience, which is apparently dumb.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Jun 26, 2007 8:24 PM CDT in News Comment 88 comments

[Reminder: Draft party. Be there. Better yet, send me an email saying you will. ]

Kelly Dwyer knows Bulls basketball (he reads this blog, after all), so it's not surprising that he grades John Paxson very highly in his GM (er...personnel bosses) rankings:

Pluses: Paxson has shown unyielding patience while creating a young, dynamic and sometimes-explosive roster filled almost entirely with players who have gone deep into the NCAA tournament, NBA playoffs or international play. As a result, the Bulls consistently field one of the youngest rotations in basketball, and they've still been in the playoffs three years running. Because of Paxson's ability to spend wisely, draft carefully and not cash his chips in early, the Bulls have long been a preferred trade target for teams looking to unload unhappy superstars -- though Paxson's greatest scores have come from taking advantage of Knick president Isiah Thomas' lust for players who can fill up highlight reels but have issues when it comes to making an efficient dent in the box score (Eddy Curry and Jamal Crawford).

Minuses: Paxson's perceived faults depend entirely on how you view pro basketball. On the surface, Chicago is desperate for a low-post threat. Paxson actually traded away one of the NBA's finest young low-post threats in Curry in October 2005, but Curry wouldn't have played another game for the Bulls because he refused to take a DNA test for a heart problem. His issues with defense, rebounding and turnovers were also wearing thin. Paxson also traded away Tyson Chandler after acquiring Ben Wallace last summer. While Chandler had a better per-minute statistical year in '06-07, Wallace's ability to stay on the floor without fouling and help limit Chicago's turnovers was a strong improvement over Chandler's play. Paxson also turned down a reported deal in February that would have sent Ben Gordon, Luol Deng, and P.J. Brown to Memphis for Pau Gasol, but trading three starters for one is never a smart move.

Bottom line: Paxson has created a team reminiscent of the Cleveland Cavaliers from 15-20 years ago -- a club full of well-meaning and talented players who might be missing the superstar needed to lead them to the next level. Those Cavs cashed in some assets for Danny Ferry, fresh out of Duke. Here's hoping Paxson, should he decide to gamble a bit, finds a better return.

My gods, an NBA commentator who actually gets the Curry and Chandler deals. Not saying you have to agree with the moves, but I've read a lot (and now that I think about it, it's mostly from dopes on message boards so I probably shouldn't mind) of blustering over how anyone could consider those moves sound.

I'll move on to a shot at my former colleague Casey Holdahl of Oregonlive, who for one thing has the strange tendency to get personally offended when he reads a slight regarding his Blazers' trade values (god forbid fans think the overpaid and relatively unstable Zach Randolph should only be acquired for lesser value). Here's his quip over Paxson's ranking:

inability or unwillingness to get any substantial trades done over the last few years is going to come back to bite that franchise

Except trading the entire team since his arrival and signing a max-level free agent, spot on.

Nobody knows for sure what Pax has actually 'passed' on. Some reports have come out lately that Chandler, Deng, and the '06 pick was offered for KG...which a year later seems like a swell proposal for the TWolves and pretty daring by Pax. It was rumored that the Gasol talks stalled with the Grizzlies demand of Brown, Deng, Thabo, and the '07 pick, which could've submarined the team for the 2nd half of the season (remember, a hurt Nocioni means a lot of Adrian Griffin at the 3....or tiny-ball lineups). If you don't like that deal, then don't complain that the man is too patient. Unless you want to embarrass yourself like Bill Simmons:

I still think they should have traded for Gasol, although it's clear that Luol Deng is untouchable at this point -- I'll admit it, I definitely underestimated his talents -- but still, they couldn't have gotten Memphis to bite for Thabo Sefolosha, Tyrus Thomas, expiring contracts and the Knicks' pick?

Uh, apparently not, dipshit. All indications are that Deng had to be in the deal. So don't commend him for holding on to Deng (at least John Hollinger sticks to his guns and says he'd still trade Deng for Gasol...although we know it wasn't just Deng, but anyway...) while whining that he didn't get a Gasol deal done. And furthermore, how does the blasting of Pax for having 'no balls' make any sense with simultaneously criticizing the Chandler deal and Wallace aquisition?

(Granted, first and second-guessing is part of the fun of being a fan, but it bothers me when people are so damned arrogant about it. Would anybody be against this, Bill?)

Maybe it turns out Pax will have held his cards too long. Maybe not. But some dose of Pax patience could do us all some good in the next few weeks. Something big could happen but it doesn't mean it will, and doing something minor is still better than making a roster-paralyzing mistake. That's not always the case, but the Bulls have a good team going as is.

I may differ with some here with just how much longer to wait, as I think the Wallace signing makes the next couple years and perhaps only next year their best shot at making real playoff noise. But even with the most strict timetable, that still leaves this entire offseason and upcoming trade deadline to make that last big move. Labeling Pax now as too-patient until then just seems silly to me.

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That trade stuff kills me

In the strange world of the NBA most blockbuster trades end up not being blockbusts. A trade only makes sense if it benefits both parties. For instance, all those Randolph trades the Blazer fans promote clearly benefit Portland and not the Bulls. (If he's so great, why don't you guys hang on to him and let Greg Oden and LA mature a little bit before making them carry your team? Hmm?)

And shouldn't Jerry West get blamed for asking too much for Gasol? That's what kills me, blame Pax for the trade failure, and not West. West's done nothing much with the Grizzlies so maybe he should be blamed for overvaluing and overpaying his own player.

And sometimes, the best trades are the ones you don't make.

by KT on Jun 26, 2007 8:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

good point on

West

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 26, 2007 10:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ben Wallace shouldn't be the timetable

er determine the timetable. Gordon, Deng, Hinrich, and Thomas are going to hit their respective primes around the same time. A productive Ben Wallace would be a condiment on the pie at that point.

by Paxson Jackson on Jun 26, 2007 8:50 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

true, but

Fifteen million is too expensive for condiment.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Jun 26, 2007 8:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I suppose I should say more...

I think they can have 2 timetables, one with Wallace and one after him, given the youth of the rest of the core.

But I'm not as forgiving if no 'shot' is taken with Wallace still near his peak.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Jun 26, 2007 8:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

oh, I'm talking about

the ultimate timetable. I'm all for an offensive fix now.

by Paxson Jackson on Jun 26, 2007 10:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree more with the first point

It hurts to think we'd spend 15 million and not make the most of that player's (dwindling?) prime, but it wouldn't kill me. Wallace helped the Bulls step up this year and has a lot to teach Ty. Thomas needs to learn how to stay on the floor and hang in the block against bigger forwards, and if Wallace can help him learn how to do that, he'd still be worth the money to me.
Maybe your post just upped my patience threshold, I don't know.

by Old Skool Sloan on Jun 27, 2007 8:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

definitely

Wallace should, at the very least, provide us with a VERY valuable trade chip in two year's time.
If we manage to get a suitable big this year (through draft or non-roster-gutting trade) w/ some tread left on his tires, we can expect to compete for a 5-year window. As is, we have a rock solid line-up from our 1-4 through the next 4 years. More importantly, all elements of this portion of our team is just beginning to scratch the surface of its peak production.
At this point, Paxson would be CRAZY to gut the team for all but a scant few players ... and Kobe and KG don't qualify. The wisest move is to sit back and only bite on reasonable offers.
oh, and bill simmons has "jumped the shark". I think that's official, can we all just agree on this? I would think the Ewing Theory applies here. ...ok, I'll stop now.

by CookDing on Jun 26, 2007 10:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Since Kelly mentioned the comparison

to the Cavs again. I'll use them as an analogy. I didn't think the Cavs fit very well. The Cavs tems in the 90s had Price, Daugherty, and Nance, but little else. But in 88-89 Cleveland had a young team with four very solid 3rd year players and a veteran. Then they freaked out when their 57 win team loses to Jordan and a 47 win Bulls team in the 1st round and trade Ron Harper and 2 1st round picks for Danny Ferry. I doubt Cleveland would have beat those Bulls teams with Ron Harper. But, it certainly would have helped to have an athletic defensive 2 guard. They eventually still won 50+ games twice, but were never as good as they were in 88-89. It's alot easier to make your team worse than make it better in trades. I know Paxson wants to make a trade for a star, but he clearly understands the risks.

by Scotter on Jun 26, 2007 9:30 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Considering the guys on the team now

I much prefer the patient Pax to one who traded away the core of the team for garbage from other teams, just for the sake of making a deal. Kind of funny that people will gripe about trading away Curry and Chandler while at the same time arguing that he's too conservative.

"They had me do a psychology test and I asked Coach Skiles if that affected his coaching. He laughed and said, `No way.'" (Joakim Noah)

by wjb1492 on Jun 26, 2007 9:50 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Pax is doing just fine

He made some big moves, put his priorities where he thought they should be, got some players he wanted, got rid of a lot of players he didn't, and then made some moves he kind of had to make (e.g. Curry). He knows better than we do that the team still has some holes, but I am comfortable overall with his moves. How many NBA fans sit around griping that their GMs are morons? You never hear that around these parts. Not to mention that Hollinger puts a pretty happy gloss on his last few draft choices.

I have no idea what will happen Thursday, or for the rest of the summer, for that matter. But to resurrect an old mantra from last off-season:

In Pax we trust. I'm still down with that.

Draft pick rodeo -- Yi Hawes!

by preverbal on Jun 26, 2007 10:11 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

here's what i dont get

i don't think anyone is going to argue that Buford is the best gm in the game....but to me, the case dwyer makes for 5th is a joke

"Paxson's perceived faults depend entirely on how you view pro basketball." So his faults are questionbly existant?

"On the surface, Chicago is desperate for a low-post threat. Paxson actually traded away one of the NBA's finest young low-post threats in Curry in October 2005, but Curry wouldn't have played another game for the Bulls because he refused to take a DNA test for a heart problem. His issues with defense, rebounding and turnovers were also wearing thin."

So because a prior regime's lottery pick was a walking advertisement for Atkin's means a weakness of pax? Remember, Pax robbed Isiah...maybe not as bad as could have been...but we still got the best of the deal. If anything, this should be a strength. We traded a ticking time bomb..literally...for #2, #9, 2nd rounders, and pieces

"Paxson also traded away Tyson Chandler after acquiring Ben Wallace last summer. While Chandler had a better per-minute statistical year in '06-07, Wallace's ability to stay on the floor without fouling and help limit Chicago's turnovers was a strong improvement over Chandler's play."

So where's the weakness?

"Paxson also turned down a reported deal in February that would have sent Ben Gordon, Luol Deng, and P.J. Brown to Memphis for Pau Gasol, but trading three starters for one is never a smart move."

ONCE AGAIN WHERE IS THE WEAKNESS?

Meanwhile, Donny nelson is at #2, who traded away a future 2 time (should ahve been 3 time) mvp; and whose team looks like it belongs in the movie awakenings. Then they have the audacity to put colangelo at #4...a clear #2 if pax isnt. Finally, Dumars, who ahve 3 good years is starting to show weakness. His weakness' ramble on; and his mismangament of the salary cap is painful. Finally, while I still like darko, if they had drafted melo, wade, hinrich, bosh, kaman, ford, howard that team would ahve been in the finals at least once mroe, and probably have a ring to show for it.

Pax isn't a top 5 GM...He's a top 3....and accoridng to dwyer, he's like superman on a kryptonite free world....no weakness*

*Couldn't come up with a good anaology...it is 11:16

P.S. Matt, when you want to post this stunning defense of Pax on the front page, please edit my godawful typing :-)

by milesgmsu on Jun 26, 2007 10:16 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I think if they win more the ranking will rise

He's still early in the 'plan'. Whatever mistakes Nelson has made (including dealing the should've-been-zero-time MVP) they've won the Western Conference one year and competed for it for several years now.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Jun 26, 2007 10:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm pretty sure

Nash signed as a free agent and wasn't traded. I think they were already paying Finley max money and Dirk was either up for or had just signed his extension.

And with the 9th pick the Bulls select...

by bullshooter on Jun 26, 2007 10:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

correct, he left as a free agent

They've been a better team without him anyway. Your passion would be better served ripping Danny Ainge or something, Miles :)

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Jun 26, 2007 10:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

why kick a man when hes down

my bad about nash being traded/fa....got a little to carried awya

by milesgmsu on Jun 26, 2007 11:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I understand those were under the minuses...

...but weren't they actually compliments? That's how I read them.

To me, Dwyer was pointing out the "supposed" weaknesses while actually defending all of the moves. Every single one started... "He did this that people don't like, but.... it was because of this."

That's how I took it anyway.I think it was his back-handed way (or whatever the saying is) of praising Paxson. I'm not ready to anoint Paxson the best GM yet. Give him until at least this next trade deadline, and I would even argue the next one, until we say definitively.

I think #5 is about right. Haven't looked at who's ahead of him, but just in general, I'd say #5 seems good.

Yes, of course.

by tyger1147 on Jun 26, 2007 11:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

what no writer

outside of Dwyer (who I enjoy reading immensely simply because he seems to write rather than regurgitate), seems to appreciate is track record.
Outside of Wallace, Paxson's endeavors have taken the better part of the summer. And he's crafted this squad w/ exceptional care, so it only makes sense that he would be very careful in shipping its pieces.
Not to mention, he has EVERY reason to be patient. We are one of the youngest teams in the NBA, we won 49 games AND we play in a conference that fielded three competitive teams one of which is aging rapidly (not to mention, coached by Flip Saunders).
Standing pat and letting other teams panic is the best move. As a matter of fact, if he does it just right, maybe they'll change the colloquial phrase to "standing Pax". ..and "Pulling a Finkle" to "Pulling an Isaiah".

by CookDing on Jun 26, 2007 10:18 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

one issue

w/ Dwyer's column is that he, like others, overrates Colangelo. I still don't understand why nobody puts him to the fire for trading away Luol Deng for trash. And nobody gives Paxson his dues for stealing him.

by CookDing on Jun 26, 2007 10:38 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

in colangelos defense

they didnt need the pick....

by milesgmsu on Jun 26, 2007 11:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sure

But the Suns couldn't afford the pick that year b/c JC gives every guy on the team a huge deal. It's one thing to pay Nash, Amare, & Marion. It's another to give Raja Bell & Marcus Banks huge $$$.

Phx turned the Deng pick into Nate Robinson and $3 million. Ouch.

In Pax we Trust!

by Jobu on Jun 27, 2007 8:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

the owner loved that move

they didn;t need deng....they got him $3M, and was able to parlay robinson into something else....

by milesgmsu on Jun 27, 2007 8:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You can argue dollars all you want

but I don't find that there is a legitimate defense for that move. I understand and appreciate the logic but disagree with it entirely, in hindsight and even at the time.
There is no way that Deng and the 6 million swing would have negatively impacted the Suns.

by CookDing on Jun 27, 2007 6:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Lost in all this draft hype...

One thing we don't seem to be discussing here is any potential free agents that could be obtained using the mid-level exception.

If there is a decent low-post scorer who fits in and that Pax believes he can get (because really, what mid-level exception worthy low-post scorer wouldn't want to come into this situation?), then doesn't that free up the ability to draft the best player on the board? Does anyone know if there are free agents who fit that bill?

No, Sweets doesn't count...

Deng 4 MVP, 2008!

by corey williams corey benjamin on Jun 26, 2007 11:48 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

You tell me...

http://www.blogabull.com/story/2007/6/23/175014/566

I don't watch enough NBA, or have a grasp on the MLE and all that, to really know.

Yes, of course.

by tyger1147 on Jun 26, 2007 11:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Cool

Must've missed that the first time around.

My take on even remotely possible names (meaning that their value is in the mid-level exception range and they play a capable big-man game):

Anderson Varejao
Antonion McDyess (too pricey?)
Chris Webber
Chris Mihm
Michael Doleac
Mikki Moore
Marc Jackson
Alan Henderson
Jamaal Magloire
Travis Outlaw
Fabricio Oberto

None of those names are all that appealing, are they? I'd go after Moore or McDyess first on this list, though they both will likely be seeking more than the exception. Lumberers like Doleac or Oberto could at least add rebounding if not scoring (though Oberto is restricted and I don't see the Spurs letting him go).

Travis Outlaw never got enough minutes last season and Portland certainly doesn't need him now. He's not a scorer, but plays good D and hustles. Maybe he could be good and cheap if there's nothing else out there.

In sum, it's not looking awesome.

Deng 4 MVP, 2008!

by corey williams corey benjamin on Jun 27, 2007 12:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Miki Moore

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 27, 2007 12:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

portland

supposedly loves outlaw...his athletcism alone would make him appealing as an energy guy 6th 7th or 8th off the bench...plus he's still young

by milesgmsu on Jun 27, 2007 8:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Chris Mihm?

Yes, of course.

by tyger1147 on Jun 26, 2007 11:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

ewwwww

not much free agent inside help if you ask me.

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 27, 2007 12:05 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

need4sheed.com

Hopefully Sheed commits a murder-rape, breaks a leg, or gets traded so they can take that stupid site down.

by vlad001 on Jun 27, 2007 12:30 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

what?

by Paxson Jackson on Jun 27, 2007 8:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

detroitbadboys.com

Amir Johnson and Jason Maxiel are their future. That web adress will be high in irony and unintentional comedy for years to come.

by vlad001 on Jun 27, 2007 12:31 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I think GetGarnett.com

died tonight!

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 27, 2007 12:51 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Pax is top two

This summer is crucial in Pax getting the respect he deserves. Loul Deng and Ben Gordon both eligible for extensions. Both are not superstars and will not command max money. You could probably extend them both for $60 over 5 years. Jim Paxson's addition to the bulls front office also shouldn't be overlooked. He freed up lots of cap space in Cleveland. Look at these contracts here as example of a top two GM. Be grateful we got him and not crumbs or worse.

Pau Gasol Kirk Hinrich Kobe Bryant
$13,709,375 07/08 $11,000,000 $19,490,625
$15,080,312 08/09 $10,000,000 $21,262,500 (opt put clause)
$16,451,250 09/10 $9,500,000 $23,034,375
$17,822,187 10/11 $9,000,000 $24,806,250
Free Agent 11/12 $8,000,000

by Blacknight23 on Jun 27, 2007 7:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

nothing wrong with homerism

but Dwyer's list isn't exactly the list, and #5 isn't an insult. Paxson's teams haven't even been to the conference finals yet, so I'm not sure how much "respect" is deserved.

by Paxson Jackson on Jun 27, 2007 8:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

not to start another attempt to get to the right

margin, but that'd be overpaying for one of those two...

And with the 9th pick the Bulls select...

by bullshooter on Jun 27, 2007 8:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

"Uh, apparently not, dipshit"

Matt, that line kills me! You hit the nail on the head.

That excerpt you included is the kind of baseless, speculative, stream-of-consciousness writing that gets bloggers beaten over the head by the MSM. I tend to like Simmons' style, but he should be above that kind of sour grapes drivel.

"Wah. It turned out I was wrong but I still want to sound right. Wah."

Wrecked 'em? Damn near killed 'em!

by mdmnd9294 on Jun 27, 2007 9:04 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Simmons has his fans

I'm not one of them, and I normally ignore the guy. The praise he gets for "still following the NBA" is misplaced.

by Paxson Jackson on Jun 27, 2007 9:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Overpaying for who?

60 mil for the 3rd and 7th picks of their draft. Who have improved statistically and physically each year seems like a bargain they way other GM's toss around their money. Did you see the extensions signed by Wade, Bosh, Kaman, Dunleavy, Nene, etc. from previous draft classes. Just asking??

by Blacknight23 on Jun 27, 2007 9:38 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Dunleavy

is the only guy that's overpaid on your list. Kaman and Nene were paid for being young, big, and promising. That's not quite overpaying.

by Paxson Jackson on Jun 27, 2007 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree but...

This list is not about being overpaid its about what pieces you can afford to put together while extending these guys. Each of their teams has serious salary cap issues facing the teams for non difference makers except wade who will be a free agent way sooner. The bulls by having stars and not superstars keep their window of opportunity open 10 years instead if 2 or 3. Bringing up skiles is an excellent point. Anyone remember the Tim Floyd Train wreck or the Bill Cartwright experiment? Also Minny went to the conference finals in '03 does that mean Mchale's a great exec? GM's should be graded not just on the here and now but the long term stability and viability of a franchise.

by Blacknight23 on Jun 27, 2007 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

huh?

How is it a mistake to pay and keep good players? If the Bulls had been able to draft Wade or Bosh instead of Hinrich I'd like their window of oppurtunity a lot better, and why wouldn't you pay those players for a long time? Most of the better NBA teams are over the cap as it is.

by Paxson Jackson on Jun 27, 2007 11:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He picked Skiles too

One of the most important things a GM does is pick his coach, and Paxson went with Skiles when he was deeply out of favor around the league. That was another "ballsy" play by Pax that turned out well.

So add that to trading the entire roster (including three young lottery picks), making last year's biggest free agent signing, and drafting incredibly well while keeping financial order. Any criticism of Paxson for being tentative is laughable.

by nateroth on Jun 27, 2007 9:56 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

good point

Dwyer does mention coach hirings/firings with the other GMs but not with Pax.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Jun 27, 2007 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hollinger rates Thomas as top of his class

He unveiled a new rating system for the draft today on ESPN (free) and, while I'm not sold on it, his system picks better than the league as a whole over the past few years (of course, when Atlanta and Boston aren't involved, your average improves). You can judge for yourself. According to his rating system, though, Ty Thomas was HEAD AND SHOULDERS above the rest of the draft class in terms of estimated future performance. Check it out.
http://insider.espn.go.com/nba/draft2007/insider/columns/story?columnist=hollinger_john&page=Pro Rater&lpos=spotlight&lid=tab1pos1

by Old Skool Sloan on Jun 27, 2007 10:45 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

we're on it

http://blogabull.com/story/2007/6/26/164824/214

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Jun 27, 2007 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Paxson will be on ESPN radio1000

sometime this after noon(5:00) on Mac Jurko and Harry

http://sports.espn.go.com/stations/espnradio1000/

Sam Smith is a buffoon.

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 27, 2007 12:00 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

yeah I know afternoon.

Though I doubt he'll say anything new but you never know. Im sure he doesn't wana tip his hand. I hope the Hawes 2nd interview was a ploy to make other teams think the Bulls want Hawes. I guess we will find out soon.

Sam Smith is a buffoon.

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 27, 2007 12:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Paxson was on 670 this morning with Mike North

To all who want to listen

Head of the Yi Jianlian fan club

by Option27 on Jun 27, 2007 12:12 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

haha I love how North has balls.

I know your waiting the Kobe thing out. He sure don't beat around the bush.

Sam Smith is a buffoon.

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 27, 2007 1:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

hahaha

''That rat Eddy Curry with that tip in.''

Sam Smith is a buffoon.

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 27, 2007 1:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oh Mike North did a good job of setting up Paxson.

He listed all the negatives about Noah and Paxson defended him. I love the comment about Ben Wallace Northy is clever.

Sam Smith is a buffoon.

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 27, 2007 1:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

defending mike north

noooooooooooo

by milesgmsu on Jun 28, 2007 7:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

In the end I think Paxson takes Hawes

Sam Smith is a buffoon.

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 27, 2007 1:15 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I feel the same way

Head of the Yi Jianlian fan club

by Option27 on Jun 27, 2007 1:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Option

Can I be in the Yi club?

by SRQman on Jun 27, 2007 2:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

For sure!

But if he doesn't come to our beloved Bulls, I might trade rights of the fan club to whomever gets him. ha

Head of the Yi Jianlian fan club

by Option27 on Jun 27, 2007 3:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

lol

we would have to get rights for a future First Round fan club if that happens.

by SRQman on Jun 27, 2007 3:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

It's so funny

Cause if the Bulls do get Yi, Y'all wouldn't hear the end of it.

Head of the Yi Jianlian fan club

by Option27 on Jun 27, 2007 3:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

please let yi slip to 23

by milesgmsu on Jun 28, 2007 7:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Monta Ellis

In Chad Ford's Blog He mentions Monta Ellis and the 18th pick for the 8th pick.

http://insider.espn.go.com/espn/blog/index?entryID=2917967&name=ford_chad

Wouldn't that trade make sense for the Bulls? If we offered up the ninth pick. We pick up a good young player in Ellis and it makes Duhon even more expendable. With the 18th we could take Splitter or Big Baby.

by Wade.Jones on Jun 27, 2007 4:19 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I've had enough Chad Ford

until 2008. Ellis doesn't solve any problems (he's only 6'3"), and his wildly exaggerated and possibly flash in the pannish success last season isn't worth a #9.

by Paxson Jackson on Jun 27, 2007 4:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Agreed

After watching him first-hand (I live in the Bay Area), Monta would be terrible in the Bulls system. He would never be ok being a backup and he doesn't help the Bulls with their backcourt height issues. And if you thought Gordon's defense was bad... wow... Monta makes him look like Gary Payton.

by paxson43 on Jun 27, 2007 4:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

too early for big baby

by milesgmsu on Jun 28, 2007 7:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What

do you guys think of Brandon Wright

by eross226 on Jun 27, 2007 4:50 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Potential is astounding...

but I seriously worry about whether he is committed to improving his game. I'll admit that Hollinger's article from yesterday gave B. Wright a big boost in my eyes. Also,
this FanHouse take makes me feel a little better about having him on the roster next year... I'm easily swayed at this point though (a good thing I'm not actually making the pick).

As things are playing out now, I'd say my draft order for the Bulls is:

Oden
Durant
Horford
Noah
B. Wright
Hawes
Brewer
Yi (sorry Option27)
Green
J. Wright

by paxson43 on Jun 27, 2007 5:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Until he gets picked by another team

Nothing kills my hope :)

Head of the Yi Jianlian fan club

by Option27 on Jun 27, 2007 5:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What if Hawes is gone?

Weren't the same lack of motivation line used on Chris Bosh? Thats who I compare B. Wright to. Bulls would be foolish to let him slip past 9. I like Hawes but not sure he makes it to 9. Maybe Jeff Green is best fit for bulls. Imagine Kirk or Gordon at point, and your choice of Thabo, Deng, Tyrus, Noce, or Green for 2-4 depending on match-ups.

by Blacknight23 on Jun 27, 2007 5:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Lack of height in that group

-- especially with Wallace at center -- would kill them. I really think it's important that the Bulls get some dudes at 6'10" and above this offseason. That's one of the reasons why I think B. Wright is worth a shot.

Jeff Green, despite the things he does well, isn't tall enough and would get buried behind Luol... and I'd rather give Luol all the minutes he can handle so his game continues to develop. JMHO.

by paxson43 on Jun 27, 2007 6:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i think he will slip to us

and be the an all star in the next year

by eross226 on Jun 27, 2007 5:40 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Who? B. Wright?

It'd take him at least two years to be an All-Star (like Bosh) and that's the absolute best case scenario. I think B. Wright is a long way off, but I don't follow college basketball so I'm hoping to be surprised.

by paxson43 on Jun 27, 2007 6:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I meant, it'd take until his third season

by paxson43 on Jun 27, 2007 6:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Why does everyone stress on height?

San Antonio Spurs just won another ship with only one back to the basket player getting minutes (Duncan). The NBA game is constantly evolving I can't comprehend why everyone gets stuck in 80's mode. Just remember 2002 Nickoloz Tskitishvili 7-0 220, Drew Gooden 6-10 230, Chris Wilcox 6-10 218, Jared Jeffries 6-11 220, Melvin Ely 6-10 258, Marcus Haislip 6-10 230, Curtis Borchardt 7-0 238 all taken before Prince, Boozer because of height. Every draft is like this. Height doesn't equal success in the NBA.

by Blacknight23 on Jun 27, 2007 6:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Good teams have height

San Antonio still had four guys in the rotation 6'10" or taller. Eventually you need some over 6'10" because the good teams have them. And they need to be guarded. Even the Bulls championship teams were never short of guys 6'10" and taller.

by Scotter on Jun 27, 2007 6:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Luc was 7'2

With the 9th pick in the 2007 NBA Draft the Chicago Bulls select......Spencer Hawes Washington

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 27, 2007 7:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Three Headed Monster!!!!!!

RAAAAAAAAAAWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Let's finish Zeke off with a diamond in the rough!

by cubbybear on Jun 27, 2007 10:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

they were also taken before

Boozer and Prince because no one expected those two to be any good.

Everyone here stresses height because the tallest player on the roster is Tyrus Thomas, and Tim Duncan is going to keep winning championships.

by Paxson Jackson on Jun 27, 2007 7:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Isn't Luol Deng 6'10"

Good Point I'm only saying IF hawes is gone and WE reach for a Big Man just because is that any better? With Tryrus and Thabo increase in minutes how much will NOAH even play. Is Skiles benching Wallace ? Somethng I missed. The Bulls will trade At least one of these 6'7- 6'9 guys. I mean draft someone purely as an asset even if he has to play one season with 10-15 min off bench.

by Blacknight23 on Jun 27, 2007 7:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Im so sick of Rumors and Height

and bench reps I think I might kill someone.

With the 9th pick in the 2007 NBA Draft the Chicago Bulls select......Spencer Hawes Washington

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 27, 2007 8:54 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Note to everyone else

Reconsider going to the BAB draft party if JoeJoe is in the killing mood.

by paxson43 on Jun 27, 2007 9:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think Im going to sit out on

going to the draft party.

With the 9th pick in the 2007 NBA Draft the Chicago Bulls select......Spencer Hawes Washington

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 27, 2007 9:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

C'mon dude

I'm not going, but you gotta go. For the love of all things funny and Bulls-related, you gotta go. First cocktail is on me.

Draft pick rodeo -- Yi Hawes!

by preverbal on Jun 27, 2007 10:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't know I've been taking big dumps latley.

I don't wana get stuck in the Men's room while the Bulls pick. At home I have a TV right next to the toilet which has Ric Buchers face on the bottom of it. (The toilet not the TV)

With the 9th pick in the 2007 NBA Draft the Chicago Bulls select......Spencer Hawes Washington

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 27, 2007 10:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs