I got nothin left.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Jun 27, 2007 10:48 PM CDT in News Comment 125 comments

The draft is less than 24 hours away, and I'm equal parts excited and ambivalent.

The draft itself is fantastic, but I'm realistic in thinking our entire Bulls basketball world won't change much tomorrow. Sure, whoever is picked may someday lead to something earth-shattering (maybe even later this very summer), either in long-term development or allowing a 'big' trade. But I'm thinking for now we'll just see a pretty good prospect wearing a Bulls hat and trying not to stare at Stu Scott's glass eye while simultaneously answering some inane half-question.

I wouldn't assume that same guy will be a Bull for the next 20 minutes, 20 days, or 20 years, but until I have reason to rip his play I'll be happy he's on the team. When we know who the Bulls' guy is, it won't be about Pax picking or not picking 'your guy'. By then he's our guy, damnit!

As far as the right strategy, it's been well documented that I'm up for whatever. Maybe that's why I have the sunny attitude suggested in the previous paragraph. I'm sure there are those who feel a lot stronger about who to draft, but we won't know if you're right or wrong for several years, and by then won't remember or care either way. I'm guessing a lot of us are converts to the church of Tyrus Thomas that wouldn't have dreamed such a thing a year ago.

Having a lottery pick as a playoff team is like playing with house money, specifically from Isiah Thomas' house. I can't find the situation anything but fun.

Consider this the last draft thread before the official draft thread.

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ok, back to rumors

Andy Katz:

Washington freshman center Spencer Hawes is fairly confident that he'll end up with Chicago at No. 9 after working out for the Bulls Tuesday for a second time. Hawes, who also worked out for Minnesota, Philadelphia and Sacramento, said he's a perfect fit for the Bulls since he would be another young piece to help them continue to win. He said that despite all the rumors, he never received a guarantee from Minnesota that he would be selected.

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

Yeah he was interviewed this afternoon

on the ESPN Draft show thingy. Lot's of Chicago talk in the interview. He seems like he can be nasty, he's got this little nasty thing in his eyes like he won't back down. It seemed like he was saying the Bulls would be taking him. Anyways I could see him as a mix of Will Purdue/ Valde Davic/ Bill Lamber/ with a touch of Brad Miller. So........ehhhhh yeahhhh. I won't cry if they pick him. But I think I'd like Noah just cause he's interesting and wacky. I don't know anymore Im all drafted out. I have the same feeling that I did during the two week gap between the Super Bowl.

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

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 27, 2007 11:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

This is depressing

Read that article a few minutes ago. Upon reading that comment my hopefully desire too a huge hit. They guy looks like a late first rounder by all scouting reports and the only thing his fans can point to is his illness. I will be supremely disappointed with a remote hope that Paxson saw something the other billion scouting reports didn't see. As much as I hate to agree with PaxJax if McHale is sold on this guy its a huge red flag.

"If you're not going to compete, then I'll dominate you." MJ

by Rankdog on Jun 28, 2007 11:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

hahaha

good point.

I hope for Noah but I expect Hawes.

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 28, 2007 11:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree.

But I've been wrong before, so maybe Hawes can be a productive component of the team.

I know Paxson, and he is a genuinely intelligent human being, so perhaps he saw some spark of greatness in the workouts or on tape.

by 1958ChiTown on Jun 28, 2007 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think it's just...

...something to get McHale to take him instead of Noah. And it just might work.

Yes, of course.

by tyger1147 on Jun 28, 2007 12:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Not to worry

if McHale likes him, he'll take him at 7. The red flag for me is that it sounds like Hawes had the upper hand in the workouts against Noah. Why would you take the guy who couldn't cut it head to head?

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

by bullshooter on Jun 28, 2007 1:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What McHale...

...mentioned was that Hawes reminded him of himself. He hasn't been the best talent evaluator, but has been hamstrung by the Joe Smith fiasco and the albatross Garnett contract. Definately not trying to make excuses for McHale, but if Hawes is anything like McHale was, we'll be real happy. That said, I hope Noah drops.

by EdNealy on Jun 28, 2007 1:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Nice comment, Matt...

I agree that, at this time before the draft, it is almost useless to think about all the possible scenarios before the Bulls' pick. I just don't care anymore. I like Noah, Hawes, Yi, and Smith if they trade down, and anyone else is fine, too. That would just mean a trade is likely looming. I think my signature says it best.

Have a Happy Draft Day, everyone!

In Pax We Trust! DAAA BULLS!

by RingItUp26 on Jun 27, 2007 11:18 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Going into draft overload...

...but before splattering the walls of my apartment with a tourettical blast of "upside" and "length" and "versatility" and "best player available", I'll just note that Hawes didn't look all that unathletic in the highlight footage, though I was expecting some kind of lumbering unlubricated Tinman.

Bogut isn't a great athlete, neither was Divac, neither was Mr. Bill (Cartwright). In Pax we trust.

by Freethefro on Jun 27, 2007 11:23 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

The whole trade thing was cool at first cause I

didn't expect it to get this crazy. Chad Ford, Bill Simmons, Ric Bucher those guys, I now see why people dump on them. They really are tools. It's true.

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

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 27, 2007 11:46 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Tim Duncan is funny.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=IGY6UamVRSU&feature=dir

This is turning into the two week Super Bowl gap. Draft them already AND only report trades that WILL happen please. WTF

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 28, 2007 12:01 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Joejoe

you are correct. Duncan is also funny in this http://tinyurl.com/33tdj7

by SRQman on Jun 28, 2007 1:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Draft situation puts things in perspective

Great points, Matt. The fact that pretty much no one is spazzing out about the draft is the ultimate sign of confidence in our GM. A lot of people have opinions, but I don't think anyone here believes that they could ultimately make a better decision than Pax will. So whether the Bulls draft a project or trade bait, tomorrow there will be new members to the Bulls family that we should welcome with open hearts and minds. Pax has earned at least that much in his four years of stewardship.

As if we need any more of a reminder, this was the Bulls roster from when Pax took the helm:
T. Chandler
D. Marshall
J. Rose
T. Hassell
J. Williams
E. Curry
L. Baxter
E. Robinson
F. Hoiberg
J. Crawford
D. Bagaric
C. Blount
M. Fizer
R. Mason
R. Brunson

And this young lad was Pax's first draft pick:

Onward, Bulls fans!

by paxson43 on Jun 28, 2007 12:03 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Marcus Fizer ?!?!!

I think I just threw up a little bit in my mouth.

How high did the Bulls draft that guy for Tim Floyd?

I also remember Floyd saying "Mike Miller?" with great disdain when asked about the possibility of drafting him.

Isn't Miller still a starter in the league? Is Fizer even in the league anymore?

Wrecked 'em? Damn near killed 'em!

by mdmnd9294 on Jun 28, 2007 1:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Nope

Not even in the D-League...according to his Wikipedia file:

He is currently playing with Capitanes de Arecibo, in the Puerto Rico professional Basketball league. In June 2007, he signed a two-year contract with Maccabi Elite Tel-Aviv from the Israeli league.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marcus_Fizer

by ScottieCartwright on Jun 28, 2007 2:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well at least he's playing for a top Euroleague

team.

by Scotter on Jun 28, 2007 2:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

"Not even in the D-league"

That's a little misleading. Marcus played for the Austin Toros and tore up the D-League in 05-06.

by Paxson Jackson on Jun 28, 2007 2:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

don't use wikipedia, kids

by Paxson Jackson on Jun 28, 2007 2:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

don't post before you read kids

by ScottieCartwright on Jun 28, 2007 2:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

you know

if you weren't so fast to always try to make an ass outta someone, you would've read that and knew that I meant he wasn't in the D-League NOW you moron.

Of course I knew he WAS in the D-League a little while ago...I meant not NOW...not NOW...not NOW...not NOW...not NOW...not NOW...not NOW

damn I hate you kid

by ScottieCartwright on Jun 28, 2007 2:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

hahaha

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Jun 28, 2007 3:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

his Toros tenure

isn't noted in the wikipedia entry. Yeesh. It's not easy knowing more about ex-Bulls than the brain trust behind wikipedia.

by Paxson Jackson on Jun 28, 2007 3:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wow Kirk looks more

sculpted in that picture. Im not as high on Kirk as I was a few years ago. Durant is going to be a stud.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZndlb18d0s&NR=1

This is turning into the two week Super Bowl gap. Draft them already AND only report trades that WILL happen please. WTF

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 28, 2007 12:09 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

This draft

The only thing that could get me down is that there is such a high chance that so many of the players in the draft end up being good to great nba players. That means that if the bulls select one that turns out to bbbe a bust, I would be a lot more pissed off then if they select a bust any other year.

At least we wont have to see Oden and durant very often since the bulls dont play out in the west coast. Hopefully, Garnett and Kobe also stay in the west coast along with stoudemire (unless they end up getting traded to the bulls in a good deal).

by Sambossanova on Jun 28, 2007 12:24 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Remember ye of little faith

Paxson + Draft Pick = Gold

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

by cubbybear on Jun 28, 2007 3:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

At least we were

in a postion to have a lottery bust even thouh we were in the playoffs.

by eross226 on Jun 28, 2007 12:32 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Thanks Matt

I too am ready to see who the Bulls pick already, so I can start supporting the guy. At the end of the day, I don't care who they pick, I just want whoever they pick to turn out to be the best pick. That's not asking too much is it?

If its Hawes, let him be Divac meets Duncan. If its Noah, let him be Rodman meets Russell. Etc.

Onward. I have a draft party tomorrow, and then I'm backing it up with a Caribbean cruise. Boo-yah-ka-shah!

Draft pick rodeo -- Yi Hawes!

by preverbal on Jun 28, 2007 12:35 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Rodman meets Russel

Whoa. Let's relax a bit. He might be Rodman meets Jason Maxiell.

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

by cubbybear on Jun 28, 2007 3:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Paxson The Genius

As we all wonder and hope, is it this guy or that guy, or what trade, look for Pax to prove he's the best GM with his actions in the second round. If he keeps both picks look for him to pull at least one stud, if not two, you heard it here first!

by A Train Afro 53 on Jun 28, 2007 12:40 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

From the Trib:

http://chicagosports.chicagotribune.com/sports/basketball/bulls/cs-070627bulls,1,3623173.story?coll= cs-home-headlines

The Bulls also own picks Nos. 49 and 51 in the second round. If Oklahoma State guard JamesOn Curry is available, the Bulls will draft him. They brought him to Chicago and liked how he talked about lessons learned from his high school arrest for selling marijuana.

Given how openly Paxson is talking about the need to make a trade down the road, Curry might have a better chance of wearing a Bulls uniform longer than the lottery pick.

by Big D on Jun 28, 2007 12:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

it's funny

the bulls will basically be drafting curry so that he can swap narcotics-in-our-youth story with Skiles. ...it's funny to think how harshly we avoid 'problem' players when Skiles took more snow through his 20's than the Himalaya's.

by CookDing on Jun 28, 2007 9:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

um, allegedly, of course :)

I don't think the Bulls avoid problem players in that sense, just problem players who will fuck up the team on the court and in the locker room.

I'm sure the FreeDarko-ians still weep over missing out on a J.R. Smith era.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Jun 28, 2007 9:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

good points all n/t

by CookDing on Jun 28, 2007 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well what else is there to do

in Indiana but sniff snow.

I hope for Noah but I expect Hawes.

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 28, 2007 9:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

don't know if you've heard

"..there's more than corn (& coke), in Indiana"

by CookDing on Jun 28, 2007 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Of course

You can also go to strip clubs, run people over with cars and shoot firearms in the air in one night (if you're with Stephen Jackson).

by paxson43 on Jun 28, 2007 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

sounds like zbo as well

but hes still a spartan so hes my boy

by milesgmsu on Jul 1, 2007 11:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

yo everyone

If you like action flicks go see Live Free or Die Hard. It is a bona fide bad ass movie. Ugh I have to wake up at 8 est and it is 2:30 est now. The joy of working at a summer camp.

by SRQman on Jun 28, 2007 1:30 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Noah...

Read this TrueHoop interview summary to see Henry be the latest to get a man-crush on Joakim. Noah will probably be a future pick on the all-interview team...I can see why Sam Smith or any Bulls beat reporter would be rooting for this guy. He also DOES seem to be a Paxson-Skiles type.

I suppose it'd be nice to have a player on the team who's charming, personable, and can give interesting interviews, but I'd take a reliable hook shot instead.

by T Maple on Jun 28, 2007 8:52 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I was

completely with Matt in the ambivalent, "we don't know for sure who's going to be good, we should support whoever" mode, until it appeared that Brandan Wright may actually be available at the 9.

If he is, I would be crushed if we didn't get him. He's going to make a lot of GMs look bad for passing on him. Mark my words.

by Bayern Munich on Jun 28, 2007 9:35 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

It seems almost certain...

...that there will be at least one perennial All-Star that falls outside of the top 6-8 picks. It pretty much has to happen. And it seems (although it's probably only half the time) that it's somehow a guy who started out really high on boards, but started to fall right before the draft based on "intangible" stuff. I just hope that guy falls to the Bulls.

Yes, of course.

by tyger1147 on Jun 28, 2007 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Who are some examples?

Draft pick rodeo -- Yi Hawes!

by preverbal on Jun 28, 2007 10:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

some

Pierce, Amare, Kobe, Jefferson, Cherokee Parks (oops)

by CookDing on Jun 28, 2007 11:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Going back to 2003...

Since these guys tend to be "late bloomers" and you would need time to see "perennial". Okay, going through it... fewer perennial All-Stars, but a couple of defensive players of the year and some players I definitely wouldn't mind getting.

2003 - I think Josh Howard and Leo Barbosa have a good chance. (late first-rounders)

2002 - Amare Stoudamire (9 overall). Carlos Boozer (2nd rnd).

2001 - Joe Johnson (10). Tony Parker (28). Gilbert Arenas (2nd).

2000 - No All-Stars that I recognized, but... Michael Redd (2nd rnd).

1999 - No All-Stars, but... Shawn Marion (9). Jason Terry (10). Ron Artest (16)

1998 - Dirk Nowitski (9).

1997 - Tracy McGrady (9). Jermaine O'Neal.

1996 - Kobe Bryant (13). Steve Nash (15).

1995 - Michael Finley (21). Andrew Declercq.

1994 - Eddie Jones (10).

And this doesn't include guys like Paul Pierce, Zach Randolph, who haven't been All-Stars, but I'd be more than happy with.

Sorry my list sucks. I'm at work, and my sources are crappy. But I do feel confident that there will be one player picked at 9 or later that, in four to seven years, will be one of the "best" players in the NBA.

Yes, of course.

by tyger1147 on Jun 28, 2007 11:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oh...

And I did see that some i mentioned as "no all stars", actually were some. And same with Pierce. Stupid Wikipedia. Oh well. There are plenty.

Most of us think "All Star" is overrated anyway (I know I brought it up), but there's still a lot up there.

Yes, of course.

by tyger1147 on Jun 28, 2007 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

just saying it doesnt make it true

by milesgmsu on Jul 1, 2007 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

more rumor dump

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/sports/2003765657_soni28.html

A month ago, Chicago was reportedly pursuing Sonics forward Nick Collison and was willing to trade the No. 9 pick. The deal lost momentum several weeks ago, but there's a chance talks will resume today.

Emphasis mine. I hope that the pick wasn't just for Collison.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Jun 28, 2007 9:41 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

#9?

What? Rashard Lewis couldn't have been involved in the talks, so that's strange to me. Future 1st pick(s)? That's a head scratcher...

by kingj41 on Jun 28, 2007 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

there had to be more

how could the Oklahoma Sonics not make that trade? And since when is Collison such a huge assett?
I'm all for getting him but is really any better than Duhon or, at most, Noce? He's a bench player for them, right?

by CookDing on Jun 28, 2007 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oklahoma Sonics

Hmmm....New Name suggestions?

Oklahoma Tornadoes? What else is there in Oklahoma?

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

by cubbybear on Jun 28, 2007 3:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hey, don't be picking on Oklahoma!

There's a lot of great stuff here.

Just let me think for a while, and I know I can come up with something...

"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 28, 2007 4:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I have a

cousin who lives in Norman.

Right now I would trust Pax with my life. :-)

by sue369 on Jun 28, 2007 6:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

oklahoma wheat?

by milesgmsu on Jul 1, 2007 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

yet more rumor dump

San Fransisco Chronicle (via GSoM):

Yi, a consensus lottery pick, could go as high as No. 3 and isn't expected to get past the Bulls at No. 9.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Jun 28, 2007 11:01 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I read that

with Mullin rumored to want Yi, and McHale rumored to want Hawes, I want the Bulls to have nothing to do with either of them.

by Paxson Jackson on Jun 28, 2007 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm no Hawes fan

but am still uncertain about Yi, either way. The guy can definitely shoot and moves very well given his size. I'm not sure where he fits on the Bulls and he has as many, if not more, questionmarks than intriguing qualities. However, b/w Hawes, Yi and "Big Guard as Best Player Available", I would prefer Yi.

by CookDing on Jun 28, 2007 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

what are your thoughts

paxJ, aside from the obligatory "Yi and his age" jokes? Clearly, we can know very little about him but what draftable options are more compelling (other than Noah)? And, for the sake of argument, let's leave the option of trading, now or in the future, off of the table (it's too big a can of worms).

by CookDing on Jun 28, 2007 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I really don't have any

That's why Mullin's opinion of Yi (which might just be the GSoM opinion of Yi, but there are trade rumors) frightens me. At least I have a poor track record in the lottery to go by. It beats youtube highlights.

by Paxson Jackson on Jun 28, 2007 11:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Expected

Makes me think it's someone's guess. My guess is that Paxson will take a player that he only saw in cognito. Can someone Photoshop a mustache, trench coat and Derby hat on Pax? Haha that'd be great.

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

by cubbybear on Jun 28, 2007 3:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

"in cognito" or

Intacto? The linked clip works well as a metaphor for the draft too.

by Paxson Jackson on Jun 28, 2007 3:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

More rumors

It has been said that if the Bulls select Yi, Option27 would break the all time record of longest dance.

Head of the Yi Jianlian fan club

by Option27 on Jun 28, 2007 11:18 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

You can join the Greg and Conley

Evidently, those guys like dancing to Stomp the Yard:

And I really only had one little tiny bit of insight that wasn't really common knowledge. I had heard that Greg Oden and Mike Conley, Jr. were really into the movie Stomp the Yard. So I trotted out that fact and prayed for some kind of connection.

BIG SMILE.

Conley was thrilled to be talking about this: "We watched that movie a lot. You should see us back in the dorm room. We had all the moves perfected. We must have watched that movie five or six times."

Not too long later, Greg Oden strayed in. He was due to do a phone interview across the room, but I barked out that I heard he was ready to "Stomp the Yard," and sure enough he did. Well, he did something. It looked pretty smooth and agile for a big guy, although it wasn't a move I could really describe -- other than to say he wasn't chicken about it. He did that move.

by paxson43 on Jun 28, 2007 11:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

also...

from Chad Ford's newest mock

"The Bulls are looking big. Noah and Yi are their first two choices. In fact, Noah has been telling teams like the Bucks not to draft him, in what I think is an attempt to get to Chicago."

Interesting tack to take by Noah's camp if that is true. I love how the draft turns into a giant 30 man chess match...

by micah on Jun 28, 2007 11:30 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Noah is my guy.

I hope for Noah but I expect Hawes.

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 28, 2007 11:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

"I hope for Noah but I expect Hawes."

I Like this one better:

"I hope for Noah, but I fear Hawes."

by Jesse07 on Jun 28, 2007 12:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

1st deal of the day!

according to Chad Ford

Chad Ford: (12:38 PM ET ) Orlando traded the 54th pick to Houston for cash considerations! The crowd goes wild!

by ScottieCartwright on Jun 28, 2007 11:41 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

more "insight" from good ol' Chad

Sean (Burbank, CA): Hey Chad, am I the only one who thinks Zach Randolph to the bulls for the #9 pick (and players to match money) is a good idea?

Chad Ford: (12:44 PM ET ) No ...unfortunatley, the Bulls don't. I do think he's the answer to all of their problems. But I also think that Scott Skiles would kill him.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Farhan (Rio Rancho, NM): What are the chances the Bulls don't pick a big? Do they really like Noah, he seems awfully redundant with Wallace and Thomas, but seems to be getting high praise from Paxson.

Chad Ford: (12:45 PM ET ) Noah fits their draft strategy. Winning program, active kid, plays defense. But you're right, you can't play him and Wallace or even Tyrus Thomas together ... not yet anyway. Sounds like if Noah's not there, Spencer Hawes is the guy.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brodie (Davenport, IA): Why are the Bulls being mentioned in the Kobe trade talks but not the KG rumors?

Chad Ford: (12:48 PM ET ) Good question. Not sure why. I think they should make a deal for Kobe. Will cost a lot, but in the East, I think they'd have a few guarnateed title runs.

by ScottieCartwright on Jun 28, 2007 11:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Skiles

"But I also think that Scott Skiles would kill him."

He needs a fear-inducing nickname, like Killer or Brutus.

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

by cubbybear on Jun 28, 2007 3:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i dont get this

the owners of the magic are billionaires...why sell it?

why ever sell a pick

by milesgmsu on Jul 1, 2007 11:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Question I can't put in my own Diary

because I don't know how:

Folks, why aren't we involved in the Atlanta-Minnesota-Phoenix trade? It appears that the Hawks were about to get Stoudemire, but backed out for financial considerations. They were sending (according to Chad Ford - somebody please tell me how to link!) the 3, 11, and junk. We can match that without blowing up our nucleus - I'm thinking Tyrus, Thabo and the 9 - and we've got ownership that's not afraid to shell out the cash, unlike Atlanta.

At the very least I'm hoping Pax is trying to jump in on this!

by Freethefro on Jun 28, 2007 11:54 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Probably

because they want picks and quickly expiring contracts. The Bulls don't have the contracts to make a deal work. Duhon, Tyrus, Thabo, #9 next year #1?

by kingj41 on Jun 28, 2007 11:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yah

I think the expiring contracts may be what they're really after; shame we can't offer much in that regard. I would think, however, that Tyrus + Thabo + #9 > 3 + 11. Additionally, Thabo's size and ball-handling could mesh potentially very well with Randy Foye.

by Freethefro on Jun 28, 2007 12:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i can tell you why

because it is impossible to accomplish a trade w/ the hawks within a week of the draft.
the last major trade they accomplished (and i'm not referring to al harrington who basically set that trade up himself) involved a lawsuit and the intervention of the league's commissioner.

by CookDing on Jun 28, 2007 2:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Given

how anxious Minnesota is on dumping Garnett, I am sure Pax will get a call from McHale.

by LD9 on Jun 28, 2007 2:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hmmmmmmm

I wonder, if they can get Noah at 9 and then when the Kobe Trade resurfaces which I think it will and would you Include Wallace in a Kobe trade and keep Noah around? I mean I was really disapointed then Wallace durning the Piston series. Well maybe not but I might just think about trying to come up with a package like Wallace, Hinrich, Duhon, PJ Brown for Kobe. Giving you.....

Gordon
Kobe
Deng
Tyrus
Noah
Sefolosha
Viktor

hmmmmmm well I might still be drunk from last night.

I hope for Noah but I expect Hawes.

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 28, 2007 12:09 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

forget I wrote that

I hope for Noah but I expect Hawes.

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 28, 2007 12:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah there's no way Kobe's going to the Bulls

by bu11s on Jun 28, 2007 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Please don't let it be Hawes

He's 7-1 . . . if he were that good, he'd be a top 5 pick.

by Big D on Jun 28, 2007 12:14 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Um, don't

understand the relevance between height and draft position. Based on that, Manute Bol would have gone #1. It's safe to say that all three big guys around #9 will be projects (Wright, Jialian, Hawes, Noah). Don't forget that Hawes was a top 5 high school prospect who rejected the Dukes and NCs of the world to stay home. And the guy's only 19. I'd say he's got good upside.

by EdNealy on Jun 28, 2007 2:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

height and draft position

Mike Olawakandi
Kwame Brown
Eddy Curry
Tyson Chandler
Robert Swift
Saer Sene
Pat O'Bryant (isn't he the guy from "The Insider"?)

All overvalued.

by CookDing on Jun 28, 2007 2:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

And what else do they all have in common?

None of them had a jumpshot when they were drafted, and they still don't. So Hawes isn't likely to join that list. Centers who can make a jumpshot stick in the league and help teams. And tall players are als overvalued because tall players win championships. Outside of the six Bulls Championships. Every NBA champion has had at the very least an All-Star caliber center. Most have had a HOF caliber center. It's why GMs still say they'd take Hakeem over Jordan. And it's why GMs will always take Oden before Durant.

by Scotter on Jun 28, 2007 2:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Most years

Hawes is a top-5 Pick. Durant and Oden move everyone down, and Horford, Conley are normally just one guy at the top of that caliber.

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

by cubbybear on Jun 28, 2007 3:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Why all the fear?

Hawes is just a lower pick, IMO, because he didn't test well at the camp and had some injury issues this past season. GMs thought that he should have had better rebounding numbers but he was playing with Jon Brockman. They thought he should have carried his team more.

Another reason I think is that Hawes is not a franchise type player that you MUST take at the top, as least not now. However, he's good enough to be in the top 10, and there are teams that just have bigger needs or they already have young post players like Milwaukee and Charlotte.

In Pax We Trust! DAAA BULLS!

by RingItUp26 on Jun 28, 2007 1:00 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Hey Matt -

is there any way we can get a "who would you draft" multiple-choice poll before the draft? I'm curious what the Blogabull concensus/lack thereof is, but my stone-age computer skill preclude me from posting it myself.

by Freethefro on Jun 28, 2007 1:04 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

My draft order

Noah, Green, Yi, Brewer, Smith, Hawes

by Jesse07 on Jun 28, 2007 1:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

create a new diary

and at the bottom there's a listing for the poll question/answers.

I've never done it myself, mind you.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Jun 28, 2007 1:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

wilco

by Freethefro on Jun 28, 2007 1:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Who gets picked

does have some meaning for the future of the Bulls. If it is Julian Wright or Jeff Green then a trade needs to be made this summer or Noc just has to be let go. If it's Noah a trade is likely because of a glut of no jumpshot big men, but not necessary this summer. If it's Hawes then a major trade is unlikely because Hawes is a player with more value to the Bulls given their current roster than to other teams. Much like Thabo. His skills mesh with the current roster and wouldn't fit every team. If it's Yi. I have no idea what that means, other than Paxson saw what he liked. Yi should continue to carry trade value, but I imagine that if Pax liked Yi enough to draft him then he's going to keep him.

by Scotter on Jun 28, 2007 1:14 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Question: How many minutes

are between each draft pick in lottery, 1st round, and 2nd round?

by Jesse07 on Jun 28, 2007 1:47 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I thought it was something like

five minutes for the 1st and two minutes for the 2nd.

by Scotter on Jun 28, 2007 1:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What's really wierd is

I'm actually warming up to the idea of taking Noah. I hated it at first cause of all the talk about drafting a big who can score. But then I started thinking. Skiles would probably just sit you if you had no defensive game and didn't grab some boards. I'm thinking Hawes wouldn't be able to flourish under Skiles, kinda like Curry.

Go with someone that can give you minutes. The thing that sucks and doesn't at the same time is that Noah and Tyrus will probably be in foul trouble a lot but at least they could both come in for one another and the Bulls would never lose that energy

Head of the Yi Jianlian fan club

by Option27 on Jun 28, 2007 1:50 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I've softened on my anti-Noah

stance some. I still think he's over rated, giant spaz, and not the sharpest knife in the drawer. And I doubt I'd ever be aba le to be a fan of him. But, I don't think he's going to be a bust either and could learn to tolerate him eventually.

by Scotter on Jun 28, 2007 1:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm coming around as well...

Considering anyone at #9 will be somewhat of a project, we could do worse than a very athletic 7'0 footer with a 37 inch vertical. The personality would be very annoying, yes, but I see a good starter taking the place of Wallace in a few years.

by EdNealy on Jun 28, 2007 2:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I haven't seen enough of him

Spaz, like Nocioni is a spaz? That's going to be annoying.

by Paxson Jackson on Jun 28, 2007 2:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Also

on the flip side of not scoring, imagine Deng, Tyrus, Wallace and Noah? The Bulls should never be outrebounded.

Head of the Yi Jianlian fan club

by Option27 on Jun 28, 2007 2:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

lol

Imagine the rebounding records they could set some night that Kirk, Lu and Ben are all off.

"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 28, 2007 4:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The worst kind of spaz

Noah is this kind of spaz. Brace yourself. But hey, he's a winner.

by paxson43 on Jun 28, 2007 2:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Huh?

Just as it's ridiculous to want Noah because he's a winner and brings energy, it's just as ridiculous to suggest those are the only reasons to like him. After all, the (basically) anti-intangible John Hollinger likes him.

He runs the court well, passes well, is a very good defender, is 7' tall, is more projectable...

Yes, of course.

by tyger1147 on Jun 28, 2007 2:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wow

I had been feeling that Noah's the best choice for the Bulls until I was reminded of that dancing video. Now I'm neutral again. Thanks!

Deng 4 MVP, 2008!

by corey williams corey benjamin on Jun 28, 2007 3:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

We get

that it's Joakim Noah he said it like 3 times.

by bu11s on Jun 28, 2007 3:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What else could he say without getting censored?

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

by cubbybear on Jun 28, 2007 3:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

IF anyone cares

Ric "talkin Kobe" Bucher just said the first 4 were goin to be

Oden
Durant
Horford
Conley

Head of the Yi Jianlian fan club

by Option27 on Jun 28, 2007 2:16 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

He also said

that Kobe won't wear a Laker uniform anymore. He's no GM. I put no weight in what he says even if he's right about that order.

by kingj41 on Jun 28, 2007 2:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That why I think you'll see Paxson offer a deal to

the Lakers after July 1st in which he can't get Kobe for a bargin price. Paxson and Kobe have the leverage. The Lakers really don't have anything now that the Garnett deal fell through. So I could see them trying to steal Kobe away.

I hope for Noah but I expect Hawes.

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 28, 2007 2:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

thats

I hope for Noah but I expect Hawes.

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 28, 2007 2:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ric Butcher LOL!!

Funniest thing all day that a guy who gets his all his rumors from the back of the cereal box would be considered an NBA insider. i can't remember one thing he said that came true whether draft, trades or free agents.

My Draft Board if Brendan Wright doesn't fall

Hawes Can Play with Ty and Ben or sub for them
Yi Jianlian See Above
Jeff Green Best player available (could replace Noce)
Javaris Crittenton Allows you to think about trading Hinrich or Gordon if not this year soon
Joakim Noah I'm a fan of his but he doesnt fit well with our other bigs

I'm a bulls fan though and will be happy with whoever they select. In Pax I trust.

by Blacknight23 on Jun 28, 2007 2:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pax hasn't said anything

about getting Crittenton.

by bu11s on Jun 28, 2007 3:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i also said that

about a week ago

by milesgmsu on Jul 1, 2007 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

wow The Kobe Video and Audio is up

I guess the decided to release it. That was kinda cool.

http://www.thekobevideo.com/

I hope for Noah but I expect Hawes.

by joejoeEnglish94bulls4ever on Jun 28, 2007 2:54 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

nice study on win shares

draftexpress has a nice analysis on win shares amongst the projected lottery players (well, them and nick fazekas).
Apparently, it worked with some level of accuracy as last year it predicted JJ Redick and Morrison would be busts. Of course, a pair of eyes and a meager helping of common sense could have predicted that.

http://www.draftexpress.com/viewarticle.php?a=2146

one important note? it appears that Spencer Hawes is being panned again. it's only a hunch, but I'm getting the feeling that he might be Brady Quinn tonight at about 10 PM EST ("Maceij Lampe! Maceij Lampe!)

by CookDing on Jun 28, 2007 2:55 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

heh

ah man I remember the Lampe thing...best part was a single fist raised after he was picked by the knicks to acknowledge the cheers.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Jun 28, 2007 3:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm glad somebody

got that, I thought it might slip through the cracks.
The worst part was the Knick Nation being saved from itself when Lampe wasn't selected in the first.
Of course, no draft would be the same if it wasn't for a bunch of belligerent, overzealous nba clientele waiting to take Stern and their own franchise's management to task at a moment's notice.
...just one more reason to look forward to tonight.

by CookDing on Jun 28, 2007 3:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm super sad right now

ESPN just reported Yi is not falling after pick 6.

My hopes and dreams are all but crumbled.

Head of the Yi Jianlian fan club

by Option27 on Jun 28, 2007 3:06 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Thank you

by bu11s on Jun 28, 2007 3:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pax could be trading up.

He was some international flair, maybe.

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

by cubbybear on Jun 28, 2007 3:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pax

has already stated it's doubtfull he tries to move up cause of what he'll have to give up to move up.

Yi and us would have been great together

by Option27 on Jun 28, 2007 4:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Maybe the Bucks are bluffing

Or maybe David Stern will call them and "strongly suggest" that they not pick Yi, and avoid setting off an international incident.

by Big D on Jun 28, 2007 4:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

YI is probably trade bait

for Devin Harris.

Which I don't quite understand.

by KT on Jun 28, 2007 4:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I hate

how international players are saying where they will and won't play. Same for Noah w/ the Bucks if that was true. And I know the Bucks are a small market, but they do have pieces which make them dangerous. They just need some defenders.

by kingj41 on Jun 28, 2007 4:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

It's ok

maybe the Bulls won't draft him, but that's not to say he can't be traded for or signed when he becomes a free agent. THINK POSITIVE DAMN IT! ;-)

The Future is bright!

by Goostafer on Jun 28, 2007 4:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

deja vu

this draft is just like the the 03 draft. We are just a couple of picks away from drafting a great player. I am referring to drafting Kirk a couple of picks after Wade was drafted. My guy is Noah and I doubt he will be on the board at nine. i hope we trade up.

by Zac23 on Jun 28, 2007 5:35 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs