Open Game Thread #37: Bulls at Miami Heat

by bullshooter on Jan 16, 2008 3:28 PM CST Comment 240 comments

[Thanks to Bullshooter for today's game preview. -Matt]

Game previews usually include a bunch of links to stats, recaps of recent games, and commentary about the current state of the team. I don't think anybody who's going to read this needs a refresher about what's going on with the Bulls right now. I also don't think records and stats have much bearing on tonight's game. Dwayne Wade doesn't have to be reminded who swept him and the Heat out of the first round of the playoffs last year. Those playoffs and several heated regular season games are still fresh in his mind. And Shaq has obviously circled this date in advance as the perfect night to make his return from injury.

Given all the recent history, tonight's game will at the very least be interesting. The Bulls should be ready to get smacked in the mouth and how they respond will tell a lot about where this team is and where they are going. Were the first few games under Boylan merely a 'honeymoon', or is this team destined for the lottery? Was the Philly comeback a blip or a sign that this team does have some life and a chance to get back on track?

I'd feel a lot more positive about the outcome if Nocioni and Hinrich weren't game time decisions. But maybe that's for the best. We all know Noc's is never going to backdown from anybody, so maybe this gives us a chance to see what other guys will do. Hopefully, the youngsters, Thabo, Noah, Gray, and maybe even Tyrus will get a chance to show what they are made of. Hopefully, they will get the opportunity and rise to the occasion. Maybe a Shaq elbow to the head will knock some sense into Wallace and get him to play hard for more than 5 minutes at a time. Who knows...

Game on at 7pm EST on ESPN 2.

Blogging with the Enemy:

Crazy from the Heat
Ira Winderman

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Comments

Wade will

probably be happy if Kirk can't play tonight. It will save his arm from being yanked and injured. :-)

I'll record it as the Hawkeyes are on at the same time as the Bulls.

GO BULLS!!!

Win, just win.

by sue369 on Jan 16, 2008 3:36 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Normally, I abhor violence,

but I wouldn't mind seeing that elbow to the head put Wallace down for the count.

by alec on Jan 16, 2008 3:37 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

i second that

also, as he's layign on the ground a Noah accidently stepping on his hand

I vote for Thomas to play, play more and play regularly.-Sam Smith

by tyrus4prez on Jan 16, 2008 3:38 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I third that!

by chgobr on Jan 16, 2008 3:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

But Posey

is with the Celtics now!

by Freethefro on Jan 16, 2008 4:58 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Great Minds Think Alike

I was thinking the same thing the moment I read the original post. Gray and Noah can get some real time and maybe make the games competitive if BW were to go down for the count.

by BiNgO on Jan 16, 2008 4:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Hmmm...

What to wear..the Kryapa or Griffin jersey for this one. Tough call.

by RogersPark Kris on Jan 16, 2008 3:41 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Veeeeeektor for the win

I hear fellow Ukranian Krylo Fesenko is dominating the D-League.

Veeeektor's dunk attempt last night took me back to NBA Live '95. He missed exactly the same way EA Sports programmed the players to miss dunks when they took off from too far a distance from the rim.

by NBA Observer on Jan 16, 2008 3:45 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

damn I missed a Veektor dunk attempt?

that shows me for quitting on games.

I'm so going to have a Veektor google alert in place when he's plying his trade overseas.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Jan 16, 2008 3:52 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Bullshooter, that's the second time

you've mentioned the rally in Philly. Don't you think falling behind 24-7 in the first quarter says more than whatever happened afterwards?

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Jan 16, 2008 3:54 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

No

how you respond to adversity is more important than how you got in the situation to begin with. Everybody has bad days and even bad quarters. Do they give up or do they make an effort to come back? Obviously, you don't want to get in the same situation again like they did in Atlanta. But coming back means they are working together to try and win.

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Jan 16, 2008 4:15 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

if you're a bad team

it happens more often, and against bad opposition. I though thought it was yet another indicator that they're not close to being good.

Maybe this is why you like Duhon as a starter so much: built-in adversity! :)

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Jan 16, 2008 4:19 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

heh

I like rooting for the underdog. Big deficits just get them closer to starting Thabo. Hinrich, Thabo and Deng would be formidable. TT and Noah, too, would be fantastic if they were ready, but let's not get to far ahead of ourselves.

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Jan 16, 2008 4:28 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I want to see 25 minutes for Noah and Tyrus.

Other than that, the game means very little.

Specifically, I want this lineup: Hinrich, Gordon, Deng, Tyrus, Noah. It's easily the most athletic, potent lineup the Bulls have, yet they refuse to play it for long stretches.

There is absolutely no legitimate purpose in playing Smith and Wallace 35+. Paxson must now recognize that clinging desperatly to the hope of the 7th seed is pathetic and destructive.

Maybe Noah will pimp slap Boylan. That would be worth watching.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Jan 16, 2008 4:12 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Do you know what the difference

between the 4th and the 7th seeds is? 1.5 games. Doesn't sound as good when you say "clinging to the hope of the 4th seed does it?" And if the Bulls make a run at the 7th, they might as well just keep going to the 4th seed.

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Jan 16, 2008 4:35 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

They are also

within 4 games of the 4th worst record in the league.

by JeffD on Jan 16, 2008 4:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

also a worthwhile goal

if this team isn't headed in the direction of a championship in the next few years, then by all means, head for the most ping pong balls. But being close to both gives the team options, and I am all for the playoffs versus the ping pong balls.

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Jan 16, 2008 4:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

4th seed, 5th seed, 7th seed...

Honestly, what difference does it make?

The veteran rotation won't win a title barring a miraculous set of circumstances (like a plague striking down the other plyoff contenders).

It just doesn't make any sense to me to mortgage the long-term prospects of the franchise for such a menial short-term gain.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Jan 16, 2008 4:45 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Thabo on Wade

If he can build on last night's game then that will actually be something worth talking about.
More Thabo=better team

by Rusty LaRue on Jan 16, 2008 4:36 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

But

does he know the plays?!

by JeffD on Jan 16, 2008 4:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

He does

but you should hope he plays anyway

by Rusty LaRue on Jan 16, 2008 4:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

any word on Cap't Kirk?

I vote for Thomas to play, play more and play regularly.-Sam Smith

by tyrus4prez on Jan 16, 2008 4:37 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

He's a no go

and Noch is a game time decision.

Win, just win.

by sue369 on Jan 16, 2008 5:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I wonder what the ESPN talking heads

will talk about? I think I'll watch with the sound off.

by KT on Jan 16, 2008 5:00 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I'm just happy

it's not a Bulls telecast.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Jan 16, 2008 5:03 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I do not see this on my ESPN schedule -

I have it only on Comcast

by chgobr on Jan 16, 2008 5:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

It is on ESPN 2 which is not HDTV

by chgobr on Jan 16, 2008 5:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Avert your eyes!

by Freethefro on Jan 16, 2008 5:24 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Is Screamin' Steven A Smith

really an improvement over Red and Stacy?

I just hate people who scream.

by KT on Jan 16, 2008 5:30 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

How someone could not like

Neve Campbell is beyond me.

by alec on Jan 16, 2008 6:19 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

If they don't win tonight

I'm resigned to tanking the season. I can't stand it if we lose to the Heat... ugh.

Also did anyone post this yet?

Rosenbloom calls out Wallace and for Boylan to be fired. Glad to see someone not afraid to say it all. Most comments agree too.

by Jaina on Jan 16, 2008 5:35 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I wonder

What a buyout of Wallace would cost us

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 6:08 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I am hoping tonight

will be better than last night. At least this is an ESPN2 game so it is televised in Iowa

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 6:04 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Dude

All of the games are televised in Iowa. I live in Iowa and watch all of them. You need to clarify that your cable doesn't carry it.

Win, just win.

by sue369 on Jan 16, 2008 6:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

The arena

Looks pretty empty

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 6:11 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

would you rather have

bill walton follow you around and commentate the rest of your life, or take a gary sheffield swing at your knee?

god this may be the worst televised game since ND stanford

way to go on the three lu

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 6:11 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

sefolosssssssssshaaaaaaa

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 6:12 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

jesus shaq dropped the ball and it took so long

i coulda flown down to miami and stolen it in the time wallace didnt do anything

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 6:12 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

ben wallace defenssssssssse

by gobulls1124 on Jan 16, 2008 6:13 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Wallace HAS to stop his knee sock

fashion statement....it looks girly

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 6:14 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Butthen again

his playing is girly too....so I guess they go nicely together

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 6:15 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Smith

Is always consistant

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 6:18 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

8 seconds

it took 8 seconds for the heat pa announcer to announce Shaq's basket

and please when shaq is that low, foul him ben

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 6:19 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

jesus

j-will evidently is exempt from the travel call

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 6:23 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Heh

Noah sitting on the bench twitching...
Looks anxious and frustrated.

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 6:26 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

he cheered on exceptionally hard

when big ben dunked

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 6:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I did not like Hubie's spin

on the Wallace Noah dust-up. But I guess you'd have to expect taht he'd favor the veteran.

by alec on Jan 16, 2008 6:28 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

unbeleiveable; no call

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 6:31 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Wow. Miami is horrendous.

Their lethargy is spectacular.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Jan 16, 2008 6:32 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

The lower stands look at most

half full.

by alec on Jan 16, 2008 6:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Tell me HOW that was a blocking foul

on Wallace...
He was standing there forEVER and Wade ran into him...

geesh.

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 6:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

anyone know what the line on the game was?

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 6:35 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

In retrospect,

Maybe sweeping the Heat in the first round last year wasn't really that big of an accomplishment. My God, Miami is horrible.

by Big D on Jan 16, 2008 6:36 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

laaate call

not to mention bad call

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 6:37 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

bulls can't buy a call

that's the only thing keeping it close. Miami is in bad shape.

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Jan 16, 2008 6:37 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Miami is in bad shape

Hard to believe that there is a worse team than the Bulls...

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 6:38 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Harder still to believe when that

team has D Wade.

But I can't deny what my eyes are witnessing. Miami is putrid.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Jan 16, 2008 6:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Noah!

There's a reason they do well when he plays

by Option27 on Jan 16, 2008 6:38 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I wonder if Thabo will just be relegated to the

bench again when Hinrich returns.

Probably.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Jan 16, 2008 6:38 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Thabo will just be relegated

I hope not.

If he keeps improving at the pace he is, I think him and Kirk starting together might just be a turnaround for the guard issues...

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 6:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I hope you're right.

by alec on Jan 16, 2008 6:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

thabo doesn't play pg...

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Jan 16, 2008 6:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Right, but he only started playing

when Hinrich went out.

I assume they will just return to the Hinrich, Duhon, Gordon rotation.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Jan 16, 2008 6:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Actually, Thabo is playing

a little point right now.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Jan 16, 2008 6:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I think he's the best

passer on the team.

by alec on Jan 16, 2008 6:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

is it possible

katie holmes got even hotter after giving birth?

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 6:39 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

no she married cruise

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Jan 16, 2008 6:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

what's your point?

seriously.

by alec on Jan 16, 2008 6:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Why are we talking about Katie Holmes?

I'd still do her, but she does have the Cruise taint.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Jan 16, 2008 6:45 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

don't know why.

Can't say why not, either.

by alec on Jan 16, 2008 6:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

that was a shooting foul?

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 6:44 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I love

Thabo at point. Hope for the future.

by Rusty LaRue on Jan 16, 2008 6:44 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Nice defense of Noc

by Hubie.

by alec on Jan 16, 2008 6:46 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

i feel bad for Noc

he never gets a call

I vote for Thomas to play, play more and play regularly.-Sam Smith

by tyrus4prez on Jan 16, 2008 6:46 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

boylan needs to get a T

these calls are ridiculous...

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 6:46 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Hubie Brown's name pronunciations

still suck after all these years...

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 6:47 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Hopefully

Wallace we stay planted in the bench

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 6:48 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Tyrus, Thabo, and Noah all at once.

Whoa.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Jan 16, 2008 6:48 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

AND THATS A CHARGE!

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 6:48 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Tyrus, Thabo, Noah, and Aaron Gray

I was just gonna say...

by Seth on Jan 16, 2008 6:49 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

beat me to it

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 6:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Thanks Boylan for making it interesting

Arguably, there is no downside.

by Seth on Jan 16, 2008 6:55 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

tyrus thabo noah and gray wow

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 6:49 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Shaq

did not move Gray an inch

by Rusty LaRue on Jan 16, 2008 6:49 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

F-in refs

Shak drops his shoulder into Gray and GRAY gets called for the foul...

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 6:50 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

F-in Shaq is getting ALL calls his way

Even Hubie pointed out how Gray got CLOBBERED by shaq right there!

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 6:51 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

this game is one of the worst called games

since...well Iowa upset my spartans

forgot to congratulate you Sue

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 6:52 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Thanks :-)

Win, just win.

by sue369 on Jan 16, 2008 8:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Except that

Iowa's defense caused your Spartans to have so many turnovers. The reffing went both ways.

Win, just win.

by sue369 on Jan 16, 2008 8:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

nice pass by free money

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 6:56 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

nice steal by TT

there's hope for him yet :-)

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Jan 16, 2008 6:56 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Yeah

he didn't try to take it all the way to the hole either.

by Rusty LaRue on Jan 16, 2008 7:01 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Gray is having a little difficulty with

Oneal.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Jan 16, 2008 6:57 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

He isn't getting any calls

going in his favor and still taking a beating in the process. It would be nice if getting elbowed got you a foul, but not so in this league.

by cranscape on Jan 16, 2008 7:02 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

F - YOU SHAQ HEAD

F-in cry baby

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 6:58 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Not a good stint for the Big Vanilla.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Jan 16, 2008 7:00 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Yeah...and the part that sucks

is that he's playing shaq pretty well....just getting hosed by the refs.

Pricks.

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 7:01 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Gray

You see Gray's arms? Typically you can see Noc with the red arms but now Gray has them. And maybe a split lip. Perhaps Shaq will get worn out from fouling Gray so much. One can only hope. It is really boring seeing them dish the ball down to Shaq every time down. Yawn. Like being back in the late 90s again.

by cranscape on Jan 16, 2008 7:01 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Anyone notice

That in that last play (when gray fouled Shaq) before the foul he almost put it in for miami. I mean he tried to get a rebound and threw the ball back up at the rim...not good.

im trying hard to become the next kirk hinrich, therefore im doing nothing more than being the next chris duhon.

by piccolomair on Jan 16, 2008 7:03 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

classic BG dribble into the lane

stumble, fall, turn the ball over.

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 7:06 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

BG

BG tried Wade's split and drive to the basket...and lost the ball. I am not a fan of Wade at all, but at least he can keep the ball driving to the basket. It was the same exact move. Pretty sad.

by cranscape on Jan 16, 2008 7:07 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

The difference is if Wade had

lost the ball they would have called a foul on the Bulls.

by philosoball on Jan 16, 2008 7:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah

because he must have been fouled, right? snerk

by cranscape on Jan 16, 2008 8:05 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

is it me

or is BG the answer to the bears prayers at hb? ;-)

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Jan 16, 2008 7:12 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Hey, you're speaking in code

This girl doesn't watch football. :)

by cranscape on Jan 16, 2008 8:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Du getting picked by Wade

then standing there as Wade chased the ball down for the fast break.

by alec on Jan 16, 2008 7:10 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

What a bunch of crap...

...Gray playing much better against Shaq then i'd ever imagine...3 out of 5 posessions he did pretty well, only to get hosed by the refs on 2 of them...the last one was a mess, having the ball bounce off his block hands, right to Shaq...

Why the F is Shaq getting pissed at a rookie? What, he hasn't gotten ALL the calls, only a gross majority?

by PittFan on Jan 16, 2008 7:12 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Looked like a flagrant foul on Noc

from shaq-dick

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 7:15 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Did I mention how much I HATE F-ING SHAQ??

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 7:15 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Tom, Stace, and Red are still the Shiznit

Flipped from CSN to ESPN2 to listen to the difference in broadcast and found myself totally annoyed with the obsessive commentary. At least, the old Chicago crew still has it over the new Caffeine-Methcasts taking over the TV. I like Mike Tirico, but he is always paired with someone who should just STFU for a second to let us watch the game. Hubie.....Jaws... etc....

by BiNgO on Jan 16, 2008 7:17 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

No-CHEE-o-ni @ ESPN

pisses me off

by Seth on Jan 16, 2008 7:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Couldn't agree more

with all the comments. I hate Shaq and Miami is horrendous. They've gotten every call and yet are somehow still losing...

by Jaina on Jan 16, 2008 7:22 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Walton

went after refs for not giving flagrant foul to Shaq.He just slamed Noc.

"YES,WE CAN!"-B.OBAMA.

by Azabullsfan on Jan 16, 2008 7:25 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Oh, to be a Bulls fan

and fear what the third quarter will bring. 10 points? Twelve? Can we break 20? Is it just me, or is seeing Joe Smith smile during an end-of-the-half interview a bad omen?

I am glad to see the Bulls are playing with energy tonight. Ohh, and apparently Bill Walton thinks Shaq's foul on Noc was a flagrant, so much as to call Stu Jackson's attention to it. Glad someone else sees Shaq getting away with beating on other people tonight.

by ForWhomTheBullTolls on Jan 16, 2008 7:28 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Shaq

I hate him.

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 7:32 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Pretty funny

Hubie and his buddy Tirico talking about Shaq, Wade and SMITH from the Bulls....no mention at all of Wallace...

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 7:37 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

They know

He is worthless

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 7:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

and somebody should bitch slap

that dickhead courtside announcer...
diiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiickheaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaadddd

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 7:39 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Sefo!

Shaq sucks.

"YES,WE CAN!"-B.OBAMA.

by Azabullsfan on Jan 16, 2008 7:42 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Thabo

Is on fire

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 7:42 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

yep

and he's making good decisions too.
THAT'S what's impressing me

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 7:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

He has got to play more

I think Duhon's days are numbered

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 7:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Damn

Was that Wallace running?

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 7:43 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I'm liking me some

Sefolosha!

by philosoball on Jan 16, 2008 7:44 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

i am sort of waiting for the other shoe to drop

but give me more Sefolosha.

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Jan 16, 2008 7:45 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Rick Bucher said its not a matter

of if but when the Bulls trade before the deadline, and he implied that Tyrus and Gasol would be involved. Of course, you always have to consider the source.

by philosoball on Jan 16, 2008 7:46 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Someone should ask Bucher

on a skall of credibility of your source, how does it rate with your Kobe trade information?

by KT on Jan 16, 2008 7:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

It ain't gonna happen

but I'd take Gasol for TT...
Him down low with Thabo coming on like this -
Shyte....that could be JUST the ticket...

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 7:51 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Speaking of Bucher,

I don't know what the point of those mid-game interviews is if he's going to ask such boring, idiotic questions.

"I believe. I believe. It's silly, but I believe." (Miracle on 34th Street)

by wjb1492 on Jan 16, 2008 9:53 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Is Thabo the answer?

At this point Thabo should be starting to every game from here on out. He just showed that he can do something no other guard can do on the Bulls and that is take it to the hoop on Shaq and score. He needs more time on the floor.... We may have something here for the future.

by BiNgO on Jan 16, 2008 7:46 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I agree

He has got to be on the floor

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 7:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

what's sefo's career high?

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 7:48 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Thabo!!!!!

by chgobr on Jan 16, 2008 7:48 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

duh has to go harder

uh oh thats a wade "im going to take over" look

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 7:49 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Ricky Davis

is pretty terrible

by RogersPark Kris on Jan 16, 2008 7:50 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Don't call the cops!

It's just me sneaking through the window and coming off the ledge. More Thabo in my life!

by Old Skool Sloan on Jan 16, 2008 7:50 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

duh can't play the steal

you gotta stay in front of wade

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 7:51 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

OHHH!

tyrus is looking more and more like wallace every day ;-)

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 7:52 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

wow

a second half ben wallace sighting.

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Jan 16, 2008 7:52 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Damn

Wallace has a pulse

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 7:52 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Even Corps is showing some life

"YES,WE CAN!"-B.OBAMA.

by Azabullsfan on Jan 16, 2008 7:52 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Don't look now

but the Bulls have INCREASED their lead in the 3rd Q tonight...

WTF?

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 7:53 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Gordon still looks a bit shakey

But is playing better tonight

by RogersPark Kris on Jan 16, 2008 7:53 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

is smush parker still on the heat?

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 7:53 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

yes i just asked about smush parker

notice that as soon as duh is on wade, he goes off

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 7:54 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Don't look now...

But Ben's already got 7 and 6, a full night's work! That fight last night must have sparked something in him.

by Old Skool Sloan on Jan 16, 2008 7:56 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I can live with

seven points but I want double digit rebounds

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 8:03 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Damn, Joe Smith

He's 9/10 from the field and 5/5 from the line! I like it, but leaning on Joe Smith so much makes me queasy.

by Old Skool Sloan on Jan 16, 2008 8:00 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

this is the bulls team that we all know and love

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 8:02 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

it's not over yet.

long way to go in fact.

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Jan 16, 2008 8:03 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Yea

but against very,very bad team.I wish we play them
and Bobcats every week.

"YES,WE CAN!"-B.OBAMA.

by Azabullsfan on Jan 16, 2008 8:06 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Wow

what a 3rd Q THIS was....

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 8:02 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Seems like the only two teams

we own in the regular season are Detroit and Miami.

by philosoball on Jan 16, 2008 8:04 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

'cats and sonics

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 8:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

You're right,

I should have prefaced that statement by saying those are the only good or recently good teams that they still own (in the regular season). WOOHOO!

by philosoball on Jan 16, 2008 8:11 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Bulls....???

Shot...excuse me.... 72% in the 3rd???

Holy shit batman

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 8:06 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Nice effort

By Noah

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 8:08 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

sefo nice steal

playing the point now?

by alec on Jan 16, 2008 8:08 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

nothing like the two teams with balls on fire

(heat and suns) to turn around your fg%

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 8:09 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

jesus

hollinger's machine had a prediction where we finish the season 4-42...ugh

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 8:11 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I'll give Boylan credit

just for taking pressure of Sefolosha.

"YES,WE CAN!"-B.OBAMA.

by Azabullsfan on Jan 16, 2008 8:12 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Thabo

Is all over the place tonight

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 8:13 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

DAGGER!

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 8:13 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

In my country

that was a foul on Shaq. He gets away with so much shit

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 8:16 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

NOah!Dunk of the Wallace miss!

"YES,WE CAN!"-B.OBAMA.

by Azabullsfan on Jan 16, 2008 8:17 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

if nothing else

tonight we established conclusively who the worst team in the east is.a

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Jan 16, 2008 8:17 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I agree

Pat Riley is looking for the exit as we speak

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 8:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

shaq just elbowed Wallace in the face

no call...
Wallace should take a flagrant against him

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 8:17 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Did you see Noah chest bump

wallace after the block of Wade. That was very sweet.

by philosoball on Jan 16, 2008 8:18 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I caught that too

I really hope that they can turn this season around

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 8:19 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

for whatever reason

his stats don't work for the bulls

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Jan 16, 2008 8:53 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Shaq

Gone

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 8:21 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Sit your ass down

Shaq

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 8:21 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Nice passing and effort from Noah

by Old Skool Sloan on Jan 16, 2008 8:22 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

also like how sefo directs

traffic when he's bringing the ball up court

by alec on Jan 16, 2008 8:22 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Hopefully Matt won't call this the

"Sefolosha breakout game" and go on to dismiss it as totally irrelevant since if Thabo is one of our better players we suck anyways.

by philosoball on Jan 16, 2008 8:24 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Um, are you really that lost when it comes to

Matt's perpective on basketball? Sefolosha playing better should put Duhon on the bench. That's alot different than the Big Slow playing ahead of Thomas and Noah.

by Scotter on Jan 16, 2008 8:35 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Hey, SBulls, that was just a little

good natured teasing of Matt. We have to enjoy these victories as much as possible and getting Matt once in a while is always going to be fun.

by philosoball on Jan 16, 2008 8:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

what a great way for shaq to leave

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 8:24 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

nobody else on the team

cuold make that litle backwards flip sefo just threw

by alec on Jan 16, 2008 8:26 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

the difference between our young guys

and miami's is that ours should be in the league

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 8:26 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

We can sleep better tonight!!!

It is a shame Hinrich has to be out to get Thabo good minutes. He should be in the rotation nightly. Can you imagine how good we could be without the Corpse!!

by chgobr on Jan 16, 2008 8:27 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Thabo

Should be in the rotation he was drafted to give us length and defense

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 8:29 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

anyone see Thabo go into the lane

spin around and pass it out behind his head?

Nice.
VERY nice.

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 8:27 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

griff fooled him with his ultra slow mo

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 8:29 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Is that

A Khryapa sighting?

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 8:30 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

VEEEEKTOR!!!

two nights in a row....

But TONIGHT it's because the BULLS are the team doing the blowing out. :-)

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Jan 16, 2008 8:31 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Bulls with 4 guys over 20 points

and Thabo has 17. Haven't seen that too often.

by philosoball on Jan 16, 2008 8:32 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I hope Pax will discuss with Boylan

Thabos' game and rotation plans.

"YES,WE CAN!"-B.OBAMA.

by Azabullsfan on Jan 16, 2008 8:33 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

that was a pretty bad pass by Tyrus

he needs to settle down and get a case of the Thabo's

I vote for Thomas to play, play more and play regularly.-Sam Smith

by tyrus4prez on Jan 16, 2008 8:33 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

why is jizzle out there

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 8:33 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

wow reverse dunk

by krappy

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 8:34 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

a reverse dunk

Veeektor!

I vote for Thomas to play, play more and play regularly.-Sam Smith

by tyrus4prez on Jan 16, 2008 8:34 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Khryapa reverse Dunk!!!Whooo hoooo!

"YES,WE CAN!"-B.OBAMA.

by Azabullsfan on Jan 16, 2008 8:34 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

hahahaha

"when viktor khryapa reverse dunks on you, it's a long night"

by milesgmsu on Jan 16, 2008 8:34 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Bulls win

It's about time

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 8:36 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Skiles really screwed up Thabo!!

That is reason enough to fire him. We were desperate for a long, good defensive guard and he was staring Skiles in the face.

by chgobr on Jan 16, 2008 8:36 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I hate to admit it

But you are right. I like Skiles but I think he was not the coach to do it for this team. Thabo needs to be out there guarding the big two's so Kirk or Ben can handle the ball

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 8:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Thabo handles better than

either of those two guys

by alec on Jan 16, 2008 8:53 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

i wouldn't go that far

because there was almost no pressure on him tonight, but he played well, so I'll give him his due.

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Jan 16, 2008 8:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I think he's handled it better from day one

by alec on Jan 16, 2008 9:01 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

nah nah

you're not going to get me with that one. I think BG should start at point. ;-P

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Jan 16, 2008 9:02 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Well...how about, at a minimum,

he gets to rotate at the point when he's on with either of those guys. I'd be satisfied with that. At least Boylan/Paxson would be able to make an informed decision.

by alec on Jan 16, 2008 9:28 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

The Heat are hideously bad

How do you let the Bulls score 126 points on you? I honestly don't think the Bulls have "solved" anything tonight. They're just playing the worst team in the league.

by Big D on Jan 16, 2008 8:37 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Unfortunately

Chris Duhon will still start once Kirk comes back.

by gobulls1124 on Jan 16, 2008 8:40 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I hope not

THABO!

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 8:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I like your post

by chgobr on Jan 16, 2008 8:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Thank you

I think we drafted these guys for a reason now we need to see what they can do. We know what we have in Griffin, Duhon and Noce let's see Thabo, Thomas and Noah. I have a feeling that Thomas may find himself in a trade and if Gordon signs a matching offer in the fall and chooses to become a free agent we had better know if Thabo can play

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Jan 16, 2008 8:53 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs