Gasol post-mortem (a.k.a. Open Game Thread #46: Bulls at Sacramento Kings)

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Feb 2, 2008 6:10 PM CST in News Comment 296 comments

This resigned feeling I get over the Gasol non-acquisition is settling in like it did in the days after the Scola non-acquisition: the Bulls just didn't have what the other team wanted, or at least not at the right time.

Sam fills us in:

Bulls were prepared to offer their lottery pick and young players and the expiring contract of P.J. Brown last year to Memphis. But the Grizzlies declined to deal Gasol then. When they got ready last month, the Bulls no longer had enough in expiring contracts. They could have tried to do a sign-and-trade deal with Brown, which is permitted since he last played for them, but it would have put the team well into the luxury tax and, in effect, cost $25 million to $30 million this season to have Gasol with money paid to Brown, the tax penalty and revenues not received from teams over the tax.

And Mike McGraw:

The Bulls thought they had a deal for Gasol a few weeks ago involving Nocioni and some other pieces, but it fell through when Memphis wanted the Bulls to take on an additional bad contract.

The Bulls might have been able to match the offer by using retired forward P.J. Brown as part of a trade, along with expiring contracts like Chris Duhon and Viktor Khryapa.

Simply put, the Bulls aren't in position to take on Gasol because they already have an inflated payroll. Next season, they are committed to paying Ben Wallace $14.5 million, Kirk Hinrich $10 million and Nocioni around $7.5 million. Assuming they re-sign restricted free agents Deng and Ben Gordon to deals starting at $10 million, that makes $52 million committed to five players.

Add Gasol's $15.1 million salary, and the Bulls would be moving well beyond the current luxury-tax threshold of $67.9 million, unless they were able to unload some payroll somehow.

So, on the one hand you can see what Paxson's up against, and this non-deal can be explained away like it has been in not getting Bryant, or Scola, or anyone.

But it's also pretty damning that he can assemble a team this terrible, and simultaneously have a cap situation so inflexible.

But that's what happens when you talk about a luxury tax edict, yet sign Nocioni to a 5 year contract, and Joe Smith to a 2 year contract.

Or when you're reluctant to trade away young frontcourt talent like Thomas and Noah, yet can't find a way to get them on the court.

So right now we have a team that's supposedly gunning for the playoffs, yet can't get an upgrade.

And sure, tough to rag on Pax for a non-move, as we don't know the information. But we do know this team he has sucks, and has had 2 coaches now say they've quit. So as much as staying the course may be the best move, it's also tough seeing what he's so committed to.

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Well, the hope

is that he's committed to bring in a new coach next year who will commit to playing our young 'uns. Trading some vets in the offseason might help that as well.

by BenGo07 on Feb 2, 2008 6:18 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

so, 2 seasons down the drain

this year. And next year playing the youngins.

blech.

I wouldn't be surprised if Pax resigns before then anyway. He just doesn't seem to enjoy or be actively involved in GM-ing.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Feb 2, 2008 6:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Playin the Youngins

Playin' the Youngins doesn't necessarily translate to a losing season. The Bulls won with quite a few young guys over the last couple years. Portland's winning with youngins. Atlanta, etc.

What you do have to do to win with youngins is be willing to give them playing time, like Portland or Atlanta did when they were bad in the last couple years, so that they can learn the game. Otherwise they'll always be rookies.

A lineup of Noah, Deng, Thomas, Hinrich, and Gordon might still be able to be effective next year, although it'd be nice to change one or two of those parts perhaps. But that lineup isn't going to be effective next year if Noah and Thomas play 10 minutes a game this year.

by balta1701 on Feb 2, 2008 6:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

yup, and like you says

the development year should be THIS season.

I can't believe we have to look to Portland and Atlanta as examples. They were using the Bulls as examples. ugh.

But I'm still setting the bar higher than 'non-losing' season next year. Eastern Conference finals this year. And next. Or Pax is out. I don't see the need in giving him a grace period to undo his own mistakes.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Feb 2, 2008 7:51 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Except it's not that easy...

...to make the Conference Finals. Name the teams that have done it over the past 5 years, and it's easy to see how this Bulls team comes up short.

I don't fault Pax too much for this season because it was impossible to predict that November. I'm glad he's not making a move just because of that horrible start. I will end up faulting him in another month, though, when Tyrus still isn't getting 15 mpg.

I guess I can just be patient for another year or two because a) Garnett's still damn good and b) the Bulls have three very young, very high-potential guys and c) the Bulls have been winning the past 3 seasons. Sorry, the future doesn't lie with the core of Hinrich, Gordon, Deng and Nocioni but with Deng, Thomas and Noah.

Let us prepare for glory! --Michael Redd

by tyger1147 on Feb 2, 2008 9:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

On the mistakes thing...

...I would. Although, I think you giving him until the end of next season is giving him a chance to undo mistakes. There are a lot of things that need to be done this off-season which includes futures decisions on Duhon, Gordon and Deng. If he can get rid of Wallace and/or Smith before the trade deadline, I'll be optimistic going into the off-season.

Let us prepare for glory! --Michael Redd

by tyger1147 on Feb 2, 2008 9:47 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Kiki

I think management should fire Paxson and bring in Kiki. Now is the time to do it, while the Bulls still have some free agents.

And I'm not buying this story that the Bulls didn't have what the grizzlies want. Kryhapa, Duhon and Brown could easy have made up for Kwame's salary. You can easily replace Critteron with Selfolosha. We have a pick this year, better than what the lakers will have.

All that leaves is a 2010 lottery pick? Well, we have one of those too! Wow, that took 5 minutes. And the Grizz got better picks and a better prospect from the Bulls. Don't be fooled

Paxson chose not to make this deal. It takes two to negotiate, who knows if the Grizz didn't propose something similar. The Bulls aren't committed to winning. And they haven't been in 10 years. Ridiculous.

by danger mouse on Feb 2, 2008 6:49 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

sure, Pax could have gotten Gasol

but at what price? I'd rather see if TT and Noah can develop and gel.

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Feb 2, 2008 7:13 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

dangermouse didn't say either of those

Khryapa/Duhon/Thabo/PJ and 2 first-rounders.

Works for me.

But there's that pesky luxury tax, and once again that MEGA Nocioni contract has screwed us again :)

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Feb 2, 2008 7:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

A part of McGraw's article

you don't quote mentions that the Lakes were willing to 75 mil into the tax while the Bulls weren't willing to go 68.

To me that says the Lakers are comitted to winning...and the Bulls aren't.

by alec on Feb 2, 2008 8:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

OK Mariotti :-)

the Lakers are going for a title, and the Bulls are so far away that paying the tax now makes little sense.

Perhaps I'm just hoping this is true instead of believing it, but if this was a 'missing piece' type move, the Bulls would go over the tax.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Feb 2, 2008 8:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

If we don't get a smart coach ...

We'll never play our rookies. Ever. We're rebuilding with a veteran movement right now. It's not working.
Basically, though, we're doomed to not have a shot until BW comes off the books, and I don't see how this changes that.
This is one of the few games I can watch. I hope they win, and TT gets a double-double. :P

by Prevenge on Feb 2, 2008 7:17 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Hope I

can stay awake for the whole game tonight. :-)

Never went to church camp but I did go to Girl Scout camp. If you ever need help making a campfire I'm your girl. :P

by sue369 on Feb 2, 2008 7:17 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Hopefully

there is enough space to sign du to a six year extension this offseason, gritty lil bastard

by Beef Wennington on Feb 2, 2008 7:24 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

If they don't have room,

they need to MAKE room! At the end of the bench.

by Freethefro on Feb 2, 2008 7:30 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Iur next coach

should be Billy Donovan. He can develope the youngsters and knows how to use Noah effectively. Just throwing a name out there rite now.

by eross226 on Feb 2, 2008 7:30 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

or coach K

he's a chicago guy!

(I'm kidding. No college coaches)

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Feb 2, 2008 7:38 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Bobby Knight

vs. the body

by Beef Wennington on Feb 2, 2008 7:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Donovan

can't take an NBA job for five years, as part of his agreement with the Magic to let him out of his contract.

by BenGo07 on Feb 2, 2008 7:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

No pass for Pax

Gimme a break. He's been talking to the Griz for a freaking year. He ought to have had an idea what they, and any other team that's trading away a top flight player wanted.

1. Saying they didn't have the right piece at the right time is a lame excuse.

First, the Bulls had all kinds of options to maintain flexibility this summer. The bottom line was Pax looked at his guys and thought he didn't need to do much. If he did, then why on earth would have have signed up Smith and Noc and passed on moves like dealing PJ Brown expiring deal at last year's deadline for Kurt Thomas who expires this year (although, unlike PJ, he appears actually capable of still playing).

Second, don't tell me a deal couldn't have been worked to turn up an expiring contract. Joe Smith has some value to a team looking to upgrade. Noc theoretically does, at least. If the Bulls were looking to make it happen, I don't think they were looking hard enough or in the right places.

by Sports2 on Feb 2, 2008 7:43 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I agree

although your idea of pawning Smith on Miami seems far-fetched. But a week ago I shat on the idea of pawning Noc off for expirings from the Nets, and that wouldn't have been such a bad idea.

If Smith and/or Noc isn't traded by the deadline, we really need to tell Pax's family to quit using up the family plan minutes.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Feb 2, 2008 7:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Heh

Maybe it was, but it's one I thought of in about 30 seconds.

At the verge of reaching a true state of Armchair GM self-parody though, I think given the couple weeks Pax appears to have had, I could have found a deal :)

I'm pretty sure any set of expiring deals we could get for Smith, plus Duhon or Khyrapa, would get us where we need to be salary-wise. Not to mention if we ended up throwing in an player like Thabo or Thomas

Joe Smith for Jamaal Magloire?
Shannon Brown and Ira Newble?
Eduardo Najera?
Some combination of guys from Golden State (Barnes, Pietrus, O'Bryant)?
Kirk Snyder and Steve Francis?
Smith and change might have gotten us Kwame for that matter.
Pat Garrity and one of that useless combination of useless guards Orlando has (Reddick, Dooling?)
Back to the Sixers (who didn't want him to leave) for Kevin Ollie and Shavlik Randolph or Giricek?
San Antonio might be willing to move Brent Barry for a guy like Smith
Seattle's lease on Kurt Thomas is almost up. Maybe they'd want to get a year of Smith's "veteran leadership"
Brian Colangelo likes guys who can shoot. Would he be interested in turning Rasho into Smith?

I dunno. I just see Smith as being a guy on a reasonable contract with a reasonable set of skills. I think that's somewhat true of Noc too. For a team that wants to rebuild but has a star or too (like Miami or New Jersey), he might be attractive as well.

by Sports2 on Feb 2, 2008 9:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

This is a big test for our 'coach'

Smith's ready to go and It's unclear whether he'll start or not. A couple days ago it was reported that Noah would likely keep the job.

Plus, he's noncommittal on Thabo holding HIS job when Duh gets back to half-speed.

Someone ask coach corpse what to do.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Feb 2, 2008 7:44 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

if we ever trot out

Duh and Smith in the starting lineup again, that's it. I'm a Bucks fan.

by Freethefro on Feb 2, 2008 8:03 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I just don't

understand how Du should get any shot at starting over Thabo. What more does Thabo have to prove?

Never went to church camp but I did go to Girl Scout camp. If you ever need help making a campfire I'm your girl. :P

by sue369 on Feb 2, 2008 8:14 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

He must

have some dirt on Pax. Du should not be allowed on the bench during games

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 9:19 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Duhon and Smith

need to be reserves Thabo and Noah need to develop

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 9:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Ugh

WGN

by gobulls1124 on Feb 2, 2008 9:02 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

So far the Kings feed leaves something to be

desired, too. Pick your poison, I guess.

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Feb 2, 2008 9:09 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I'm glad that

Thabo and Noah are starting

TMD- http://playahatersblog.blogspot.com

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 9:16 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

The Only Reason To Watch is 3 for 3.....Noah

by BiNgO on Feb 2, 2008 9:28 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

He is playing well

I am glad he is getting the playing time. We need to see what we have with him

Tom

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 9:29 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Hey! The game's on Antenna TV!

Brad Miller looks hilarious driving to the hoop, I have to say. He's so slow. Soooo sloooow.

by Prevenge on Feb 2, 2008 9:30 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Has anyone noticed

whether Red seems to coming down much harder on Walace's lack of offense lately?

by alec on Feb 2, 2008 9:31 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Kevin Martin

is killing us

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 9:32 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

viktor in for noc

we were calling for a little of that

by alec on Feb 2, 2008 9:38 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

drive cut off ,

found BG for a basket, rather than force up a snot a la noc

by alec on Feb 2, 2008 9:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

When was the last time the guys shot 75%

in a quarter?

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Feb 2, 2008 9:40 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

We already have

half the points as we did last game.

by eross226 on Feb 2, 2008 9:41 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Joe Smooth

This will mean less minutes for our boy

by Option27 on Feb 2, 2008 9:46 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Du nice pass to Tyrus

by alec on Feb 2, 2008 9:49 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

viktor another nice pass

by alec on Feb 2, 2008 9:53 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Not cool Gordon

Take care of the freak'n ball during a fast break. You should be reward Tyrus for his sprinting, not doing your twinkle toes turnover routine. Guh.

by cranscape on Feb 2, 2008 9:54 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

TT may be headed

to the bench with two quick fouls

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 9:54 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

viktor another nice pass

ho-hum

by alec on Feb 2, 2008 9:55 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

That second personal foul on TT

was dogshit.

Good stretch for Tyrus, though.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 9:56 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

If this team could just get rid of Wallace.

Nothing else would need to be done for the rest of the year.

Let us prepare for glory! --Michael Redd

by tyger1147 on Feb 2, 2008 9:57 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Boy, do I wanto to see Tyrus

and Noah on the court at the same time.

That being said, I am very encouraged by the playing time for Noah and TT, albeit in different lineups.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 9:57 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

What the hell was Kirk aiming for?

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 9:59 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Gamecast says Thabo only 2 minutes,

is he hurt?

by Freethefro on Feb 2, 2008 9:59 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

He isn't playing well.

KMart is schooling him.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 10:02 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

that's disappointing.

by Freethefro on Feb 2, 2008 10:05 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

So what?

I can't wait for next year when Duhon will be GONE.

by marionette on Feb 2, 2008 10:08 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

In case you guys didn't know ..

They call him K-Mart.

Thanks Wayne.

by gobulls1124 on Feb 2, 2008 10:03 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Too many &^%&^! turnovers.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 10:05 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Kirk with lob attempt

to Wallace??? Maybe last year.....

by marionette on Feb 2, 2008 10:06 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Come on Bulls, finish a quarter

well for once.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 10:07 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Free throws and TOs

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Feb 2, 2008 10:08 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Artest is a very tough

assignment for Noah.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 10:09 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Guh.

Duhon and Wallace on the floor at the same time is killing us. And I am not sure if having Noc in there at the same time as those to does us any good either.

by cranscape on Feb 2, 2008 10:13 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Tyrus should be on Artest in the

second half.

He did a nice time shutting him down.

Artest was feasting on Noah and Noc.

We can and should win this game.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 10:14 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Artest is a reaaly tough

match-up for anyone.

by alec on Feb 2, 2008 10:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Mike Brown

an older Mike Sweetney?

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Feb 2, 2008 10:18 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I have mixed feelings.

"What are you going to teach them?"

"They have to be consistent and work hard. They need to learn how to be pros. Doing well in practice doesn't mean you get more minutes in the game. (why the hell not?!?!) They probably never sat this much." (Tyrus friggin' redshirted)

Okay, well his specific player comments weren't so bad except the first one.

"What do you teach Aaron Gray?"

"You can't teach size. (um, yeah) Learn how to be more aggressive on defense w/o picking up fouls."

Noah

He's agressive. Teach him how to be a better offensive rebounder even though he's good at it already. Teach him moves since he's going to be quicker than most centers he plays.

Tyrus

Um, he was really good as a rookie so he's not getting as much playing time this year, obviously. So I need to teach him how to not be mad about that because it's really fucking stupid. Just pray for a sprained ankle and he finally might get into the starting lineup like he should be. (seriously, he said exactly that)

Let us prepare for glory! --Michael Redd

by tyger1147 on Feb 2, 2008 10:29 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I feel all better now

Brown is coaching the "young big guys"...

Ohhhhh BOYYYYY!!

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 2, 2008 10:18 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

He said he's coaching them

on how to feel better about not getting playing time.

True, That's what he said.

by alec on Feb 2, 2008 10:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

heh

good catch. That's exactly what it sounded like.

Hopefully he meant "until the trade deadline"

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Feb 3, 2008 11:21 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Didn't they just have, like, 70 some points

in Minnesota? Almost up to that at the half.

by marionette on Feb 2, 2008 10:20 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Try 67 pts. in Minn....

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 2, 2008 10:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I musta been

blocking it out.

by marionette on Feb 2, 2008 10:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Pretty good

first half. Hope they continue to hit shots in the second half. Nice to see everyone contribute.

Never went to church camp but I did go to Girl Scout camp. If you ever need help making a campfire I'm your girl. :P

by sue369 on Feb 2, 2008 10:23 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Let's hope

it continues and we see everyone continue to contribute

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 10:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Linguistic double dribble?

by Freethefro on Feb 2, 2008 10:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Sorry

it's been a long week

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 10:29 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

LoL

I was congradulating you!

by Freethefro on Feb 2, 2008 10:30 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Thanks

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 10:30 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Don't everybody freak out

but the Bulls currently sit alone in ninth place in the east.

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Feb 2, 2008 10:28 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I am not sure

if the eigth seed in the playoffs help us

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 10:30 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Bleh

2 shots blocked by Brad Miller? Immobile, gravity bound Miller?

by Freethefro on Feb 2, 2008 10:32 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

woot!

Veektor! Has Boylan finally had it with Noc's reckless/feckless gunning?

by Freethefro on Feb 2, 2008 10:33 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Victor

Is making things happen

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 10:33 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Khryapa has a long and quick hands

Nice steal

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

by Azabullsfan on Feb 2, 2008 10:34 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Ha!

Artest SCHOOOOLED Noc chuckin' up one of his arch shots...

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 2, 2008 10:34 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Noc gets the quick hook

for Khryapa. And you guys think Boylan can't coach...

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Feb 2, 2008 10:34 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

team plays better with viktor

rather than noc

by alec on Feb 2, 2008 10:34 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Noc gets the quick hook

for Khryapa. And you guys think Boylan can't coach... ;-)

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Feb 2, 2008 10:35 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

The doghouse door

maybe opening for Noc

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 10:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

And Wallace for a T

...

by cranscape on Feb 2, 2008 10:35 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Pretty much

giving them a four point play. Good one. Bench please?

by cranscape on Feb 2, 2008 10:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

At least

he has a pulse tonight

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 10:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I'd rather

if he is on the floor he'd be making points for us and not for them though.

by cranscape on Feb 2, 2008 10:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

That's true

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 10:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

This is an important half of basketball, in my

opinion.

The schedule this month is brutal. If they don't win tonight and tomorrow night, there is an appreciable chance we could go 4-9 in February.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 10:35 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

viktor's even playing

respectable d on artest

by alec on Feb 2, 2008 10:38 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

what do you mean by respectable?

Artest is running him all over the floor and my man Viktor is having a tough time keeping up.

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Feb 2, 2008 10:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

the

truest thing you've said in days...

by ScottieCartwright on Feb 2, 2008 10:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Boylan:

"Viktor played nicely against [Ron] Artest defensively," Boylan said. "I liked the way he looked out there. I felt we needed to do something to change the flow of the game. The way Viktor has been playing, I wanted to try him."

http://chicagosports.chicagotribune.com/sports/basketball/bulls/cs-080203-chicago-bulls-nocioni,1,69 19415.story

um, I didn't think so. The guy can board a bit, but my 'Veektor is a better 4' theory falls apart when he actually has to guard power guys, like Artest.

I'm not sure Thabo would've done much better. The answer, as always, is more Tyrus.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Feb 4, 2008 3:30 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

and

he is getting into their passing lanes a bit and creating steals. Can't say I want to see Noc in for him again any time soon.

by cranscape on Feb 2, 2008 10:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Why a tech on BG?

by Freethefro on Feb 2, 2008 10:41 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

He "handed" the ball

to the guy who two-handed pushed him off the court. In the replay Gordon used one hand to give the other guy the ball. Didn't look very bad. Obviously Gordon did it to make a point, but I doubt the guy has a bruised kidney from it. Seemed a little extreme by the refs, especially since a two handed push is uh, pushing it in the first place.

by cranscape on Feb 2, 2008 10:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

The other guy was K-Mart

and all I that went through my mind was K-Mart razzing Ben about banking $55M last summer

by Sports2 on Feb 2, 2008 10:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

And now Gordon with a T

could at least one of these T's give us a spark? Please?

by cranscape on Feb 2, 2008 10:41 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

he's slowed down

artest's scoring a bit by harassing him--at least it looks that way to me.

by alec on Feb 2, 2008 10:42 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

missed ya up there bullshooter

by alec on Feb 2, 2008 10:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

It's funny

these two teams are back to about full strength and both of them are looking pretty feisty tonight. Like those videos of homeless guys that get paid in sandwiches to fight each other.

by Sports2 on Feb 2, 2008 10:43 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

that's really sick

by Freethefro on Feb 2, 2008 10:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I never got when

a player misses a free throw and the other players give hi fives and congratulate him lol.

by eross226 on Feb 2, 2008 10:46 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Martin never got his feet down

TOTAL BS call by the refs there...

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 2, 2008 10:50 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

that looked like

(from my vantage point here on the couch) like a blocking foul.

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Feb 2, 2008 10:50 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Victor did not commit

Any sort of foul right there

by Option27 on Feb 2, 2008 10:50 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

No kidding!

How in the world could anyone beat someone to a spot in that situation. There has been some idiotic calls tonight. He got called for a weird screen earlier and I don't think he was even setting a screen there.

by cranscape on Feb 2, 2008 10:52 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

And now

they don't give him the charge on the other end. They are calling him like he is a rookie.

by cranscape on Feb 2, 2008 10:53 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Terrible charge call

on Vicktor!

by marionette on Feb 2, 2008 10:51 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Tonight I have learned,

courtesy of the Kings broadcasters, that Ben Wallace always plays with energy and effort, and that Brad Miller is a shot-blocking machine. One of them actually made that "Don't bring that weak action" type of comment.

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Feb 2, 2008 10:51 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I thought

Miller was not the best defensive player

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 10:56 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I think they're a bit delusional

I mean, we all know that BW sometimes plays without energy and effort, right?

And Brad Miller certainly did not make a name for himself on the defensive end.

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Feb 2, 2008 11:00 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I agree

BW definately has an on off switch. I was going to say I don't remember Miller playing much D at Purdue

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 11:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

He did get two blocks on Noah.

One Noah didn't have an angle, the other he got body slammed in mid air by Miller, no call.

But this blog has too much complaining re: the refs on it. And I'm as guilty as anyone.

by marionette on Feb 2, 2008 11:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

It sure would be nice

if they'd call it both ways...

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Feb 2, 2008 10:53 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Gordon dribling for 18 seconds

not pretty

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

by Azabullsfan on Feb 2, 2008 10:54 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Uhhh

do we have NOBODY else that can play besides Viktor? 3 fouls in a row and isn't doing anything on offense...

by ScottieCartwright on Feb 2, 2008 10:54 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

would

you rather have Noc out there? Really? Because he was benched for good reason. Viktor's fouls have mostly been the ref's idiocy.

Oh look, they just missed Tyrus get hit on the neck/face and gave us a no-call and then a T on Tyrus. See any kind of patter here?

by cranscape on Feb 2, 2008 10:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I would really have NEITHER

but if I have to choose, I would rather have Noc out there...at least Noc can hit some shots

Viktor isn't doing anything on offense and Artest is going by him at will...yeah he got a couple of bad calls, but so has the whole team

by ScottieCartwright on Feb 2, 2008 11:01 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Gordon's "isolation" plays

kind of suck. Three of our guys are wide open and Gordon is doing his own thing.

by cranscape on Feb 2, 2008 10:55 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Gordon is doing his own thing

Nothin' new there...

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 2, 2008 10:58 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

How thefuck does Hawes not get called

for that hack?

Total shit.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 10:56 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

F......G Oficials

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

by Azabullsfan on Feb 2, 2008 10:57 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Not a good day for the youngbloods

(or so it seems from gamecast)

by Freethefro on Feb 2, 2008 10:57 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Boylan right there

should step in a nd protect Tyrus.

by alec on Feb 2, 2008 10:57 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

How the F--- is that a travel on TT?!!

He got smacked in the neck, for cryin' out loud!

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 2, 2008 10:57 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

That was a bullshit non-call on Tyrus

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 10:57 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I'm not one to complain about calls

by Tyrus got hosed on that one.

by Sports2 on Feb 2, 2008 10:58 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

This might be fiiiiiiiiixed??????????

How can they miss that foul BY A ROOKIE on Ty's drive?

by marionette on Feb 2, 2008 10:58 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

This sucks.

I am staying up late to watch this game and we are actually playing with a little life and the refs are being idiotic and wrecking the game.

by cranscape on Feb 2, 2008 11:01 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Lets hope Bulls play good in fourth

Huge Hope.

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

by Azabullsfan on Feb 2, 2008 11:01 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Anmd we satrted 0=4:-(

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

by Azabullsfan on Feb 2, 2008 11:03 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

We can win this.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 11:02 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

And then reality sets in

Can and will are two different things

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 2, 2008 11:03 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

nope

looked like it for a bit, though :(

by Freethefro on Feb 2, 2008 11:06 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

happy to be wrong....

by Freethefro on Feb 2, 2008 11:15 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

F-ING Duhon!

WTF is he doing in there??

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 2, 2008 11:02 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

damn

why does it seem like Red hates ANYTHING that Tyrus does offensively?

by ScottieCartwright on Feb 2, 2008 11:03 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I think he's really

criticising the bulls more than thomas. Thomas shouldn't be the first scoring option 15 fett from the basket

by alec on Feb 2, 2008 11:06 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

i agree

but he even bitched when TT took a little 5-ft jump hook

by ScottieCartwright on Feb 2, 2008 11:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

He was bitching

about him being the go to guy. Don't worry Noc is back it will be ok

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 11:06 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Tyrus

isn't really helping us offensively right now. He isn't going for his high percentage shots. You gotta wonder why he isn't being set up and/or getting himself where he needs to be.

(I am not saying that anyone else is doing smart things out there right now either, but Tyrus gets yanked sooner than others so it would it is in his best interest not to be throwing up shots like that)

by cranscape on Feb 2, 2008 11:08 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

You're right

I think Tyrus needs to get into the games more and get his positioning down

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 11:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

And

we don't seem to have anyone trying to work him into the offense either. Last season Tyrus was in the offense. They need to run some plays for him. Smith looked for him once, but it was an awkward play and Tyrus wasn't looking for the pass. Not surprising since they don't pass it to him like they used to.

by cranscape on Feb 2, 2008 11:13 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

In that play

he was positioning himself for the rebound. Usually Smith takes that shot

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 11:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

the hell?

get friggin Khryapa out of the game

by ScottieCartwright on Feb 2, 2008 11:05 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I am going to kill Red.

Fucking old ass redneck.

If it was Gray taking those shots, he'd be fine with it.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 11:05 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

except gray wouldn't be taking

18 foot jump shots. all red is saying is that tyrus should be getting the ball nearer the basket

by alec on Feb 2, 2008 11:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

lol

exactly...i'm surprised he hasn't pined to get him in the game yet

by ScottieCartwright on Feb 2, 2008 11:08 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Lighten up

Tyrus isn't a saint after all. He wasn't taking good shots AND the rest of the team shouldn't be putting him in that position in the first place.

by cranscape on Feb 2, 2008 11:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

You might not like to hear it

but Red was right about TT not being the guy who should be taking those shots. BG should be taking those shots.

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Feb 2, 2008 11:07 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

No. He wasn't.

Maybe he had half a point when Tyrus caught down low.

But the other shot was a bail out jumper along the baseline with time running out. Tyrus got the ball late in the clock and had to shoot it.

That's when Red made his ill-time and senilic comment about Tyrus.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 11:08 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

he was saying

that the bulls should be running the ball through somebody like BG and TT shouldn't have to be in that position, not that TT shouldn't take the shot.

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Feb 2, 2008 11:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I agree with that.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 11:12 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

i agree that

TT shouldn't be taking long jumpers...but Red even whined when he took a little jump hook in the lane

by ScottieCartwright on Feb 2, 2008 11:09 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

We need more Noah

by BoxingHideout on Feb 2, 2008 11:07 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Seems Like They Crap When Noah On Bench

by BiNgO on Feb 2, 2008 11:08 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

HA! BG with a blatant hook

but the call goes against Mikki.

by marionette on Feb 2, 2008 11:08 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Moore gone

I hate that ass hole.

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 2, 2008 11:10 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Gordon did a good job on

Moor

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

by Azabullsfan on Feb 2, 2008 11:10 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

i'm SOOOO glad

they didn't sign Mikki Moore

by ScottieCartwright on Feb 2, 2008 11:10 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Good lord, this game is the Bulls for the taking.

Come on.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 11:11 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

True

We need this one

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 11:13 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Rookie mistake

All Noah woulda had to do was take a half step forward and take the charge...

Ugh.

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 2, 2008 11:12 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I was wondering if Boylan would bring BW back

If we did get a call on that one it's about time.

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Feb 2, 2008 11:13 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Does anyone want to imagine tonight...

if Gordan hadn't played?

by BoxingHideout on Feb 2, 2008 11:14 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I mean gordon

by BoxingHideout on Feb 2, 2008 11:14 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

And that's why BG should touch the ball

every time down.

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Feb 2, 2008 11:14 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I have to give Noah credit.

Great defense on Artest the last two trips.

Far better D than his initial stint.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 11:14 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Noah Back On Floor And What Happens?

by BiNgO on Feb 2, 2008 11:14 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

BG looking good.

This is more like the mix of youth and Core that everyone had hoped for.

But we need to finish this game and actually win.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 11:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

BG looking good

I'LL tell ya who looks GOOD...
Them California-style cheer leaders...

Hokey Schmokie!

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 2, 2008 11:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

When Ben plays like this

I want to keep him however I believe he thinks he is worth more than the Bulls are willing to pay

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 11:15 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

To say keep BW

is a almost a felony.Ok misdeaminor.

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

by Azabullsfan on Feb 2, 2008 11:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I mean

Gordon

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 11:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

OH Sorry

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

by Azabullsfan on Feb 2, 2008 11:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

he does just as much

as Kevin Martin in my eyes

by ScottieCartwright on Feb 2, 2008 11:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

bad call

on noc

by ScottieCartwright on Feb 2, 2008 11:18 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Looks like Bibby is playing for Bulls

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

by Azabullsfan on Feb 2, 2008 11:18 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I spoke too soon

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

by Azabullsfan on Feb 2, 2008 11:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Noc

"I got the ball. I got the ball!"

by cranscape on Feb 2, 2008 11:18 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

GORDON!!!

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

by Azabullsfan on Feb 2, 2008 11:19 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

BG giveth...and BG taketh away.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 11:19 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

kirk playing great d on kmart

notice how quiet kmart has been

by alec on Feb 2, 2008 11:20 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

BG up to his same old stuff

Makes a clutch 3 pt shot, only to blow a layup the next time down and then foul on the other end for an and-one...

argh

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 2, 2008 11:21 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Kmart just embarrassed BG.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 11:22 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

kmart gets bg on the switch

uh-oh

by alec on Feb 2, 2008 11:22 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

And Noah needs to throw that down.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 11:23 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I think

the entire bench is chewing at their fingers. Did the team ban gum or something?

by cranscape on Feb 2, 2008 11:23 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Come on, guys.

This is going to be a long week of late nights if they keep playing like this.

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Feb 2, 2008 11:23 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Take Noc out

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

by Azabullsfan on Feb 2, 2008 11:25 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

keep him in

if Viktor is the alternative

by ScottieCartwright on Feb 2, 2008 11:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

He just missed open shot

And comited a foul.Where is Viktor?

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

by Azabullsfan on Feb 2, 2008 11:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Why not move Noah over

and put in Thabo?

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 2, 2008 11:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

because it makes too much sense

by ScottieCartwright on Feb 2, 2008 11:29 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

LOL

Word.

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 2, 2008 11:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I agree

Thabo on Artest makes sense

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 11:32 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Makes more sense

than NOC on Artest...dontcha think?

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 2, 2008 11:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

And don't forget

the point is just to get Noc out...
Put whoever you WANT on Artest...

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 2, 2008 11:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

WTG Noc...

nice TO

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 2, 2008 11:25 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

God damn it Noc.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 11:25 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Nocioni is awful!!!

how many turnovers? goddamn he's regressed!

by Freethefro on Feb 2, 2008 11:25 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

ugh

by alec on Feb 2, 2008 11:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

kirk again great d on kmart

by alec on Feb 2, 2008 11:26 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

My husband

commented on Kirk's good defense tonight too.

Never went to church camp but I did go to Girl Scout camp. If you ever need help making a campfire I'm your girl. :P

by sue369 on Feb 3, 2008 12:04 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Why leave Noc in playing like this?

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 2, 2008 11:27 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Fucking Hinrich and his breakaway

transition jumpers.

And what a stupid fucking foul by Noce!

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 11:27 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

come on!

3-4 straight possessions without BG touching the ball...stupid shot on the break by Kirk...stupid foul by noc

by ScottieCartwright on Feb 2, 2008 11:27 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Why did Nocioni foul him there?

There's a minute and a half to go!

by Big D on Feb 2, 2008 11:27 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Playing With Emotion and/or Head In Arse

by BiNgO on Feb 2, 2008 11:28 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Well, it was a gritty foul.

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Feb 2, 2008 11:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

thabo should be at small fwd

by alec on Feb 2, 2008 11:28 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Brick,Brick,Foul

How do you like us now?

by Beef Wennington on Feb 2, 2008 11:28 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Brad Miller

DEMOLISHED Ben Wallace. Never thought I'd say it, but wow. And this was one of Wallace's good games?

by Freethefro on Feb 2, 2008 11:29 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Here we go again

The Bulls didn't score the last 2+ minutes of the game the other night.
And right now, they haven't scored in the last minute and a half...

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 2, 2008 11:29 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Red Kerr

This has got to be the worst announcing job I have ever heard from Red. All he is doing is bitching and moaning. No insight, not even a coherent statement. Just "oh no" and "come on" and various grunts and noises associated with the continuing disappointing play of the Bulls. I know this guy is like an institution in Bulls broadcasting, but he seriously needs to be taken out of the booth. He's just an emotional wreck out there now.

Why don't you crack an egg of knowledge all over me, buddy.

by MarketMaker on Feb 2, 2008 11:29 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

West Coast games are tough for Red

He's probably usually in bed by now.

by Big D on Feb 2, 2008 11:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

he's turning into ron santo

by alec on Feb 2, 2008 11:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

lol @ emotional wreck

at least we haven't heard any candy wrappers tonight

by ScottieCartwright on Feb 2, 2008 11:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

There were at least 3 candies heard

by marionette on Feb 2, 2008 11:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

ah ok

i must've missed those parts...i watched the first half on DV-R, so I fast-forwarded a lot

by ScottieCartwright on Feb 2, 2008 11:45 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

then it

sounds like he is about as fed up as any of us here, he just happens to have to be there in person to see the Bulls suck this season. Gotta wear a guy down. What are you supposed to talk about? I doubt they'd want him to articulate how bad we've been playing. They don't even let reporters call the players out for what is going on.

by cranscape on Feb 2, 2008 11:35 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I saw him after the atlanta game

and he looked like somebody had shot his dog.

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Feb 2, 2008 11:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

lol

Watching Bulls games as punishment. They need to start pushing a feed of the game into prisons. They'd be lining up for more humane punishment like hard labor by the end of the road trip.

by cranscape on Feb 2, 2008 11:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

It'd be nice

if they could get BG a look on this possession. It'd also be terrific if he could hit it.

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Feb 2, 2008 11:29 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Now Noah with a moronic foul.

And BG has to hit that wide open jumper from the free throw line.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 11:30 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Game Too Fast For Penguins To Keep Up.

Another Piss Poor Officiated Game.

by BiNgO on Feb 2, 2008 11:31 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

yeah but

the zebras didn't make the team go cold and have stupid shots and turnovers in the last 2 minutes

by ScottieCartwright on Feb 2, 2008 11:32 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

True..... I've Come To Expect Both Bulls And NBA

by BiNgO on Feb 2, 2008 11:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Come on. One more stop.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 11:33 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

damn!

Artest schooled Noah!

by ScottieCartwright on Feb 2, 2008 11:34 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

That was nasty

by TMD on Feb 2, 2008 11:35 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

BG with another brick from the free throw line.

And Hinrich follows with his own.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 11:36 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Kings announcer

just said bulls have been Ar-tested.

by Beef Wennington on Feb 2, 2008 11:36 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

We can't score...when we need it most

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

by Azabullsfan on Feb 2, 2008 11:37 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Yikes

If they don't beat the Sonics, they're probably going winless on the road trip. Unbelievable.

by Big D on Feb 2, 2008 11:37 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

And the Sonics have been winning lately...

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Feb 2, 2008 11:38 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I was actually planning on attending

the Sonics game early on in the season.

At this point, I wouldn't even think about wasting my time, money or frustration.
Let alone parking...

How ugly can this season get, really?

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 2, 2008 11:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

It's not "unbelievable".

It is very possible :-(

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

by Azabullsfan on Feb 2, 2008 11:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Absolutely picture perfect

BW has the ball down low, and he passes it out to Hinbrick - who throws up a lame duck and then the Bulls foul on the rebound.

Ab-so-freakin-lut-ely beeee-uuu-teee-fulll...

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 2, 2008 11:38 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

wow

wonderful play drawn up by Boylan there...kirk holds the ball for 5 seconds only to pass to Noc for a tightly contested deep 3

by ScottieCartwright on Feb 2, 2008 11:39 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

They were trying to get it to BG

on a cit across the court, but he didn't get free.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 11:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

BG woulda just turned it over anyway

good thing he didn't get open - saved a little face.

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 2, 2008 11:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

One thing doesn't seem to change.

The Bulls f'ing cannot score down the stretch, BG or no BG.

I don't know how many games I have seen in the last two years where the Bulls are close in the final two minutes, but can't score key baskets.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 11:40 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

thus, the ever-occurring

issue of needing a low-post guy...hey, maybe we can trade for Gasol...uhhh nevermind

by ScottieCartwright on Feb 2, 2008 11:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

True

But without BG, they get whooped tonight

by Beef Wennington on Feb 2, 2008 11:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

they get whooped tonight

Yeah but a loss is a loss - especially when it's happening just about every night

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 2, 2008 11:54 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Bulls can lose to the worst team in NBA

Then play relatively well about 3Q-s raise some hope and lose it.
What a dissapointment.

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

by Azabullsfan on Feb 2, 2008 11:41 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Sigh

And the Bulls maintain pace with the mediocracy that is the bottom half of the Eastern Conference.

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Feb 2, 2008 11:42 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Muahahah! Losing Is So Hilarious Now.

Each day Paxson looks more and more like a scrub and worthy of only analyzing tape for Phil like he did many years ago.

by BiNgO on Feb 2, 2008 11:42 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

I suppose I should take solace in the fact that

the Bulls were competitive.

But it isn't much comfort.

The scatalogical tour of the NBA's sewers continues, with the Bulls starring as the unidentifiable, bobbing mass.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 11:44 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

maybe a full strength

Joe Smith helps them win this game...who knows...but it was certainly theirs to lose...which they did

by ScottieCartwright on Feb 2, 2008 11:47 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

I hold out hope that Luol's return

will make us a good team.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Feb 2, 2008 11:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Looking at the box score...

we had too many fouls and too many turnovers, but we shot the ball well from the field and really well from the free throw line and 3 point range. I was trying to come up with a good reason why we lost this game and the only conclusion that I have come to is we are just not a very good team. This is the kind of game that only bad teams lose. We are a bad team and so we found a way to lose tonight.

Why don't you crack an egg of knowledge all over me, buddy.

by MarketMaker on Feb 2, 2008 11:47 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

We are

a bad team down the stretch. Something that has been going on for years now. Only now we are a bad team on a number of other areas so that the first fault really kills us.

by cranscape on Feb 2, 2008 11:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

the calls or lack thereof

make a big difference in a 4 point game.

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Feb 2, 2008 11:56 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Ric Bucher

Just said the Spurs have inquired about TT . . . hmm, for Manu?! LOL

by Option27 on Feb 2, 2008 11:47 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

you know better Option

link??

by ScottieCartwright on Feb 2, 2008 11:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

There was no link

I just saw it on ESPN and they were talking about teams in the west that need to make moves now that the Lakers look to be the favs.

Buches said The Spurs have inquired about TT.

I know they wouldn't give up Manu but maybe for the right package, they would?

by Option27 on Feb 2, 2008 11:55 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Thabo

should've been in the game at the end...Noc was playing like dry crap and Khryapa was no better

Come on Boylan...at least ACT like you know what you're doing...he disappoints me more each game

by ScottieCartwright on Feb 2, 2008 11:49 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Come on Boylan

Skiles was a task master with an ego problem.

Boylan is even more of an idiot and doesn't even have an EGO to help balance his BS...

From there, the math is rather basic.

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 2, 2008 11:58 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Where to start..

refs.. tech on BG? wtf? a few other calls, such as the charge on viktor..

not enough touches for BG at the end of the game..

listening to the sacramento feed made me want to puke when they were saying what miller must have been saying to noah and how he schooled him etc. and how they kept calling noah the rookie. ugh.

by Jaina on Feb 2, 2008 11:54 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Did you have the TV or radio feed?

The TV guys had to be drooling over Miller - they couldn't find enough wonderful stuff to say about him - and it was driving me nuts. Most decidedly not objective about it. (Not that I am, but I'm also not on TV calling the game!)

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Feb 3, 2008 12:01 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

TV

on league pass. it was awful. i usually hate listening to the opposing team's announcers, and while these didn't rank of the worst I've heard, i've definitely heard ones that annoy me less too. it was just ridiculous how they were trying to be funny by being like "not in here rookie!" or whatever the hell they were saying.

and they actually agreed with that charge called on viktor. i may be a homer but i try to be objective with my calls. that wasn't the right one.

by Jaina on Feb 3, 2008 12:08 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

They lost

again but they played hard tonight. Too many fouls and some shit calls or non calls from the refs. Nice to see BG back and in form. Hopefully they get a win Monday night in Seattle.

Never went to church camp but I did go to Girl Scout camp. If you ever need help making a campfire I'm your girl. :P

by sue369 on Feb 3, 2008 12:02 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

Sue

You are so optimistic, its adorable.

I, on the other hand now wants to see this team lose as much as possible just to show Pax what kind of team this really is and maybe get a high draft pick that entices a team to trade with us now that everyone has low opinions on our players

by Option27 on Feb 3, 2008 12:05 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

That's really sad

Never went to church camp but I did go to Girl Scout camp. If you ever need help making a campfire I'm your girl. :P

by sue369 on Feb 3, 2008 12:08 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

adorable

I can think of a different word for it...
Geesh...I think I'm gonna be sick.

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 3, 2008 12:09 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

More likely

Durant will show these dismal Bulls pukes how a REAL rookie should approach the game.

Is it spring training yet?

by Bluelou on Feb 3, 2008 12:07 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

good effort tonight overall, but

Would have been nice to steal one on the road in Sac.

As posted above, it could be a rough road trip, not to mention a rough month.

the Bulls got a nice payback from the refs after that last Sac game in Chicago when Wallace scored one point and it was the game-winning point, then Miller got fouled on the final shot but the Bulls got away with a no-call.

Tyrus rough 4th quarter big minutes was disappointing as well.

Seattle is a must-win, or else we could be looking at an 0-6 stretch until we play the hapless Heat in the last game before the All Star Break.

by Orlando Woolridge on Feb 3, 2008 12:28 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

let's face it...

.. the bulls will continue to live and die by the jump shot. they will stay tantalizingly close when someone gets a hot hand... maybe they'll win a few when 2 or more players have a decent game, but that's about it.

the league has figured out that wallace is over the hill, and that the bulls have no confidence in any of their young bigs, so its like playing 5 on 3. that's right, 5 on 3. it actually hurts me to see wallace out on the floor now. there's a physical pain in my gut when i see wallace srutting around the floor, knowing that he's just a shell of what he once was. it's time to play thomas and noah. if the bulls are going down in flames, at least let them learn in the process.

by leeac on Feb 3, 2008 1:37 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

Was gonna

go to the Seattle game but whats the point im not driving across the border to see them loose and get all riled up for nothing. It would be cool to see Durant go for 32 against them though.

by eross226 on Feb 3, 2008 2:04 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

Memphis' perception of Bulls offer

Memphis owner Heisley reveals reasons Grizz rejected Bulls offer

I realized it when we tried to negotiate with Chicago. They weren't interested in giving us financial relief. We had other conversations with teams and the people they were giving us back were veterans with substantial money left on their contracts. They were not of the same quality that Pau was.

We didn't feel like we had a trade that was going to give us quality for quality or someone that would change the direction of the team that much. We had conversations with Chicago which were non-satisfactory. They didn't want to take on the luxury-tax situation and Los Angeles was. In this league, if you're in a big-market area you can afford to do those things. We negotiated as hard as we could for quality players and (Chicago) refused to give up anybody in their core group. What they offered us were guys who play on the second and third team, so we turned them down.

by chgobr on Feb 3, 2008 8:28 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

More sad news from Heisley

Heisley reports Bulls were close to deal with Lakers to rid themselves of the Corpse

"We were worried that the Lakers might do the deal with Chicago," said Heisley, who had learned the Lakers were talking about sending Brown and Radmanovic to Chicago for Ben Wallace.

That would have taken Brown's expiring contract off the table; the Grizzlies decided they had to act.

"Otherwise we'd be like Chicago is today," Heisley said, "and gotten nothing done."

by chgobr on Feb 3, 2008 8:42 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Now we know

that Pax is trying to get rid of BW. Just wish it would have worked out.

Never went to church camp but I did go to Girl Scout camp. If you ever need help making a campfire I'm your girl. :P

by sue369 on Feb 3, 2008 10:03 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Sue - good point

I find it interesting that BaB had the Laker proposal discussed thoroughly before this admission by Heisley.

by chgobr on Feb 3, 2008 10:13 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

what's really interesting

is that the bulls were used as pawns in this deal to force the grizzles to accept such a low offer. If the bulls are 28-18 instead of the other way around, the grizzles would have either been able to play the bulls and laker off of each other, or gotten a better deal from either. It was a buyers market and the bulls weren't going to have leverage either way.

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Feb 3, 2008 11:02 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Bynum's injury hurt us and got the Lakers involved

We made the best offer last year with PJ's expiring contract and the Grizz weren't ready to make a trade. The stars didn't line up for us on this one. I think what bothers me the most is that we lost the opportunity to get rid of the Corpse via LA. Heisley clearly implied that LA would have considered the Corpse if Gasol wasn't available.

by chgobr on Feb 3, 2008 12:15 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Excuse my language

but fuck this. This really disappoints me. I hate to be so negative, but this sort of shows me that perhaps we can't make a deal is because no one really wants to deal with us. This is making the perception of how the Bulls deal even worse. But maybe it's right - maybe the only deals we could get done were with the Knicks is because Isaiah is a complete douchebag and is the only one in the league who will deal with us - so instead of it being because Pax is so great, it is just because Isaiah is that dumb. (Draft night deals for rookies don't really count, that's not a "major trade.") I don't know who Memphis wanted from us, but we obviously knew what they wanted (financial relief) and were unwilling to provide - thus we lost. I don't know.. this whole thing just disheartens me.

by Jaina on Feb 3, 2008 12:06 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

It depresses me also.

by chgobr on Feb 3, 2008 12:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Mariotti's ears are burning

"In this league, if you're in a big-market area you can afford to do those things" From a 'Chicago guy'. Ouch, Heisley...

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Feb 3, 2008 11:20 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Wow

I find it pretty amazing Heisley, as an NBA owner, would throw another team under the bus like that. Obviously he doesn't have very good feelings about the Bulls.

"When Chicago broke up the Bulls, I was fuming for three days," he said. "I get it. I understand. And the Bulls still aren't back."

"They didn't want to take on the luxury-tax situation and Los Angeles was. In this league, if you're in a big-market area you can afford to do those things."

-I still think they could have jinned up an expiring contract or two for Noc or Smith, but this quote makes me wish Heisley owned the Bulls.

by Sports2 on Feb 3, 2008 11:30 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Sounds like sour grapes to me

I think he would have rather traded with the bulls for the pieces they were offering, but had to take the best financial deal instead. And if he waited, the bulls and lakers make a deal and he would be screwed. Why should the bulls give up youngsters and take on his bad contracts?

Nocioni-Khryapa in '08

by bullshooter on Feb 3, 2008 3:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Cheer up!

Each loss brings us closer to a higher lottery pick!

I can see the Bulls drafting around 9th again.

I'm so used to the Bulls losing this year that I've become apathetic and expecting a fourth/third quarter breakdown.

by RogersPark Kris on Feb 3, 2008 10:57 AM CST reply actions 0 recs

Im not upset about

how we didnt get Gasol but how we almost got rid of the BW.

by eross226 on Feb 3, 2008 2:27 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

me too

damn Lakers.

by KT on Feb 3, 2008 3:08 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

me three

That's the most disappointing. Maybe a more forceful Pax can make it happen. I don't fault him for not trading up 6 years in age for a moderate improvement.

Let us prepare for glory! --Michael Redd

by tyger1147 on Feb 3, 2008 11:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs

Same here.

Never went to church camp but I did go to Girl Scout camp. If you ever need help making a campfire I'm your girl. :P

by sue369 on Feb 4, 2008 9:41 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

On the bright side

at least it's out that the team was actively trying (well, actively in Paxson terms)to move Wallace. If nothing else, this should somewhat diminish his over-inflated stature in the locker room.

"Otherwise we'd be like Chicago is today," Heisley said, "and gotten nothing done."

by alec on Feb 4, 2008 10:08 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs

what the hell?

I don't understand why Memphis and the Bulls didn't leverage the Lakers into making the Wallace trade; then we could have given them the Brown contract for that financial relief, IN ADDITION to some better young talent (Tyrus) or the wild-eyed Argentine they so covet.

Now I find out we missed out on a chance to trade Wallace AND get Gasol?

Go UCLA. That's all I've got to say.

by Freethefro on Feb 3, 2008 3:45 PM CST reply actions 0 recs

Luxury Tax

I'm sick of this crap about luxury tax. I said this past summer that I wouldn't mind the Nocioni signing if it did not preclude us from making other deals (specifically, gordon and deng). It's not like Reinsdorf is hurting from money or, even more significantly, anywhere near running a red-inked organization. The Bulls are comfortably in the black and promise to be so for, well, forever. I take it as a slap in the face that they can charge fans what they do, make a very healthy profit and then cry poor when the time comes to give us a better product. This team has been miserable this year and it's been rough to be a fan. While the coaching has been questionable and the play disappointing (maybe even repulsive), the luxury tax ceiling being imposed by Reinsdorf is plain offensive. Don't get me wrong, I'm all for taking a fiscally responsible approach to team-building.. ...it's just the financially dicking that doesn't sit well with me.

"...Keeping 'SlowHand' alive since aught-five"

by CookDing on Feb 4, 2008 10:39 AM CST reply actions 0 recs