Open Game Thread (Rant) # 67: Bulls vs. New Jersey Nets

by wjb1492 on Mar 18, 2008 4:49 PM CDT Comment 211 comments

[ed note: Thanks to wjb1492 for the game preview. This is great stuff. By the way, I'm one of the 'lucky' ones that's referenced at the end. -Matt]

With more than 80% of the season gone now, and the Bulls barely clinging to that 10th spot in the East while still talking about making the playoffs, what is left to say about this team?

We've all heard that stat about the Bulls not having won 3 in a row all season. I recently read a blurb stating that the other teams without a 3-game winning streat this season are the Heat, Grizzlies, and Timberwolves. That's some fine company to be in! (Sorry, I don't remember where I read that to link to the original.)
I think we can pretty much conclude that no lead is safe. I'm not sure whether I feel worse when the team gets blown out from the opening tip or builds a lead then coughs the game up late.
Boylan's post-game speeches seriously sound like a fill-in-the-blank multiple choice thing. "Tonight we lacked ___ (choose from (a) an answer, (b) effort, (c) leadership). I am ___ (choose from (a) in charge here, (b) a professional, (c) responsible for the development of whichever random player did well tonight." I'd have some sympathy for him trying to figure out what to say loss after loss, except he says such stupid things and doesn't seem to have any recognition of his own role in all of these losses.
The unpredicatble guard rotation is driving me nuts, so I can only imagine that it's making them absolutely crazy - Duhon aside, since we know how he feels about it. Ben's minutes have ranged from 14 to 33 a night this month, Kirk's from 16 to 41, and Larry's from 18 to 43. I'd include Thabo, but since he's either still on a minutes limit or earning his way back into the lineup, his minutes have been consistently low.

Enjoy the game, everyone, especially those of you lucky enough to be there in person!

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

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a loss tonight

and that's 'realistically' it, right? You'd think it has to be.

by your friendly BullsBlogger on Mar 18, 2008 4:57 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I keep imagining this nightmare scenario

where the Bulls are tied for the last playoff spot going into the final game. That would mean another month of this "still not out of it" crap.

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Mar 18, 2008 5:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

it was Ben's turn to sit on the bench Friday night and Kirk's last night so it must be Hughes turn tonight. Boylan's an idiot so who knows. The only thing I can think of why Thabo didn't play much last night is he is still bothered by his injury. But again Boylan is an idiot. :-)

by sue369 on Mar 18, 2008 5:00 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

i think thabo is feeling fine

and boylan is an idiot

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 7:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

On the brightside

when theres no more hope, the continual 4th quarter collapses will turn from the darkest of dark comedy to more airy and jim carrey like

by lampnasty on Mar 18, 2008 5:02 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Nice preview, WJ.

I am definitely going to heckle Boylan tonight. Maybe I'll make a sign, just to alleviate the boredom.

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

by 1958ChiTown on Mar 18, 2008 5:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

If I lived

in the Chicago area I'd have my ass in front of the UC for every home game remaining carrying a sign saying "Boylan is an idiot needs to go".

by sue369 on Mar 18, 2008 5:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I predict

a Bulls loss tonight. One so bad Paxson has no choice but to fire Boylan immediately. I just hope I can watch TT, Thabo and JONOAH play some meaningfull minutes.

by Bulls4Ever on Mar 18, 2008 5:30 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

We can only hope

At this point I'd rather see Scottie Pippen in there.

by Takeaseat on Mar 18, 2008 5:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pax will not

fire Boylan for what little is left of this season. The season is over and deep down Pax knows this.

by sue369 on Mar 18, 2008 6:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

And for that, PAX should be fired

because a new coach - whoever it is - would likely translate into enough "newness happyness" for the players to play well enough to win themselves a playoff spot.

Spring training....FINALLY!!

by Bluelou on Mar 18, 2008 6:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Game preview of the year!

If there were Oscars for BAB postings over the course of the season, this one would be far and away the game preview of the year. Using embedded links to add snark always earns points in my book (partially because I know how much extra work the html requires).

To the things we can say about this team, let me add that Joakim Noah has been a revelation. In the most disappointing season that I have ever experienced as a Bulls fan, he has been the lone reason for hope. His numbers of late have regressed a bit and I imagine he's hitting his rookie wall now, but the enthusiasm he brings to the court night in night out reminds me of why I loved the Bulls so much the last two seasons. (Oh wait, was Joakim appreciation day last week? Sorry, couldn't help myself) Here's to a Boylan-free future.

by paxson43 on Mar 18, 2008 6:01 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I didn't even set the DVR to record this

I'll probably catch cursory glances from the gym. I think the basketball there is better coached than the Bulls under Boylan.

The Kids Must Stay In The Picture!!!

by NBA Observer on Mar 18, 2008 6:04 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

chants

I'll be there, too. Any chance we can get a FIRE BOYLAN chant going?

by Stay Chisel on Mar 18, 2008 6:10 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

How 'bout a simple

"Boy-lan-sucks!" chant?

Spring training....FINALLY!!

by Bluelou on Mar 18, 2008 6:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Enjoy the game(s)

The Lakers / Mavs game is on at the same time (for those watching NBALP)...

Let's see...LAKERS?
or the Bulls?

Hmmm....tough choice....(not)

I'll prolly record the Bulls and watch the Lakers live - that way if (when) the Bulls game goes to crap I can just fast-forward through to the miserable end.

Spring training....FINALLY!!

by Bluelou on Mar 18, 2008 6:14 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

That's a top shelf preview & recent summary

A montage of Bulls/Boylan suckitude. At best, tonight's game will be in the background while I spend time drilling holes in my hand...

"I'm very important. I have many leather-bound books and my apartment smells of rich mahogany." - Ron Burgundy

by mdmnd9294 on Mar 18, 2008 6:15 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Hehehe!

Oh...and don't forget the Celts / Rockets game at 6:30 ET on TNT...

There IS good basketball being played tonight...it's just a matter of what you wanna put yourself through. :-)

Spring training....FINALLY!!

by Bluelou on Mar 18, 2008 6:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

or the opening round game for the ncaa's

two crappy teams that would give the bulls a headache any night

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 7:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

wjb1492 - you topped yourself with this preview

I cannot avoid watching tonight and following the blog despite the horrible season. Great preview!

by chgobr on Mar 18, 2008 7:19 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Great preview

I can't believe how many people are already in here. Are you guys really going to watch the game? (I am...)

Baby Bulls II?

by bullshooter on Mar 18, 2008 7:29 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Thanks everyone for the comments on the preview

It was a little therapeutic to write, honestly.

I'm just so glad I have someplace to come and share my Bulls angst with people who feel the same frustration!

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Mar 18, 2008 7:35 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

i think stacey king really wanted his key

to the game to be "make it fast this shit has gotten brutal"

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 7:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Loose balls and penetration?

Nobody seems to be editing the graphics at comcast...

Baby Bulls II?

by bullshooter on Mar 18, 2008 7:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

i was laughing

when kerr said "loose balls, that all i've got to talk about"

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 7:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Guess this isn't a family broadcast, eh?

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Mar 18, 2008 7:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'll still watch

Just to hopefully get that occasional glimpse of that Noah/Thomas frontcourt

by Option27 on Mar 18, 2008 7:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

uh oh hinrich missed a fg

boylan better sit him for the duration

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 7:43 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

He probably just wants to keep the streak going

by RogersPark Kris on Mar 18, 2008 7:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

haha

nice

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 7:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hughes is not shy about shooting

by RogersPark Kris on Mar 18, 2008 7:44 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

it seems like 15 minutes ago i was sitting

on this very couch watching the end of the hornets game vowing to never watch again, why do i do this to myself??

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 7:48 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

the better question might be

why do you do this to us?

Baby Bulls II?

by bullshooter on Mar 18, 2008 7:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

yeah

probably

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 7:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

how many seconds until Noc gets a shot up?

20?

Baby Bulls II?

by bullshooter on Mar 18, 2008 7:51 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

did anybody count

it wasn't more than 25...

Baby Bulls II?

by bullshooter on Mar 18, 2008 7:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

"It's time" is already here!!!

Noc replacing Noah.

Hot! Hot! Hot!!! This telecast is getting turned off. I'll wait for bullshitter to tell me when Tyrus has earned his minutes.

Let us prepare for glory! --Michael Redd

by tyger1147 on Mar 18, 2008 7:51 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

BTW...

...I have ZERO DOUBT that Deng is going to breakout as a superstar for the Bulls next year. He's ready.

Let us prepare for glory! --Michael Redd

by tyger1147 on Mar 18, 2008 7:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I have a sneaky suspicion

that Deng is also being "showcased"...

Baby Bulls II?

by bullshooter on Mar 18, 2008 7:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Good!!! Showcase him then!!!

There is no doubt he is a good player and we can get something of value for him. But I'm tired of all you fantasy land guys who see superstardom in this guy. He has very little athletic upside and is already very close to his ceiling. He's not like Kevin Durant who will grow into his body and likely be an offensive beast in the league for quite a while. The only thing Deng can really do is add a post-up game but he has been reluctant to do that. I'd rather add a true post threat if that's possible. We have enough guys that shoot 19 foot jump shots already so Deng can go!

by lexdiamonds0730 on Mar 18, 2008 9:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Tyger, what are you smoking????

What have you seen out of Deng that makes you think he'll be anything but an average to above average small forward? Are you kidding me?

Don't be fooled by this "solid" performance today. As I've said on several occassions, in blowouts either way, Deng looks great. But when the game is tight, he pulls his "David Copperfield" disappearing basketball player act. And don't tell me about what he did last year against the Heat in the playoffs. What has he done for you lately???

He'll be decent, but no "breakout" superstar. I GUARANTEE you that one of next years rookies becomes an all-star/superstar before Deng does. Hell, I'll go so far as to say one of the 2009 Draft rookies will be a superstar before Deng and we have no idea who'll be coming out. Hopefully though, whichever rookie we draft is the one that becomes that superstar!!!

by lexdiamonds0730 on Mar 18, 2008 9:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What the fuck?!

Noah os already out?!

AND FOR NOC!?

by Option27 on Mar 18, 2008 7:52 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Seriously...

...Nocioni is bad. I hope he's used as the "other piece" in a sign-and-trade w/ Gordon.

Let us prepare for glory! --Michael Redd

by tyger1147 on Mar 18, 2008 7:55 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

he has never helped this team

ever

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 7:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

you have to admit

he's entertaining

Baby Bulls II?

by bullshooter on Mar 18, 2008 7:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

So if the Bulls

We can blame it on the second game of a back to back

by RogersPark Kris on Mar 18, 2008 7:56 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I'd blame on all the nets layups

Baby Bulls II?

by bullshooter on Mar 18, 2008 7:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

It's too easy for New Jersey to get to the rim

Why?

Cause those Bulls love to go small

by Option27 on Mar 18, 2008 7:58 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

OMG!!!!!

Tyrus, Joakim and Thabo all on the court at the same time!

PINCH ME NOW!

by Option27 on Mar 18, 2008 8:03 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

with Kirk and BG

ladies and gentlemen, your 2008-2009 Chicago Bulls.

Baby Bulls II?

by bullshooter on Mar 18, 2008 8:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

deng

6th man of the year

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 8:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'd rather Deng

Be included...

But hey, can't be greedy

by Option27 on Mar 18, 2008 8:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

probably be better off

with two gaurds starting anyways

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 8:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Good lord, Tyrus

That block was straight-up filthy

by Illini15 on Mar 18, 2008 8:04 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Tyrus baby!

by gobulls1124 on Mar 18, 2008 8:05 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

who let Kirk shoot that?

Baby Bulls II?

by bullshooter on Mar 18, 2008 8:05 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

wow

an end-of-quarter shot that actually worked

by NormVanBeer on Mar 18, 2008 8:05 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

wat are the odds tyrus is on the court to start

the 2nd...or for that matter comes in again this game?

by lampnasty on Mar 18, 2008 8:06 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Man, only 2 assists for the whole team

that quarter.

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Mar 18, 2008 8:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Let's all just take notice

what kinda run the Bulls just went on with Joakim, Tyrus and Thabo all in at the same time.

I could only hope Boylan is actually watching the game

by Option27 on Mar 18, 2008 8:11 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I'm still stunned he stumbled upon that lineup

to start with. It took long enough.

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Mar 18, 2008 8:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

but he always does this

i don't know why its clear to us they are effective together and he can't see it

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 8:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'd like to see this lineup for another few minute

and then bench all 5 of them for the rest of the game. No sense in winning games now.

Baby Bulls II?

by bullshooter on Mar 18, 2008 8:11 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Holy dunk by swift

:jawdrop

by Illini15 on Mar 18, 2008 8:13 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

What was that hand thing he did after the dunk?

by RogersPark Kris on Mar 18, 2008 8:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

hand sign

looked like a modified, elevated form of the suck it sign

by Illini15 on Mar 18, 2008 8:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Deng at the 4

Awful.

by Illini15 on Mar 18, 2008 8:16 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

yeah if you're bringing deng in

it has to be for thabo or bg

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 8:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

that screen and roll is always there

gotta feed him more often

by California Al on Mar 18, 2008 8:16 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

It was good seeing you Tyrus

Catch up with ya next game buddy

by gobulls1124 on Mar 18, 2008 8:17 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

You know what I like about Noah?

He gets after the ball. Always seems to be working at getting to the ball.

by California Al on Mar 18, 2008 8:19 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Loved when he saved that one under the basket

and you could see him looking for a teammate instead of just blindly flipping it back inside.

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Mar 18, 2008 8:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The Kid just works constantly... Don't forget...

He gets out there and sets screens too. The corpse didn't do that.

by BiNgO on Mar 18, 2008 8:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

why is boylan going 3 gaurds

he has no idea what he is doing

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 8:19 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

its okay if one of the three is thabo

because he can rebound and guard a three...but if its hughes, kirk, and ben, then we have a problem

by lampnasty on Mar 18, 2008 8:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

we're better defensively with deng, thomas 3,4

rather than thabo, deng 3, 4

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 8:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hey Jim!

Look, you don't need Gooden in there to be effective!

It's possible

by Option27 on Mar 18, 2008 8:20 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Shhhhhhhh

I was just thinking how numbnuts is going to make some subs to close out the half

by California Al on Mar 18, 2008 8:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Frank looks a little stressed

Someone ought to remind him it's the Bulls tonight - no need to worry till the 4th quarter.

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Mar 18, 2008 8:23 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

God I know the Bulls are bad offensively

But imagine a starting 5 of Hinrich, Sefolosha, Deng, Thomas and Noah . . .

That defense would be insane

by Option27 on Mar 18, 2008 8:23 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

that should be our lineup

and i hope it is next year

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 8:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Man, that would be fuckin' great

Gordon and the rest come off the bench but in limited roles

by Option27 on Mar 18, 2008 8:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

yup

i think gooden and maybe even hughes would be good for us coming off the bench if we started those guys every night

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 8:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That is a great lineup

I would just like Thabo add strength in the off season. He's very talented and over the long stretch that could be the difference. He has the mentality to be a top guard in the league. Lots of untapped ablity.

by Takeaseat on Mar 18, 2008 9:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That is the

lineup I want to see now and next season.

by sue369 on Mar 18, 2008 8:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

at this moment

both the Bulls AND the Lakers are up by 10....

good omen

Spring training....FINALLY!!

by Bluelou on Mar 18, 2008 8:25 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

and watch this lead dwindle with gooden at 5

by lampnasty on Mar 18, 2008 8:27 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

nevermind...thank god for josh boone

by lampnasty on Mar 18, 2008 8:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Deng at Pf... Deng at Pf?... Deng at PF!

Slowly anger rising. Slowly anger rising... HULK SMASH BOYLAN!

by danger mouse on Mar 18, 2008 8:27 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

When did the Bulls remember how to pass?

ssia

by Illini15 on Mar 18, 2008 8:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

You know, they have these plays where they look

absolutely great, and it's like ripping the band-aid off the great "what if" of this season.

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Mar 18, 2008 8:29 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

boylan better find some minutes for thabo

AT THE 2 GAURD in the second half or...else?

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 8:32 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

be happy

you should be happy right now...noce isn't playing at all man

by Illini15 on Mar 18, 2008 8:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

dude i am happy

but i'm happy all the time this season and then get screwed late in games with boylan's stupid lineups

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 8:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

if they blow this game...

just forfeit the rest of the season

by Illini15 on Mar 18, 2008 8:36 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

i am still pretty confident

NJ gets 100 points

Baby Bulls II?

by bullshooter on Mar 18, 2008 8:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I was just thinking

WTF would I do if they blew this one

Blow me head off?

by Option27 on Mar 18, 2008 8:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

hahaha

by Illini15 on Mar 18, 2008 8:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Kirk was playing so well

Let's hope he's fine

But Thabo? He may be our best player

by Option27 on Mar 18, 2008 8:36 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Yup.

by YaoPau on Mar 18, 2008 10:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What if we lose?

by gobulls1124 on Mar 18, 2008 8:37 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

We're all thinking that

It didn't used to be like this...

BAB Tyrus Love-Meter -- 7 - Unhealthily making excuses for missing practice

by cubbybear on Mar 18, 2008 8:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

even 24 points don't cut it

that too can evaporate in just 12 minutes with the Bulls under Boylan...

Strap it down for the 2nd half!

Spring training....FINALLY!!

by Bluelou on Mar 18, 2008 8:38 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Wow! This could be the biggest lead this year.....

pissed away in the 4th quarter.

by BiNgO on Mar 18, 2008 8:38 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

well i am gonna be confident

and i say we win, and thabo will get more minutes, and kirk will be fine, and tt will play a little, and noce will come in and argue some fould calls

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 8:40 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

The funny thing is

If the lead really gets big, instead of sticking to the lineups we all wanna see, Boylan will just find away to get Gray in some work instead of Tyrus or Joakim

by Option27 on Mar 18, 2008 8:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Is there really any doubt?

Am I the only one who's been watching these games? Boylan's going to experiment with the lineup in the second half, you know he is.

Baby Bulls II?

by bullshooter on Mar 18, 2008 8:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Of Course!

If he just plays the 6 guys who everyone in the country know ought to be out there, what do we need him for? Oh, yeah; I've been asking that regardless of the circumstances.

by California Al on Mar 18, 2008 8:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Unlike prev NJ humiliations

It looks like Thabo will actually get to play tonight, and we won't get schooled that size matters

by California Al on Mar 18, 2008 8:44 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

As always

a pretty good first half. Can we just call it a game now? Please don't cave in the second half.

I'm really getting tired of Noch and his shit. He has played horrible the last couple of games.

Kirk redeemed himself the first half. I hope his knee is ok.

by sue369 on Mar 18, 2008 8:46 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

i would like to see tyrus as much as the next guy

but he did really bad offensivly in that half, but his d was great and hopefully he gets time to make up for the bad offense

by bullzfan148 on Mar 18, 2008 8:46 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I'm buying NBA 2k8:

this way I get to have all the good players in at once! Oh my god, it will be amazing.
Anyways. I predict final score:
Nets 96
Bulls 92
We enter the fourth quarter up by 8, piss the lead away some more.

by Prevenge on Mar 18, 2008 8:47 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I play NBA 2k7

And Thabo is my point guard, leading the league in scoring. He's money around the hoop. Ben Wallace does little, Tyrus scores some, blocks a lot, and Deng is super-consistent. Gordon can light it up, sometimes. I'm also a year ahead, and I've traded some guys (Kirk, Noc).

BAB Tyrus Love-Meter -- 6 - Recognizing that he may only be the next Shawn Kemp

by cubbybear on Mar 18, 2008 8:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I got 2k8

Its pretty real, however, i completely uber trained kirk and now in the year 2011 kirk is the mvp. His numbers are something insane like 22 pts per game, 17 assists per game, 7 steals per game, and a turnover rate 2.9 per game. I think its more because i play 12 min quarters, and i know how to uber train all my players. I wish 2k would do more with the association mode. 2k7 had the best pre game and halftime stuff, 2k8 tries to bring the game back to a halfcourt style of play yet its still easy to run the fast break. Creating your own player and drafting is still pretty awesome though. My fav. game.

Kirk Hinrich. The FORMER Best White American Point Guard in the NBA, Will Soon be Traded :(

by piccolomair on Mar 18, 2008 10:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Huh.

I'd get 2k7, but I'm in love with Noah. Like, seriously.
We'll see, I printed out the 10% off coupon for buying it tomorrow. :P

by Prevenge on Mar 18, 2008 10:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

In my 2k8

Ben wallace is a beast. Basically you can pick a good center or power forward with ben wallace pretty well. Too bad he is not like that in real life. Joakim though gets real good real fast as the years go by.

Kirk Hinrich. The FORMER Best White American Point Guard in the NBA, Will Soon be Traded :(

by piccolomair on Mar 18, 2008 11:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Bulls inability to finish....

is a real liability...

i could see this squad being like the Kings from five years ago in the years to come unless they get a bona fide leader or Noah keeps developing into a first class force in the league..

by Orlando Woolridge on Mar 18, 2008 9:00 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

12-5 run by NJ to start the 3rd

nice way to start....not.

Spring training....FINALLY!!

by Bluelou on Mar 18, 2008 9:02 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

HERE IT IS!

I love this collapse!

by Option27 on Mar 18, 2008 9:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

And the Boylan blow continues

why wouldn't TT go in now?
No....it's gonna be Noc...

Lead is down to 11 and falling

Spring training....FINALLY!!

by Bluelou on Mar 18, 2008 9:08 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

hahahahaha

here it comes! deng at the 4! only up 11!

by Illini15 on Mar 18, 2008 9:08 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

and Gordon on Carter

motherf

by California Al on Mar 18, 2008 9:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

on the other hand

the Lakers are still UP by 20...

Spring training....FINALLY!!

by Bluelou on Mar 18, 2008 9:09 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

thabo is so good

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 9:10 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

boylan is a dick...

..what a way to give up the lead again....

by bullsfaninbigapple on Mar 18, 2008 9:11 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Gordon, Hughes, Tabo, Noc, Deng

Really???

by Illini15 on Mar 18, 2008 9:11 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Nocioni at the 5! Nocioni at the 5!

he's done it! Boylan has done it!

He is actively trying to lose. Put in Brown, Boylan. Go for it all!

by danger mouse on Mar 18, 2008 9:12 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

LOL

by gobulls1124 on Mar 18, 2008 9:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

not only

is he at the 5, but he's taking worse shots at the 5 than he would at the 3...

by NormVanBeer on Mar 18, 2008 9:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You guys sound surprised...

Baby Bulls II?

by bullshooter on Mar 18, 2008 9:13 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

not even

one tiny f'in bit. Is numbnuts on acid?

by California Al on Mar 18, 2008 9:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Is Noch really in at the 5?

How bout this, Boylan? Thatbo on Carter, Deng on Jefferson, Noah and Gooden/TT underneath, and take your pick at the point.

by California Al on Mar 18, 2008 9:14 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

WHAT THE FUCK IS THIS LINEUP

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 9:15 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

The worst lineup

OF THE YEAR!

by Option27 on Mar 18, 2008 9:16 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Are we sure this isn't tanking?

No one can think this is a remotely good lineup, right?

by Illini15 on Mar 18, 2008 9:16 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

why would boylan want to look bad

he should be trying to showcase himself as a head coach. he is just an awful one and clearly does not know what he is doing

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 9:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The Comeback

by gobulls1124 on Mar 18, 2008 9:19 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

BG just got decked

lol

by Illini15 on Mar 18, 2008 9:21 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

what a terrible quarter

lets go for the terrible loss

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 9:21 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Hey, we oughta feel great

They only gave up 13 of their 24 point lead in the quarter. That's actually an improvement!

Of course, I wouldn't place odds on how long it takes to blow the rest of the lead.

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Mar 18, 2008 9:23 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

at least skiles had brains....

by bullsfaninbigapple on Mar 18, 2008 9:23 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I miss him

I wonder what the team would be like with him and no Wallace.

by gobulls1124 on Mar 18, 2008 9:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Bulls down to an 11 point lead going into the 4th

here we goooooo

Spring training....FINALLY!!

by Bluelou on Mar 18, 2008 9:24 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Deng's help defense

is just godawful

by Orlando Woolridge on Mar 18, 2008 9:25 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Single digits

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

by Illini15 on Mar 18, 2008 9:26 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

someone needs to tell BG

that you need to have your feet planted to draw an offensive foul...

geesh...

Spring training....FINALLY!!

by Bluelou on Mar 18, 2008 9:26 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

By the way, Where's Noah?

by Illini15 on Mar 18, 2008 9:27 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Where's Noah?

Exactly.

Spring training....FINALLY!!

by Bluelou on Mar 18, 2008 9:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

It would be nice if Boylan occasionally thought

that if he planned on wanting Deng and Gooden in there at the end (for whatever reason...) then maybe a little rest here would be good - not to mention that would get Ty and Joakim on the floor again.

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Mar 18, 2008 9:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Put Noah back in....

...you useless piece of shit...

by bullsfaninbigapple on Mar 18, 2008 9:29 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

4 guard lineup?

hahahahaha

by Illini15 on Mar 18, 2008 9:32 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

BG is worthless in these 3 G lineups

turns it over EVERY time

Spring training....FINALLY!!

by Bluelou on Mar 18, 2008 9:33 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

that was

his first turnover in awhile...calm down, it was a deflected pass

by NormVanBeer on Mar 18, 2008 9:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

wrong impression

I'm not excited - just stating a point.

Spring training....FINALLY!!

by Bluelou on Mar 18, 2008 9:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

how bad is NJ

that they can't make this comeback happen. The bulls are begging them to take it...

Baby Bulls II?

by bullshooter on Mar 18, 2008 9:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

okay...is it safe to assume

that the Bulls can hold on with 19 pts and just over half the quarter left?

Spring training....FINALLY!!

by Bluelou on Mar 18, 2008 9:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I think best never to assume anything

with this team.

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Mar 18, 2008 9:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What's this?

A Bulls run in the 4th? I'm so confused.

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Mar 18, 2008 9:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Boylan might be back next season

Does Boylan keep his job next year? He has this team playing better than skiles did.

by armstrong2389 on Mar 18, 2008 9:35 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

please don't talk like that

he better be long gone

by ihatenoce on Mar 18, 2008 9:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

lol

who are you?

Baby Bulls II?

by bullshooter on Mar 18, 2008 9:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

They aren't really playing better

The guys just got confused by the green unis, thought they were the Celtics for a while. Then Boylan called a TO and made some speech about playing like Bulls, so now they're completely lost.

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Mar 18, 2008 9:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Noah

OR THOMAS please?!

by Option27 on Mar 18, 2008 9:38 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

2 bad

shots in a row by Larry

by NormVanBeer on Mar 18, 2008 9:38 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

2 awful shots by Hughes

...and then 2 threes by NJ. shocking really

by Illini15 on Mar 18, 2008 9:38 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

It ain't over till it's over

by gobulls1124 on Mar 18, 2008 9:38 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

boylan just realized he's got 4 guards in

and called time out...
or it is because there's NO defense and NJ just hit back to back 3's?...

Spring training....FINALLY!!

by Bluelou on Mar 18, 2008 9:39 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

free food

gets louder applause than winning at the UC these days...
sigh...

Spring training....FINALLY!!

by Bluelou on Mar 18, 2008 9:46 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

But don't you love seeing the people in

100-level seats eating/drinking concession food you know they paid a fortune for, and cheering madly for that $2 crap sandwich?

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Mar 18, 2008 9:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Holy shit, Beard

that dunk was nastttt

by Illini15 on Mar 18, 2008 9:46 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

how was that not a double dribble?

Baby Bulls II?

by bullshooter on Mar 18, 2008 9:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I think I saw loose balls

on the oprah show today...
My wife pointed it out! LOL

Spring training....FINALLY!!

by Bluelou on Mar 18, 2008 9:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

wow

New Jersey sucks

by Orlando Woolridge on Mar 18, 2008 9:55 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

This game is FOOL'S GOLD!!

Don't be fooled by this performance today. Of course when we shoot 50% from the field and 65% from three we win. But as we all know, we are equally as capable of not hitting a thing. And I gotta touch on "ya boy" Deng. Again, looks great in blowouts either way. But is NEVER there in close games when we REALLY need him. Fool's Gold with him too. And like I told my man Tyger (whose opinion I respect despite the fact that he and I disagree on a lot), don't bring up that Miami Heat series from last year when speaking of Deng. It's not like he did that last week or even last month. That was long ago....and that was Miami who we now know was garbage as hell!!

by lexdiamonds0730 on Mar 18, 2008 9:56 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Come on...

Give him SOME credit. Maybe he isn't the star player you want him to be, but he's still a good player that fills an obvious need.

by Khalid El-Amin on Mar 18, 2008 9:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He's good....

...but I argue against him being great or a superstar in the making because so many on here keep insisting that he is and I wonder what they have seen in him that gives them ANY indication he will be a great player. Like I said before, he is average to above average and is just about at his ceiling.

So I will concede that he's good. I don't dislike Luol Deng. Hell, I'm a Duke fan. Been a Duke fan since Laettner, Hurley and Co. beat my favorite team to that point...the UNLV Runnin' Rebels led by Larry Johnson, Greg Anthony and Stacey Augmon. Nobody wanted Deng to be great like I did. When he was in college, I was CERTAIN he'd be as good as Grant Hill in his prime (without the athleticism). But I just don't see it in him.

by lexdiamonds0730 on Mar 18, 2008 10:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

One of the reasons you don't see it...

Is becuase he is only 22 years old.

To think that he has the skill set he has at 22 is absurd.

His ceiling is so much higher than what you are seeing right now.

I don't know if it's "Grant Hill high" (only a few players ever come along with his skills) but it's definitely through the roof. No reason to think otherwise.

by Khalid El-Amin on Mar 18, 2008 10:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ridiculous argument!!

At the age of 22 or 23 (He will be 23 next month), I would have taken any one of these guys over Deng:

Shawn Marion (#9 pick in '99)
Antoine Walker (#6 pick in '96)
Paul Pierce (#10 pick in '98)
Corey Maggette (#13 pick in '99)
Antawn Jamison (#4 pick in '98)
Ron Artest (#16 pick in '99)
Peja Stojakovic (#14 pick in '96)
etc...

and this is without naming the obvious like LeBron and Carmelo. Here are a few guys who are his age or younger and they have a skill set that surpasses Deng's:

Josh Smith (#17 pick in '04)
Kevin Durant (#1 last year)
J.R. Smith (#18 pick in '04)
Danny Granger (#17 pick in '05)

And it wouldn't surprise me if there are 2 or 3 WING guys drafted this year with greater skill sets than Deng. If Deng was a second rounder then this wouldn't be an issue. But this man was the #7 overall pick and now is a pre-ordained superstar to some here. He was chosen to be a big time impact player as quickly as possible. Damn all this development time. Come with it!!! With the exception of Durant, Deng has had more time to this point in his career to produce than any guy I named above with the exceptions of Walker and Pierce who both walked into starting slots. More should be expected of Deng.

Bottom line is, this guy just isn't getting it done in the manner we need him to at this point so I'm gonna dog his ass (and rightfully so) until he does or until we get someone who can!!!

I'm so sick of us Bulls fans using this "young" thing as an excuse. He wasn't "young" last year when he played well in the playoffs. But now he's "young" again. I respect your opinion Kalid. You make some very valid points on this board. But that "young" thing is an excuse that doesn't fly with me anymore. Bring ya game or don't come at all. That's how I see it!!!

by lexdiamonds0730 on Mar 18, 2008 11:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What in Luol Deng should make me think....

... his ceiling is so much higher than what we see?

Is his ceiling higher than that of Josh Smith's? How about Kevin Durant? Will he ever be even as good as Caron Butler is right now? Or Rashard Lewis? Or Richard Jefferson? Or Iguodala? Or Hedo Turkoglu? Or even Stephen Jackson (who is extremely clutch and you never wonder where he is down the stretch)?

If u don't mind, give me a few SOLID reasons to believe that Deng is nowhere close to his ceiling. Realistically, what can he get better at besides developing a bit of a post game which he seems reluctant to do since he's a physically and mentally weak player. He can't get more athletic, at least I don't think so. What else can he do?

With guys like Smith and Durant, it's plain as day to see that they have plenty of room to improve and they are both already highly effective. Durant will at some point average 30ppg and I see double double averages coming for Smith in the near future (20pts 10rbds and about 3blks). I see nothing more than the same 19pts 7rbd games for Deng FOREVER!!!

by lexdiamonds0730 on Mar 18, 2008 11:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think this year sucked for all bull players

Deng is tricky, he has played injured most of his season. The one season he wasnt injured though he did give alot of the players you mentioned a run for thier money.

THe reason many consider him so good is because he is deadly from mid range shots and his slashing abilities and ability to finish near the rim are astonishing. I think everyone marvles at how he moves well without the ball. He can shoot from 3 pt range, although due to his injured wrist he hasnt done it so much. As a defender he does pretty well when he needs too, sadly this year being a contract year i think he has tried harder to do the things that stick out more.

His biggest flaw has gotta be his handles, luckily he is a very good mover without the ball and can hit pretty well within 20 feet. The organization wanted him to play 2 guard, but i think its a bad idea to give him the ball at the perimeter. Alot of experts had him being in the top 5 for the sf position coming into this year. Since this year is coming off wierd, i dont think we should judge him by this year alone.

Luol does vanish in the 4th quite alot, yet you would think at some point that habit has to leave him. If he stays healthy i think he is terrific (but not untouchable of course). I dont know if he is the best player on the bulls team, but he isnt as bad as you think. Pick a game, any game, from last season, the ONLY season he wasnt injured, and you can see why people like him so much as a player.

I get peoples preference on hinrich and gordon since those two have quite alot of flaws, but deng overall is a good player. Vanishing in the 4th will eventually dissapear with healthier seasons, and though his ball handling might not get much better, his abilities without the ball or standing with the ball make him dangerous. He is a solid player, one of the few on this team.

Kirk Hinrich. The FORMER Best White American Point Guard in the NBA, Will Soon be Traded :(

by piccolomair on Mar 19, 2008 12:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I understand and respect what you're sayin piccolo

But I've said before that Deng is a good player but nothing about him says great. And this 4th quarter thing....that's between the ears. I don't know that at this point you can develop that. You either have balls or you don't. I know 8th graders with more mental toughness than Deng.

I remember when Kobe was an 18 yr old rookie and he put up 3 consecutive air balls in the playoffs against Utah when he had guys like Shaq and Van Exel on his team to take and make shots down the stretch. You knew right then and there that this young man had balls of steele!! Today he is KOBE!! But back then he was just an athletic young player with upside....and a competitive streak that rivaled that of all time greats!

And let's not forget Kobe was no better coming out of high school than Deng (Deng was #2 overall behind Mr. LeBron James and Kobe was rated a hair above Mr. Ronnie Fields of Chicago and Mr. Lester Earl or Louisiana) and that Kobe was picked #13. If anyone had any idea he'd be as good as he is now then of course he goes before Iverson in that draft or #2 at worst.

As for those guys I named, those are only people at the small forward position I'd rather have. And I left out the obvious like Carmelo, LeBron, T-Mac and Kobe (who could both play the 3 if they so chose to). The experts were dead wrong. Deng may not even be a top 5 SMALL FORWARD in the East.

#1 is without a doubt LeBron

Take the rest in any order you choose, but it's hard to argue that Deng is better than any of the guys listed below.

-Caron Butler
-Tayshaun Prince (let me here ANY of you argue that he can't give you whatever Deng does)
-Rashard Lewis (havin' a terrible season and is still givin' u what Deng did in his BEST year which was last year by most accounts...though LEWIS is VASTLY overpaid)
-Josh Smith (I'll take him ANY DAY over Deng)
-Shawn Marion (at least for now)

Now this doesn't mean Deng is terrible. He is just terribly overvalued. Each of these guys would give us more than Deng...with the exception of maybe Prince. No doubt part of his success is due to the team he is on. But he is FAR tougher in the mind than Deng will ever be. He'd show up in the 4th quarter on a regular basis and that counts for something (Deng shows up from time to time but disappears far more often).

by lexdiamonds0730 on Mar 19, 2008 7:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Now of course if we start winning.....

... then this can all change. Winning and Deng comes up big while winning then EVERYTHING changes. And I ain't talkin' about winning 49 games. Who cares about that. I'm talkin' about getting deep into the playoffs and winning the Eastern Conference and contending for titles!!! To hell with simply winning enough games to be respectable. THIS IS CHICAGO and we should accept nothing less than shooting for the highest levels of success and 49 games and the second round ain't that.

Still doesn't make him a star though (I personally think Gordon would be considered a star before Deng...maybe not as a Bull unfortunately but we'll hear from him in the future), but then some of this Deng talk would make sense. Winners don't become irrelevant. Deng is an afterthought in the league right now.

by lexdiamonds0730 on Mar 19, 2008 7:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You were doing ok

until you threw Walker, Maguette and Artest in there. And JR Smith? You forgot Noce :-)

Seriously, Deng isn't the reason the Bulls aren't playing well this year, although the 4th quarter stuff is big. NBA games seldom start until the 4th, so playing your best when the opponent is coasting doesn't impress. But, you can grow in that area; I'll personally attest to that. Just need a breakout. Pippen was the worst early on, and could easily be intimidated out of his game. (One of my top 5 MJ memories: going nose to nose with McDaniel to make him stop scaring Scottie). He also made horrificly bad choices using the clock and would dribble us into desperation shots and TO's. But, he did become one of the toughest SOB's in the game.

If you're talking about ability to go one on one and put up 30+, he isn't that. I'm glad and think he's a better player because that doesn't seem to enter his mind. But, when the game dictates that it's time for you to show up, and you don't want it, that's not humility; that's as selfish as ballhogging.

But trashing Deng is kind of a silly thing when the team is soooooo disfunctional, don'tcha think?

by California Al on Mar 19, 2008 8:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What does Deng do that....

...Artest, Maggette and Walker don't or didn't at some point? And J.R. Smith has more upside than Deng. How can anyone deny that he has superstar potential? But on the other hand, he has the mind of a 4th grader at times. But the physical tools are undeniable and he is 22 as well. If he ever learns to "think" the game, he will be awesome!!!

I always trash Deng, but it's not because I'm asking him to score 30+ ppg. It's because several fellow Bulls fans seem to think he can be "The Man". But I wouldn't take the time to trash him if I didn't like him and expect more from him. Contrary to popular belief, I think Deng is a good player and I would like to keep him in Chicago. But this "future star" label is ridiculous and the notion that we should build around him is ridiculous.

Now if we draft, trade for or somehow sign a TRUE superstar or two, then Deng could possibly develop into the best 3rd option in the league on a good team, without dispute!! But this thinking that he will be some great player is just beyond me.

by lexdiamonds0730 on Mar 19, 2008 3:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

So, if I understand

you'd trade him straight up for any of those 4 at the same age straight up?

by California Al on Mar 19, 2008 7:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

It's easy to sit here now and say....

... that Artest is crazy, the Maggette never truly became a star and to say anything about Antoine Walker at this point.

But when they were all 22 or 23 yrs old I would no doubt have traded straight up for either of them. Maybe I'm a bit biased because I know both Corey Maggette and Antoine Walker, but either would have thrived in Chicago since neither is the lazy knucklehead that Eddy Curry is. And if we don't move Artest a few years back then there would never have been a need for Deng anyway.

As for J.R. Smith, we had him and traded him. I wouldn't have moved him. I've always liked what he can bring to the table. His highs are SO much higher than Deng's and his lows aren't as pronounced as Deng's lows. Plus I'm of the opinion that we have too many nice guys on this current team. We need an a$$hole or two with serious talent and mental toughness to shake up this bunch we have now. Gooden and Hughes are starts, but neither has ever been potentially great. I can see Gooden as an 18 and 10 guy at some point. Hughes, I don't know how much better or consistent he's going to get than he already is...and he's injury prone (something I'm also beginning to worry about with Deng). But we need a mentally tough guy who also happens to be our best player.

by lexdiamonds0730 on Mar 19, 2008 8:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Completely agree on the last statement

But I don't equate competitiveness with a**holeness. The former added to talent = greatness; the latter is usually to the detriment of the team (see Starbury).

by California Al on Mar 19, 2008 8:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Starbury (Starbummy) is the WORST example!!!

I can't say enough bad things about Marbury. I absolutely despise that man these days. But I went a bit too far in saying I want an a$$hole with talent. Basically what I was saying is that I don't care if guys aren't choir boys. We thought we had a team full of them and the best they can do is overachieve. It's hard to overachieve all season long in the NBA. In the NBA, more often than not talent wins out. Give me some talented guys who may not be the "angels" that guys like Hinrich and Deng are, but are far more talented. I don't really care what kind of guys they are as long as I don't read about them in the police blotter...and as long as they don't resemble Stephon Starbummy!!!! Marbury is arguable the greatest disappointment in the history of the league!!!

by lexdiamonds0730 on Mar 19, 2008 11:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Agreed.

When has Deng ever willed the Bulls to victory? All of these other guys you mention come up huge down the stretch, but from Deng, all we see is him getting fouled, splitting free throws, missing crucial jumpers, getting his hands on rebounds just to turn them over.

The only Bull who has ever willed his team to victory out of this bunch is Gordon, and for him, it's been a while.

Deng needs to play like he's desperate to prove himself. Not like he's saving his energy.

"Duhon, don't make that garbage-time jumper... Save it for the next game!"

by bullhockey on Mar 19, 2008 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

somehow i am not conforted by the win....

...boylan will now think his random lineups rock

by bullsfaninbigapple on Mar 18, 2008 9:57 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

You are correct

I WOULD say that Boylan is just searching for what works....
But he's found line-ups that do work and gone away from them like he never saw them.

He's just an idiot.
Period.

Spring training....FINALLY!!

by Bluelou on Mar 18, 2008 10:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

These games seem more pleasant when you

expect the worst!

Boylan figured out how to get the 4 guards at least 30 minutes each and not play Deng and Gooden over 40 - but since it meant long stretches of the 4 guard lineup and short minutes for Joakim and Tyrus I'm not really on board with that plan.

Nice job by the guys, though. As frustrating as this season is, and as upset as I get with the team as a whole, I still like most of the guys and would like to see them play well. Plus, New Jersey sucks.

Maybe I'll take up hockey.

by wjb1492 on Mar 18, 2008 9:58 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Worst lineups of the season and they still won

Odd game

by Illini15 on Mar 18, 2008 10:00 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

also played some of the best, though

Baby Bulls II?

by bullshooter on Mar 18, 2008 10:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I've been really surprised by Gooden

guy's got a lot more skills - passing, dribbling, posting - than I thought. He might not be an all-star, but he's the best pf we've had since Brand. Granted, that's low praise...but we certainly pantsed the Cavs! And we never have to watch Duhon again!

by Freethefro on Mar 18, 2008 10:01 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I heard them say

that Gooden has 4 DD's in a row as of late...
Not bad I guess...
COMPLETELY better than the corpse ever was...

Spring training....FINALLY!!

by Bluelou on Mar 18, 2008 10:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He's a more than serviceable big...

Who is still relatively young.

A definite piece that the Bulls would be stupid to let walk for nothing.

by Khalid El-Amin on Mar 18, 2008 10:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He's post limited

He'll pretty much only post up on the left side low block. On the right side it's really ugly.

I think he needs to improve footwork to better position himself for dunk finishes rather than falling high backboard jump hook finishes.

He looks awkward trying to finish with one hand. I think he probably has the same issue at Tyson Chandler. His hands just aren't big enough to control the ball with one.

The Kids Must Stay In The Picture!!!

by NBA Observer on Mar 19, 2008 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Didn't get to see the game

but I noticed on ESPNs box score that between Hinrich, Gordon, and Hughes, there were 0 free throw attempts.
Do we really think that sitting on the perimeter and shooting all day is going to consistently win games?

by darksmokepuncher on Mar 18, 2008 10:03 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

that's rare

so we can live with that for at least one game...the other good thing was that everyone was + tonight except for Noce. That's not rare.

by NormVanBeer on Mar 18, 2008 10:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That is a DAMNING statistic!!!!!

To win consistently you've got to get to the line....unless of course you're having one of those games where you're shooting 65% from the three point line like we tend to have and look great when doing so.

But, like u say, sitting on the perimeter and shooting all day won't get it done often enough. Agreed 1,000,000%

by lexdiamonds0730 on Mar 18, 2008 10:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

could everybody relax

nobody thinks the bulls are good or going to the playoffs. NJ just sucks worse on the road.

Baby Bulls II?

by bullshooter on Mar 18, 2008 10:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree...

At this point it's really only about evaluating what we have going forward.

by Khalid El-Amin on Mar 18, 2008 10:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Milwaukee is in full tank mode

they lost to Miami at home tonight. I don't think the bulls will fall past them in the standings

Baby Bulls II?

by bullshooter on Mar 18, 2008 10:13 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Get a seasoned big man back up

Ya, you have to shoot from there, you have no power in the paint.
U guys better get used to Hughes. 60 mill contract, the Bulls took a chance, good one in my opinion. They are going to play him like Washington, not the point, like the last two years at Cleveland (though he did help them get to the finals). You don't pick up a 15 million dollar player for 6 weeks?? Let him get a few months, get a coach and see what happens the first 25 games of next year. Maybe we will get lucky and get Arenas, plus a sold back up center until Noah matures. Good, but just outsmarted by most players. Get to .500 first, get some better players, don't whine about one game on a season that's long over. You think if we get in the playoffs we are getting past Boston?

by Homegrown on Mar 18, 2008 10:17 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

One overlooked aspect to this game,

(and I don't think this has been mentioned yet) is the fact that last week Jefferson was talking some serioius smack about the Bulls. I don't have the link at the moment, but someone asked him about upcoming games and he dismissed the Bulls immediately. He said something like, "Have you seen the way Kirk Hirich, Luol Deng and Ben Gordon are playing these days? Are you telling me that we might get beat by them? Come on."

I hate you and your mousy voice, RJ. You're not nearly as good as you think you are.

"Duhon, don't make that garbage-time jumper... Save it for the next game!"

by bullhockey on Mar 19, 2008 9:58 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Gail Fisher

did an interview on the post game show last night and he pretty much dissed the team then too.

by sue369 on Mar 19, 2008 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That's just silly.

He seems intent on cementing his status as a B-List celebrity. Who actually disses the other team these days? It's probably a pretty short list. Phil Jackson can make fun of Mark Cuban and the entire Mavs organization for getting rid of Devin Harris to bring in Kidd, but in that case, it actually matters, because there's actually something at stake--both the Lakers and Mavs are contenders, and part of Jackson's M.O. is getting under the skin of opponents.

But in this case none of it matters, because both teams are the ultimate also-rans. It's like seeing Rashad McCants diss the Miami Heat. Or like Mike Miller going off about how bad the Clippers are. Makes no sense whatsoever.

"Duhon, don't make that garbage-time jumper... Save it for the next game!"

by bullhockey on Mar 19, 2008 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

you're close, but not quite

here is the actual quote:

Nets forward Richard Jefferson offered some bulletin-board material for the Bulls to the Newark (N.J.) Star-Ledger: "If you look at Ben Gordon, Luol [Deng] and Kirk Hinrich and how they've played the last 20 games, you're going to tell me they're due for a streak? C'mon."

http://chicagosports.chicagotribune.com/sports/basketball/bulls/cs-080310-jim-boylan-chicago-bulls,1 ,7770180.story

by NormVanBeer on Mar 19, 2008 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs