The Ball Dont Lie
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Over the last few weeks I have been going over EVERY move John Paxson has done has a GM of the Chicago Bulls. Since it is officially ten years I thought it be fitting to give Paxxson a review.
In this review, EVERY move is detailed. It has off-season/draft analysis. I hope you enjoy. I must admit it is EXTREMELY LONG. But worth the read.
John Paxon's Tenure with the Chicago Bulls.
By: The Ball Don't Lie
_________________________________________
Here is the Bulls roster John Paxson acquired(2002-03):
Head Coach: Bill Cartwright
PG: Jay Williams, Jamal Crawford, Rick Brunson
SG: Trenton Hassel, Fred Hoiberg
SF: Jalen Rose, Eddie Robinson, Roger Mason Jr.
PF: Marcus Fizer, Donyell Marshell, Lonny Baxter
C: Eddy Curry, Tyson Chandler, Corie Blount, Dalibor Bagaric
Jalen Rose - 12 million
Eddie Robinson - 5.6 million
Donyell Marshall - 4.1 million
Tyson Chandler - 3.5 million
Jay Williams - 3.4 million
Marcus Fizer - 2.9 million
Eddy Curry - 2.8 million
Jamal Crawford - 2 million
Corie Blount - 1.4 million
Fred Hoiberg - 1.4 million
Dalibor Bagaric - 830k
Rick Brunson - 637k
Trenton Hassell - 512k
Lonny Baxter - 349k
Roger Mason Jr - 349k
Team salary = Approx. 44 million
2002-03 Salary cap = 40.2 million
Bulls cap = Approx. (-4) million
Jerry Krause built that team. The idea was to build around the two 7 footers in Chandler and Curry. He even traded rookie of the year Elton Brand to get Chandler.
The project did not work right away. Both were fresh out of high school and had no idea what being a professional athlete was all about. Tyson was too skinny, pushed around his first year. Curry was out of shape, bad work ethic.
Krause drafted Jay Williams with the 2nd overall pick in 2002 to be the future at point guard. He was suppose to be the final young piece to this rebuilding team.
But the Bulls finished 30-54 in 2002-03. Their young players made little progression. The team seemed to be heading backwards. Leading to the resignation of Bulls GM Jerry Krause.
April 15, 2003 - John Paxson is named GM of the Chicago Bulls
_________________________________
2003 Off-Season
June 19, 2003 - One week before the draft, point guard Jay Williams crashes motorcycle. Injuries end his basketball career.
Analysis:
Jay Williams was suppose to be the future of the Bulls. Anything the Bulls did this off-season was going to be built around Williams. Whatever plans Paxson had for the team, now had to be completely changed.
Bulls upcoming draft picks:
7th overall
36th overall
44th overall (acquired from Pho for Jake Voskuhl in 2001)
53rd overall (acquired from Mia for Sean Lampley in 2001)
June 26, 2003 - Bulls draft:
Kirk Hinrich 7th overall
Mario Austin 36th overall
Matt Bonner 44th ovreall
Tommy Smith 53rd overall
Other point guards available to the Bulls:
TJ Ford - Drafted 8th by Milwaukee
Marcus Banks - Drafted 13th by Memphis
Luke Ridnour - Drafted 14th by Seattle
Troy Bell - Drafted 16th by Boston
Steve Blake - Drafted 38th by Washington
Mo Williams - Drafted 47th by Utah
Draft analysis:
Bulls needed to replace Jay Williams at point guard. Which is why Kirk Hinrich was drafted. Bulls reportedly were targeting Dwyane Wade in the draft. But he was drafted 5th overall by the Miami Heat. 2 picks before the Bulls. Bulls felt Hinrich was the best player available. They also wanted to draft a player from a winning program.
Draft Grade: B
_____________________________________
Rest of off-season:
Bulls free agents: Fred Hoiberg, Corie Blount, Rick Brunson (no particular order)
Bulls cap room = 2 million.
June 27, 2003 - Bulls trade Matt Bonner to Toronto for future 2nd round pick.
July 21, 2003 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Scottie Pippen via non tax paying exception(MLE). 2yrs/10 million
August 1, 2003 - Bulls re-sign Corie Blount via Bi-Annual exception. 1yr/1.6 million
August 21, 2003 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Kendall Gill via minimum player salary exception. 1yr/1million
September 5, 2003 - Bulls buyout Dalibor Bagaric's contract for 1.6 milion.
September 29, 2003 - Bulls sign undrafted free agent Linton Johnson to the minimum. 1yr/366k
October 24, 2003 - Bulls waive Trenton Hassell's non-guaranteed contract.
_______________________________________
2003-04 Chicago Bulls opening night roster:
Head Coach: Bill Cartwright
PG: , Kirk Hinrich, Jamal Crawford
SG: Kendall Gill, Roger Mason JR, Eddie Robinson
SF: Jalen Rose, Marcus Fizer, Scottie Pippen, Linton Johnson
PF: Donyell Marshall, Lonny Baxter
C: Eddy Curry, Tyson Chandler, Corie Blount
Jalen Rose - 13.2 million
Eddie Robinson - 6.2 million
Scottie Pippen - 4.9 million
Donyell Marshall - 4.6 million
Tyson Chandler - 3.8 million
Marcus Fizer - 3.7 million
Jay Williams - 3.7 million(injured)
Eddy Curry - 3 million
Jamal Crawford - 2.5 million
Kirk Hinrich - 2 million
Corie Blount - 1.6 million
Dalibor Bagaric - 1.6 million(buyout)
Kendall Gill - 1 million (688K cap hit)
Lonny Baxter - 636k
Roger Mason Jr - 563k
Linton Johnson - 366k
Team Salary = Approx. 52 million
2003-04 Salary Cap = 43.8 million
Cap Room = Approx. (-9) million
Tax Level = 52.9 million
Off-Season Review:
It was kind of a strange start for Paxson. Their future franchise player Jay Williams ruins his career in a motorcycle accident a week before the draft. Setting the franchise back a year and completely changing whatever plans Paxson had for his first draft. Paxson decided to draft a point guard to replace Williams in Kirk Hinrich. Ideally the Bulls wanted to not have a good season, but focus on obtaining a better draft pick. Bulls let Brunson and Hoiberg walk, but kept Corie Blount for depth. Bulls added veteran leadership to a young immature team by signing free agent veterans Pippen and Gill. Main goals for 2003-04 were to develop Curry and Chandler. And begin to develop a mature attitude within the locker room moving forward.
Off-Season Grade: B
Grade up to this point: B
_____________________________________________
2003-04 Season:
November 25, 2003 - Bulls fire head coach Bill Cartwright. Name Pete Myers interim.
Why?
Bulls were 4-10 at the time of the firing. Bill Carwright overall was 51-100 with the Bulls. Team showed little improvement in his time with the Bulls, which led to his firing.
November 28, 2003 - Bulls name Scott Skiles head coach.
Why Skiles?
This Bulls team began to be known as undisciplined and immature. Skiles was known for running a strict team, and holding players accountable. Which led Paxson to hire him. The idea was for Skiles to come in and bring a more "professional" attitude and to demand a better work ethic from younger players. Specifically Eddy Curry.
It was rumored Paxson intentionally waited till after the season started to fire Cartwright, and then hire Skiles. It was also odd to some how quickly Paxson hired Skiles. Showing maybe he had Skiles picked for some time. Some speculated cause of the timing, Cartwright was a lame duck. They always planned to fire him, but wanted to wait till during the season.
But why?
It all goes back to getting a better draft pick. The Bulls could have just fired Cartwright before the season, but the Bulls wanted to have a bad year. They wanted a higher pick. The timing did not allow Skiles a training camp. Meaning he had to install his system during the season. Which is harder on the players. Usually when a coach is fired the team hires an interim to finish the year to prevent this. The interim is usually an assistant of the fired coach. The interim usually will run the same system with slight differences. Skiles and Cartwright were two totally different coaches and systems. This idea would lead to struggles on the court, leading to a better draft pick ideally.
But this of course was all speculation by reporters, not fact. Possible though, and not uncommon in professional sports.
December 2, 2003 - Bulls trade Jalen Rose, Donyell Marshall, and Lonny Baxter to Toronto for Antonio Davis, Jerome Williams, and Chris Jefferies.
Trade analysis:
The Bulls needed front court help at the tine. Chandler was having back problems. Plus Antonio Davis wanted out of Toronto. Also the idea was for Davis to be a mentor to Curry and Chandler. The Bulls were also happy to rid themselves of Rose's long contract.
December 16, 2003 - Bulls trade Roger Mason Jr. to Toronto for Rick Brunson.
Trade Analysis - Minor move. Bulls didn't use Mason. Toronto didn't use Brunson. Both teams deciding to switch players. Mason was released not too long after by Toronto. As was Brunson with the Bulls.
January 6, 2003 - Bulls waive Linton Johnson.
January 8, 2004 - Bulls sign Ronald Dupree to a 10 day contract.
January 18, 2004 - Bulls resign Ronald Dupree to a 2nd 10 day contract.
January 29, 2004 - Bulls sign Ronald Dupree for the reminder of the season
February 17, 2004 - Bulls waive Jay Williams.
Analysis:
It was clear to the Bulls William's injuries would end his career. And even if he did make a comeback he would never be the player they needed from him. Jay Williams never played another game in the NBA.
February 29, 2004 - Bulls sign Linton Johnson to a 10 day contract due to injuries to Kendall Gill and Chris Jefferies.
March 3, 2004 - Bulls waive Corie Blount.
March 5, 2004 - Bulls sign Paul Shirley to a 10 day contract due to injuries to Marcus Fizer.
March 10, 2004 - Bulls sign Linton Johnson to a 2nd 10 day contract.
March 17, 2004 - Bulls waive Rick Brunson. Sign Jannero Pargo to a 10 a day contract. Sign Paul Shirley to a 2nd 10 day contract.
March 20, 2004 - Bulls sign Linton Johnson to a prorated contract via minimum player salary exception.
March 26, 2004 - Bulls sign Paul Shirley and Jannero Pargo to prorated contracts via minimum player salary exception.
2003-04 Season Review:
Bulls finish 23-59, the 2nd worse record in the NBA. But going into the year it was all about developing Curry and Chandler. Tyson all year was battling back injuries. He was limited to playing 35 games and only starting in 8 of them. Eddy Curry started off slow but progressed as the year went along. Coach Skiles had a rough first year but was expected. The team is young and he didn't have a training camp to install his system. He ran his team on the fly. Curry did show progress under Skiles. Which was encouraging going into next year. Rookie Kirk Hinrich was solid, and helped move forward without injured guard Jay Williams. Hinrich made NBA All-Rookie First Team along with LeBron, Wade, Melo, and Bosh.
1 year grade: B
______________________________________
2004 Off-Season
Bulls draft picks:
3rd overall
32nd overall
39th overall(acquired from Tor for Matt Bonner in 2003)
June 24, 2004 - Bulls draft:
Ben Gordon 3rd overall
Jackson Vroman 32nd overall
Chris Duhon 39th overall
Notable players drafted after 3rd overall pick:
Andre Iguodala - 9th overall by Philadelphia.
Al Jefferson - 15th overall by Boston
Josh Smith - 17th overall by Milwaukee
June 24, 2004 - Bulls trade the rights to Jackson Vroman, 2005 1st round pick and cash to Phoenix for the rights to Luol Deng.
Draft/Trade analysis:
With Curry's improvement by the end of last year, the Bulls decided to focus on drafting shooters and wing players. Bulls drafted a shooter in Ben Gordon, a point guard in Chris Duhon, and traded for the rights to forward Luol Deng. The Bulls loved Luol's defensive potential in Skiles's system, who was a power forward in college. Ben Gordon was one of the best shooters in the draft, which is what attracted him to the Bulls. And the Bulls Chris Duhon could a nice back up for Kirk Hinrich right away. Also part of Paxson's plan was to draft players from winning programs. The Bulls overall team attitude in the past was poor and part of Paxson's plan to fix that was to bring in players from winning backgrounds. Gordon was from UConn which won a national title in 2004. And both Luol and Chris were from Duke. Hinrich a year before from Kansas which went to a national championship.
Draft Grade: B
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Rest of off-season:
Bulls Free Agents: Jamal Crawford, Kendall Gill, Jannero Pargo, Ronald Dupree, Linton Johnson, Paul Shirley (no particular order)
Bulls Cap Room: 3 million
June 22, 2004 - Bulls player Marcus Fizer is drafted by Charlotte Bobcats in expansion draft.
August 5, 2004 - Bulls sign(via bird rights) and trade Jamal Crawford along with Jerome Williams to the Knicks for Dikeme Mutombo, Othella Harriington, Frank Williams, and Cezary Trybanski.
Trade Analysis:
The Bulls never had Crawford in their long term plans. Skiles had a hard time coaching him, and never liked his defense, shot selection, and mainly his immaturity. They also wanted financial flexibility. And with Ben Gordon they did not have a need for Crawford anymore. Bulls could control Ben for cheaper and get near the same production Crawford gave them.
August 11, 2004 - Bulls sign internaitional free agent Andres Nocioni from Argentina via cap room. 3yrs/6million
September 8, 2004 - Bulls trade Dikeme Mutombo to Houston for Eric Piatkowski, Adrian Griffin and Mike Wilks
Trade Analysis:
Houston wanted a backup for Yao Ming. And they thought Mutombo was an ideal fit. Bulls added depth and gave up a player they had no need for. Also saved a little under a million in salary.
September 30, 2004 - Bulls sign undrafted free agent Jared Reiner via minimum player salary exception. 1yr/385k
September 30, 2004 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Jannero Pargo via minimum player salary exception. 1yr/695k
October 4, 2004 - Bulls waive Chris Jefferies.
October 6, 2004 - Bulls announce Scottie Pippen's retirement.
October 20, 2004 - Bulls waive Mike Wilks.
October 28, 2004 - Bulls waive Cezary Trybanski.
November 2, 2004 - Bulls agree to buyout the final two years of Eddie Robinson's five year contract.
Analysis:
Eddie Robinson signed a 5 year 32 million contract with the Bulls in 2001. In his time with the Bulls Robinson struggled and never met expectations. He also missed 102 games in his first three years. Paxson convinced owner Jerry Reinsdorf it was best to buy out his last two years for 10 million dollars.
2004-05 opening night roster:
Coach: Scott Skiles
PG: Kirk Hinrich, Chris Duhon, Jannero Pargo
SG: Ben Gordon, Eric Piatkowski, Frank Williams
SF: Luol Deng, Andres Nocioni, Adrian Griffin
PF: Antonio Davis, Othella Harrington
C: Eddy Curry, Tyson Chandler, Jared Reiner
Antonio Davis - 12.9 million
Scottie Pippen - 5.4 million (retired)
Eddie Robinson - 5 million (buyout)
Tyson Chandler - 4.8 million
Eddy Curry - 3.8 million
Ben Gordon - 3.3 million
Othella Harrington - 3.1 million
Eric Paitkowski - 2.7 million
Andres Nocioni - 2.5 million
Kirk Hinrich - 2.3 million
Luol Deng - 2.2 million
Cezary Trybanski - 1.7 million (waived)
Jay Williams 1.5 million (waived)
Frank Williams - 957k
Chris Jefferies - 899k (waived)
Adrian Griffin - 870k
Mike Wilks - 720k (waived)
Jannero Pargo - 695k
Tommy Smith - 620k
Chris Duhon - 385k
Jared Reiner - 385k
Team Salary: Approx. 57 million
Salary Cap: 43.8 million
Cap Room = Approx. (-14) million
Off-Season Analysis:
The main goal of this off-season was to get rid of the old "baggage" left over from the Krause era. Well mainly Eddie Robinson and Jamal Crawford. Crawford was easier to get rid of, he was valued by other teams cause of his ability to handle the ball and score. Robinson ended up costing the Bulls 10 million to get rid of.
The Bulls added more youth specifically to surround Curry and Chandler. Brought in a tough minded player in Nocioni, and kept a strong veteran leader in Antonio Davis. The Bulls didn't go into next season thinking playoffs, but they wanted to see their team take a step forward and at least start to be competitive. Also continue to see their young players grow. Especially with NO draft picks going into next year(traded for Luol Deng), this wasn't the season to be bad and try to obtain a good pick. They had to compete and win as much as the could. This upcoming season was key for Curry and Chandler, cause both were going into contract years. This was the last chance for them to show the NBA they could play at this level consistently.
Off-Season Side Note: It was confirmed the Bulls were 3 teams Kobe seriously considered joining. Kobe a free agent this summer said it was down to three teams, Lakers, Clippers, and the Bulls. Bulls worked hard to work a sign and trade with LAL but Kobe decided LAL was best for him.
Off-Season Grade: B
Overall Grade: B
________________________________________
2004-05 Season
January 6, 2005 - Bulls waive Tommy Smith.
April 18th, 2005 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Lawrence Faunderburke to a prorated contract via minimum player salary exception due to injuries to Luol Deng.
Bulls finish season 47-35. 2nd in Central Division behind Detroit. 4th in the Eastern Conference. First round match up with 5th seed Washington Wizards.
Game 1: Bulls 103 Wizards 94
Game 2: Bulls 113 Wizards 103
Game 3: Bulls 99 Wizards 117
Game 4: Bulls 99 Wizards 106
Game 5: Bulls 110 Wizards 112
Game 6: Bulls 91 Wizards 94
Washington wins series 4-2
2004-05 Season Review:
Going into the year Bulls had low expectations, mainly focused on player development. Year started off no surprise with the Bulls going 0-9. Bulls looked to be headed to another basement year. But Skiles made a change to the line up, asking Gordon/Chandler to come off the bench and have Duhon/Deng start. The change worked beautifully as the Bulls finished the year 47-26. But 13 games before the playoffs Eddy Curry was hospitalized for an irregular heart beat. Which would cause him to miss the playoffs. Also Luol Deng would miss the playoffs with a tear in his right wrist. Despite all that Bulls fought Washington tough but fell short in 6 games. Bulls won the first two games but the series changed when it went to Washington. Washington easily won game 3 and 4, and Arenas hit a game winner in game 5. Bulls then lost a tough game 6. Despite losing the series the Bulls were encouraged. They went into the year expecting to be in the bottom half, but ended up in the top 10. The play of Luol and Gordon was also great. Both made All Rookie First Team, and Gordon won 6th man of the year. He was 2nd in rookie of the year behind college teammate Emeka Okafor. Chandler was great off the bench having his best year yet. His defensive presence was perfect for Skiles system, and was a great compliment to Eddy Curry. Curry played well before the heart problems, showing he could score in the post. Shaq even called him the "Baby Shaq". Hinrich also improved on his rookie year.
2 year review:
The Bulls overachieved in Paxson's 2nd year, but the Bulls weren't complaining. Skiles has developed a good structure for his young players. Chandler had his best year, and really all the young players played well under Skiles. Even Eddy Curry was starting to look like the guy Jerry Krause drafted. But the heart problems raised an issue, especially cause Curry is a restricted free agent this off-season. Paxson has done a great job up to this point rebuilding this team out of misery, but how he handles the Eddy Curry situation this off-season will be critical for this team to move forward.
2 year Grade: A-
_____________________________________
2005 Off-Season:
Bulls Draft Picks: NONE
Why?
They would have had the 21st pick but it was traded to Phoenix for Luol Deng last off-season. Which Phoenix used to draft Nate Robinson, but then traded him to New York.
They would have had the 51st pick but it was traded to Houston back in 2000, for Bryce Drew. Which Houston traded to to Utah. The pick was used to draft Robert Whaley.
Bulls free agents: Chris Duhon, Tyson Chandler, Eddy Curry, Othella Harrington, Jannero Pargo, Frank Williams, Adrian Griffin, Jared Reiner (no particular order)
Bulls cap room: 11 million
August 9, 2005 - Bulls sign undrafted free agent Eddie Basden via minimum player salary exception. 1yr/400k
August 16, 2005 - Bulls resign Chris Duhon via cap room. 3yrs/9million
August 25, 2005 - Bulls resign Othella Harrington via bird rights. 1yr/3.5million
September 1, 2005 - Bulls resign Tyson Chandler via bird rights. 6yrs/64million
Analysis:
Tyson had his best year in the NBA last year. Even though it was off the bench, Chandler's impact on the team was one of a starter. When he was in the game the defense was at its best. He also complimented the offensive Eddy Curry really well. The Bulls eventually planned on starting Chandler, and believed he would develop into one of the top centers in the NBA. The Bulls paid on production and with the hopes he is not done developing.
September 3, 2005 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Malik Allen via non tax paying exception. 2yrs/3million
September 23, 2005 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Darius Songaila via non tax paying exception. 1yr/2.2 million
October 5, 2005 - Bulls sign(via bird rights) and trade Eddy Curry along with Antonio Davis, and 2007 1st round pick to New York for Mike Sweetney, Tim Thomas, Jermaine Jackson, 2006 1st round pick, 2007 1st round pick, 2007 2nd round pick, and 2009 2nd round pick.
Trade Analysis:
The Eddy Curry heart problem dominated the off-season. It started when ownership requested Curry take a DNA test, recommended by Barry Maron a world renewed specialist in hypertonic cardiomyopathy. The test would determine whether he has a congenital heart condition. The Bulls even offered 400k for 50 years if he failed the test seeing how the test could ruin his basketball career. Curry refused and was not required to take the test legally. The Bulls decided not to give Curry an extension without taking the test. Instead, agreed to sign and trade him to New York. In the deal they gave up a 1st round pick, but received two first round picks also in the deal. Along with two 2nd rounders.
A Brief Look Into the Future:
Eddy Curry struggled in his 1st year with NY. But in his 2nd year Curry thrived averaging 19.6 ppg. But after that year Curry's weight problems grew, and he slowly faded out of a job. The heart was never an issue for him since the trade though.
October 18, 2005 - Bulls sign Jannero Pargo via mid level exception. 1yr/895k
October 18, 2005 - Bulls waive Jermaine Jackson's non guaranteed contract.
2005-06 Opening Night Roster:
PG: Kirk Hinrich, Chris Duhon, Jannero Pargo
SG: Ben Gordon, Eric Piatkowski
SF: Luol Deng, Andres Nocioni, TIm Thomas, Eddie Basden
PF: Michael Sweetney, Darius Songaila
C: Tyson Chandler, Othella Harrington
Tim Thomas - 13.9 million
Tyson Chandler - 9 million
Eddie Robinson - 5.4 million (buyout)
Ben Gordon - 3.6 million
Othella Harrington - 3.5 million
Eric Piatkowski - 3 million
Chris Duhon - 2.8 million
Andres Nocioni - 2.7 million
Kirk Hinrich - 2.5 million
Luol Deng - 2.4 million
Darius Songaila - 2 million
Michael Sweetney - 2.1 million
Malik Allen - 1.6 million
Janner Pargo - 895k
Eddie Badsen 398k
Off-Season Analysis:
The Eddy Curry heart problem defined and dominated this off-season. Eddy Curry offensively was really good, but defensively he drove coach Skiles crazy with his rim protection. He also struggled getting rebounds. Even without the heart problem, the Bulls might have parted ways with Curry. Especially with the Chandler extension. They also might have been able to get more than what they did in the trade. But either it was clear Curry did not fit into Skiles defensive system, nor was he a fan of his work ethic. Not taking the DNA test was just the clincher. The Bulls decided to keep Chandler, coming off his best season. They gave Tyson a long term deal at 6 years 64 million, also the last piece of the Krause era.
But with losing Curry the Bulls knew their team was going to take a step backwards. Curry could score, and helped that team win some of those 47 games last year. The Bulls also knew they would have cap room next year with Tim Thomas coming off along with Eddie Robinson's buyout cap hit and others. They also knew they received two first rounders from the Curry deal. So the pieces were there to improve this team next year. But this year, might have to be a "wash". And more of a focus on player development with Chandler, Hinrich, Gordon, and Deng.
Off-Season Grade: B+
Overall Grade: A-
_________________________________
2005-06 Season:
January 6, 2006 - Bulls sign Randy Holcombe to a 10 day contract.
January 18, 2006 - Bulls sign Stephen Graham to a 10 day contract.
January 21, 2006 - Bulls assign Eddie Basden to D-League
January 28, 2006 - Bulls sign James Thomas to a 10 day contract.
February 6, 2006 - Bulls sign Jame Thomas to another 10 day contract.
March 1, 2006 - Bulls waive Tim Thomas.
March 6, 2006 - Bulls sign Luke Schenscher to a 10 day contract.
March 14, 2006 - Bulls recall Eddie Basden from D-League.
March 15, 2006 - Bulls sign Luke Schenscher to another 10 day contract.
March 23, 2006 - Bulls sign Randy Livingston to a 10 day contract.
April 2, 2006 - Bulls sign Randy Livingston to another 10 day contract.
April 12, 2006 - Bulls sign Randy Livingston to a prorated contract via minimum player salary exception.
Bulls finish 41-41tied for 3rd in the Central, and 7th in the East. First round match up the Miami Heat.
Game 1: Bulls 106 Miami 111
Game 2: Bulls 108 Heat 115
Game 3: Bulls 109 Heat 90
Game 4: Bulls 93 Heat 87
Game 5: Bulls 78 Heat 92
Game 6: Bulls 96 Heat 113
Miami wins series 4-2
2005-06 Review/3 year review:
When the year started the Bulls were more focused on player development. The core future was looking to be Hinirch, Gordon, Deng, Chandler. But Chandler took a step back in 05-06. His defense and rebounding were slightly down from the year before. Which was not encouraging after giving him a long term extension. There was a fear amongst fans/team that Chandler had peaked. But while Chandler struggled, Deng and Gordon improved overall. Hinrich remained solid and consistent. The Bulls loss to Miami in 6 who went on to win it all that year, but they fought them tough through the first four games. Miami just showed they were better in the last two. Something that also showed this year was the inability to get low post scoring. The Bulls became jump shooters without Curry, which hurt their half court offense. Something that needed to be addressed.
After 3 years, the Bulls made the playoffs twice. Despite two MAJOR injuries to two key players(Jay Williams, Eddy Curry). Although record wise they took a step down from the previous year, it was expected with the loss of Eddy Curry. But next year was the year. Why? Well they established their coach and style. The Bulls will have cap room and the 2nd overall pick in the upcoming draft. Along with another potential lottery pick going into 2007. Their young core was going into their prime years, this was the chance for the Bulls to take the next step. This off-season could make or break what Paxson has begun to built, and was going to be the key off-season so far in the Paxson era.
3 Year Grade: A-
_______________________________________
2006 Off-Season:
Bulls draft picks:
2nd overall(Acquired in the Eddy Curry deal with New York)
16th overall
The Bulls would have had the 46th pick also, but traded it to Houston for Bryce Drew in 2000. Houston traded it to Utah who used the pick to draft Dee Brown.
June 28th, 2006 - Bulls draft
LaMarcus Aldridge 2nd overall
Rodney Carney 16th overall.
June 28, 2006 - Bulls trade the rights to LaMarcus Aldridge to Portland for the rights to Tyrus Thomas along with Victor Khryapa.
June 28, 2006 - Bulls trade the rights to Rodney Carney, 2007 2nd round pick, and cash to Philadelphia for the rights to Thabo Sefolosha.
Draft/Trade Analysis:
Tyrus Thomas vs LaMarcus Aldridge
At the time of the draft Aldridge was considered "more ready" for the NBA than Tyrus. Aldridge was a real good offensive player with good post moves. Defensively he was capable but not strong. But overall a good basketball player with a good understanding of the game.
Tyrus was an athletic freak out of LSU. Really good on the defensive end but a work in progress on the offensive end. The potential was there cause of his athleticism. Or so people thought at the time. Tyrus though showed flashes of greatness at LSU, and with the right coaching and work ethic could grow to be a star.
But the move did not make sense to some, including me. Bulls lacked offense. Specifically in the front court. Aldridge was the better offensively player at the time. But the Bulls took a chance on Tyrus's potential. They fell in love with his athleticism. And were hoping he could grow into the PF the team lacked. He did bring athleticism to a team that lacked it. But could he grow into a basketball player? The Bulls also obtained Khryapa in the trade. A player they felt could be a role player in the future.
The Bulls also feel in love with another player from that draft, Thabo Sefolosha. It was rumored during the draft the Bulls were heavily targeting Thabo. But he wasn't worth the 2nd pick, nor was he likely to fall 16th. Philadelphia ended up drafting Thabo 13th, but the Bulls acted quickly and were able to work out a trade with Philadelphia.
Draft Grade: D
_______________________________
Rest of Off-Season:
Bulls free agents: Eric Piatkowski, Darius Songalia, Jannero Pargo, Randy Livingston (In no particular order)
Bulls Cap Room: 21 million
2006 Top free agents(age)(last year's stats):
Sam Cassell, 36 - 17.2ppg / 6.3apg
Mike James, 30 - 20.3ppg / 5.8apg
Bonzi Wells, 29 - 13.6ppg / 7.7rpg
Ben Wallace, 32 - 7.3ppg / 11.3rpg
Drew Gooden, 25 - 10.7ppg / 8.4rpg
Al Harrington, 25 - 18.6 ppg / 6.9rpg
Jason Terry, 28 - 17.1 ppg / 41% from 3.
Peja Stojakovic, 28 - 18.2ppg / 40% from 3
July 6, 2006 - Bulls waive Othella Harrington's non guaranteed contract.
July 13, 2006 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Ben Wallace via cap room.
4yrs/60 million
July 14, 2006 - Bulls trade Tyson Chandler to New Orleans/Oklahoma City Hornets for PJ Brown and JR Smith.
Signing/Trade Analysis:
The Bulls decided to move on from Tyson and bring in the veteran, playoff tested, and champion Ben Wallace. The idea was for Ben to be the backbone of the Bulls defense, and to bring in the veteran leadership to a young locker room. The Bulls were built similarly like Detroit, so the Bulls figured it would be a perfect fit. The Bulls also wanted to weaken a team they likely will have to beat to get to the finals in Detroit. Detroit did offer Ben 4yrs/48 million, but the Bulls offered 12 million more an offer Ben could not refuse.
The Bulls liked Tyson but were disappointed in his previous year. The Bulls knew with their younger players rookie contracts ending in the next 2 years, cap room wasn't going to be available to them in the upcoming years. This had to be the year the Bulls make a splash. They saw an opportunity to strengthen their team and weaken another East contending team and acted on it. Also in the deal they obtained PJ Brown, a player they hoped could mentor Tyrus and start while Tyrus grows.
July 20, 2006 - Bulls trade JR Smith to Denver for Howard Eisley, and two 2007 second round picks.
Trade Analysis: JR was very immature at the time. 2 years removed from high school. Right away JR was on Skiles's and management's bad side. The Bulls decided they did not want JR Smith in their locker room.
July 31, 2006 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Adrian Griffin via cap room.
3yrs/4.7million
August 19, 2006 - Bulls trade Eddie Basden to Cleveland for Martynas Andriuskevicius.
Bulls Opening Night Roster:
PG: Kirk Hinrich, Chris Duhon
SG: Ben Gordon, Thabo Sefolosha
SF: Luol Deng, Adrian Griffin
PF: PJ Brown, Andrea Nocioni, Tyrus Thomas
C: Ben Wallace, Mike Sweetney, Martynas Andriuskevicius
Ben Wallace - 16 million
PJ Brown - 8.5 million
Andres Nocioni - 3.9 million
Ben Gordon - 3.8 million
Tyrus Thomas - 3.2 million
Kirk Hinrich - 3.1 million
Chris Duhon - 3 million
Michael Sweetney - 2.6 million
Luol Deng - 2.6 million
Malik Allen - 1.8 million
Thabo Sefolosha - 1.6 million
Adrian Griffin - 1.4 million
Victor Khryapa - 1.1 million
Martynas Andriuskevicius - 664k
Bulls salary = 54 million
Cap Room = (-1) million
Off Season Review:
By far Paxson's busiest off-season and most crucial. Drafting Tyrus was a risk. The Bulls are banking on potential. But worse of all they let a player go who was more of a fit for what their team needed in Aldridge. The Bulls than made a splash in free agency and signed Wallace and traded Tyson.
Wallace was the better player at the time, but also was 32 and in his declining years. Tyson was 24 and entering his prime. If it wasn't for Tyson struggling last year, maybe the Bulls keep him. But he did. The Bulls figured Wallace can help this team now, while Tyson was still learning the NBA game. But it was another risk on the Bulls part.
At the end of the day how the Bulls play this year will determine if the Bulls made the right choice. Will this be the year they get out the 1st round? And if they do can they challenge for a ring?
Off-Season Grade: D+
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2006-07 Season:
November 2, 2006 - Bulls extend Kirk Hinrich through 2012 via bird rights.
4yrs/48million
Analysis:
Kirk Hinrich's first 3 years in the NBA were good. He ran the team effectively while shooting at a decent rate. His defense and toughness was admired by coach Skiles and most fans. Also Hinrich's play rose in the playoffs the past 2 years. Averaging 20 points and a near 7 assist in the postseason. Kirk did everything the Bulls needed from him his first 3 years, and the Bulls saw no reason he can't run the team the next 4 years.
December 11, 2006 - Bulls assign Martynas Andriuskevicius to the D-League.
The Bulls finish 49-33. 3rd in the Central, 4th in the East. First round match up with defending champions Miami Heat.
Game 1: Bulls 96 Heat 91
Game 2: Bulls 107 Heat 89
Game 3: Bulls 92 Heat 79
Game 4: Bulls 92 Heat 79
Bulls win series 4-0
2nd round match up with Detroit Pistons.
Game 1: Bulls 69 Pistons 95
Game 2: Bulls 87 Pistons 108
Game 3: Bulls 74 Pistons 81
Game 4: Bulls 102 Pistons 87
Game 5: Bulls 108 Pistons 92
Game 6: Bulls 85 Pistons 95
Detroit wins series 4-2
2006/07 Season Review/4 year review:
The Bulls did take a step forward. Advancing to the 2nd round for the 1st time since the MJ years. But the Bulls looked out matched at times against Detroit, especially in the first 3 games. The Bulls played better in game 4 and 5. And the Bulls did lead game 6 going into the half, but Detroit turned up their defense and eliminated the Bulls.
Wallace was solid in year 1. The defense improved with Wallace going from allowing 97ppg to 92ppg. Bulls ranked 6th in points allowed, and 2nd in FG%. But one thing was for sure Wallace was slowly declining. And he wasn't getting any better at 32. While Tyson had a good year, way better than his last year. Tyson played well enough to question if the Bulls made the right decision.
Gordon, Hinrich, and Deng had good years. Gordon continued to be one the better scorers in the NBA on or off the bench. Hinrich had a good regular season, but did struggle shooting in the playoffs. And Luol had a break out year. Mainly in the post season against Miami. Luol averaged 26ppg and 9rpg against Miami. And dominated the series. Luol averaged a little under 20 against Detroit. Luol left a lot of people wondering how good can this guy be?
Tyrus struggled in his first year. He didn't get on the court much averaging 13mpg. When Tyrus was strong it was with his help side defense. His ability to protect the rim was encouraging. But offensively Tyrus needed a lot of work. He didn't really have a true position in the NBA. He lacked the strength, post moves, and fundamentals to be an offensive PF at this point. But lacked the ball handling to even consider him at SF. Coach Skiles questioned Tyrus's effort at times. And told Tyrus if he wanted more playing time he had to learn to run the court more, and use his athleticism in the open court. Thabo also barely played. Bulls loved his defense but wanted his shot to to improve for more playing time.
After four years, the Bulls have gained the reputation of a hard nosed defensive team. They would grind and wear you out for 48 minutes. They made the playoffs the last 3 years, and got out the first round once. But the team still struggled to score, and lacked low post presence. Some said the Bulls had to go get a low post scorer, some said they need a go to guy. Whatever the case, the Bulls knew to win a ring this team would need more. Was Tyrus going to develop into that player? Bulls don't have a lot of cap room this off-season, they will have enough to add a piece. But to make a big splash the Bulls will have to get creative.
4 year grade: B
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2007 Off-Season:
Bulls Draft Picks:
9th overall(Swapped 1st round picks with New York in a trade for Eddy Curry)
49th overall(Acquired from Denver in a trade for JR Smith)
51st overall(Acquired from Denver in a trade for JR Smith)
June 28, 2007 - Bulls draft:
Joakim Noah 9th overall
Aaron Gray 49th overall
JamesOn Curry 51st overall.
Other players that were available to them:
Spencer Hawes - 10th overall by Sacramento
Thaddeus Young - 12th overall by Philadelphia
Rodney Stuckey - 15th overall by Detroit
Wilson Chandler - 23rd overally by New York
Draft analysis:
The Bulls needed a front court scorer. Which is why a lot of people at the time thought the Bulls should have drafted Spencer Hawes. But the Bulls instead drafted Joakim Noah. Staying true to their strategy to drafting players from winning programs, Noah had won two national titles at Flordia. The Bulls feel in love with Noah's tenacity for the ball, heart, and effort. They also saw the skill and athleticism Noah possessed. And he was someone who could turn into a good NBA player. Someone who could learn under Ben Wallace and one day take the his place.
Noah was definitely the best player on the board.
Draft Grade: A
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Rest Of Off-Season:
Bulls free agents: PJ Brown, Andres Nocioni, Michael Sweetney, Malik Allen
Bulls cap room: 6 million
July 19, 2007 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Joe Smith via cap room.
July 19, 2007 - Bulls resign Andre Nocioni via bird rights. 5yrs/36million
October 3, 2007 - Bulls sign undrafted free agent Thomas Gardner via minimum player salary exception(non-guaranteed)
Bulls Opening Night Roster:
Head Coach: Scott Skiles
PG: Kirk Hinrich, Chris Duhon
SG: Ben Gordon, Adrian Griffin, Thabo Sefolosha, Thomas Gardner
SF: Luol Deng, Andres Nocioni
PF: Tyrus Thomas, Joe Smith, Victor Kryapa
C: Ben Wallace, Joakim Noah, Aaron Gray
Ben Wallace - 15.5 million
Kirk Hinrich - 11.2 million
Andres Nocioni - 8.5 million
Joe Smith - 5.2 million
Ben Gordon - 4.8 million
Tyrus Thomas - 3.5 million
Luol Deng - 3.5 million
Chris Duhon - 3.2 million
Joakim Noah - 2.1 million
Victor Khryapa - 1.9 million
Thabo Sefolosha - 1.8 million
JamesOn Curry - 427k
Aaron Gray - 427k
Thomas Gardner - 101k
Team Salary = 58 million
Cap Room = (-3) million
Off-Season Review:
The 2007 off-season was the Kobe off-season. Kobe was admittedly unhappy with the Lakers, and Kobe expressed interest in wanting to be traded. And one team on his radar was the Chicago Bulls. Kobe loved their young talent, the way they played and thought he could be the final piece to bring them over the hump. The Bulls and Lakers talked and the biggest hurdle was Luol Deng. Lakers wanted Deng, but Kobe said he would not approve a deal to the Bulls if Deng was traded reportedly. The Bulls also were hesitant to trade Deng,but those close to the Bulls said they would be willing to move Luol if it meant Kobe. But since the Lakers wanted Luol, and Kobe wanted to play with Luol any deal was unlikely. And Paxson came out and put a end to speculation:
"There's not a deal to be done. It's time to put it to rest. Today sends a messege that our guys don't have to worry about anything anymore."
-John Paxson regarding the Kobe trade talks.
The two sides could not find coming ground and NBA insiders reported the two teams never realistically came close to a deal. And realistically they were never going to.
The Bulls were also rumored in the running for Kevin Garnett and Paul Gasol. Both players would have required Deng in any deal. Bulls were not willing to deal Luol for Pau. And according to insiders never had a chance at Garnett. Minnesota wanted Al Jefferson, another big to replace KG. And they got him from Boston.
The rest of the off-season was steady. The Bulls drafted Joakim Noah. They hoped he could develop into their starting center once Wallace was gone. The Bulls were able to bring back Nocioni. They slightly overpaid to keep him but admittedly did not want to lose him. The Bulls signed veteran Joe Smith, the idea was for him to play behind Tyrus. To help Tyrus grow, and if Tyrus was not ready to start the Bulls were comfortable with Smith starting.
But really the Bulls didn't do much this off-season. It was dominated with BIG talk but with little action. With basically the same team going into next year, the only way the Bulls were taking the next step was for two things to happen:
Luol had to built on last year's playoffs and play like an all star.
Tyrus Thomas had to show DRASTIC improvement from his rookie year, and provide the Bulls with productive minutes.
Off-Season Grade: C
Overall Grade: B-
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2007-08 Season
December 8, 2007 - Bulls claim Demetris Nichols off waivers from Cleveland.
December 8, 2007 - Bulls waive Thomas Gardner's non guaranteed deal.
December 24, 2007 - Bulls fire head coach Scott Skiles. Name Pete Myers interim coach.
What happened?
The Bulls were 9-16 when Skiles was fired. But the Bulls were used to slow starts under Skiles.
2004-05: Started 0-9 - Finished 47-35
2005-06: Started 12-17 - Finished 41-41
2006-07: Started 3-9 - Finished 49-33
But this year was different. The team in the past would start slow, but they would compete. The games were close, but this year the Bulls were getting blown out. Out of the 16 loses the Bulls loss by double digits in 12 of them. And by nearly 30 in 2 of them. Coach Skiles in about 5 of the loses REFUSED to even play his starters in the 4th quarter. Saying in post game interviews he was "disgusted" and "fed up" with the level of play from his team. Which led to Skiles being fired on Christmas Eve. But the timing caused some to speculate there was a falling out between Skiles and the front office. Reports coming out saying Paxson did not like that Skiles benched the starters, and that it was an act of giving up. Which is why the team seemed to give up themselves. The Bulls hoped they could still save the season, which is why they acted so early in the season.
December 27, 2007 - Bulls name Jim Boylan interim head coach for the remainder of the season.
Analysis:
The naming of Jim Boylan as interim for the season caused more speculation that there was a definite falling out between Skiles and management and it started this year. Many waited to see if the Bulls had a head coach in mind already, similar to when they fired Bill Cartwright. When that happened it took the Bulls all but two days to hire Skiles. Causing many to believe Cartwright was a lame duck, and Skiles was going to be the head coach sooner or later.
But this time the Bulls had no plan B. Skiles was fired on the spot, with no experienced replacement in mind. The Bulls hired Boylan to interim because of his similarity to Skiles. Skiles brought Boylan to Chicago. The Bulls were still trying to get into the playoffs and they hoped Jim could still run a system similar to Skiles. Ideally they could run similar plays and defensive schemes with little confusion.
February 8, 2008 - Bulls waive Viktor Kryapa.
February 21, 2008 - Bulls trade Ben Wallace, Joe Smith, and a 2009 2nd round pick to Cleveland for Drew Gooden, Shannon Brown, Larry Hughes, and Cedric Simmons. The Bulls also traded Adrian Griffin to the Sonics in this deal.
Analysis:
The white flag trade. The Bulls were 21-32 at the time of the deal. It was obvious even if they somehow made the playoffs, they were not getting out of the first round. Jim Boylan was not able to get the team to play any better. The Bulls decided to trade Ben Wallce for slightly younger players, ending the short Wallace era. It was not all Wallace's fault the Bulls struggled this year, but the Bulls recognized Wallace was only getting older. And this might be the best time to get anything valuable for him.
April 17, 2008 - Bulls fire interim coach Jim Boylan
Analysis:
Short of helping the Bulls make the playoffs, Jim was all but gone when the year finished.
Bulls finish 33-49, 4th in the Central and 11th in East. Missing the playoffs for the first time since 2003-04.
2007-08 Review/My 5 year review:
The worse year under Paxson's watch, not counting his first year. But back then it was acceptable. Bulls had HIGH expectations this year, many picking them to get to the finals at least. But they failed to even make the playoffs. They were still a jump shooting team, but seemed to lose the fight they had the first 3 years under Skiles.
Luol Deng did not built on his great playoff performance. Deng did not have a bad year, he was actually pretty good. But Luol rose expectations of Bulls fans and management, only to not meet them. Luol struggled to score off the dribble consistently, showing to be more of a system player than a go to player. He still played great defense but just did not meet HIGH expectations.
Tyrus barley made any improvement from his rookie year. To be fair Skiles never seemed to like Tyrus, and some reported he never wanted Tyrus. But Tyrus still looked lost offensively, and he still didn't run the floor like coaches wanted. LaMarcus Aldridge was average his rookie year, but in his 2nd year he really improved. Averaging 17 ppg, he showed all the offensive skills the Bulls lacked from a front court player. Raising questions why did we trade that guy?
Thabo started off slow again, but Skiles did not play him a lot. But coach Boylan decided to start Thabo the last 3 months of the season. And Thabo played much better. He looked a lot more comfortable the more experience he got. The Bulls were encouraged with Thabo's finish to the season. One of the few positives from the Boylan era.
Hinrich had his worse year in a Bulls uniform. His did not shoot the ball bad but he did not shoot the ball well either. Hinrich was mainly inconsistent. And some started questioned has Hinrich maxed in potential? And will he start to decline from here?
Noah struggled early in his rookie year. He finished strong, and seemed to be in better shape as the year went along. Some questioned Noah's conditioning earlier in the year. Noah admittedly, "partied like a rock star" in the off-season coming off two national titles. Noah's immaturity came into question during the season, but with Noah's strong finish he was able to quiet most of the critics for the time being.
The Bulls took a BIG step back this year.. The Bulls inability to get a low post scorer and/or a go to scorer cost the Bulls this year. It became apparent the Bulls overachieved the past 3 years. They were a decent team, but lacked anywhere near enough scoring to win consistently. They won on their defense and team play in the past, but their lack of offense caught up to them. The Bulls were to easy too defend. And for some reason Skiles wore out his welcome in the Bulls locker room.
Before the year started the Bulls were considered contenders, but now don't even have a head coach and lack a clear direction moving forward. Paxson's work up to 2006 probably saved his job after this year, and I would agree with that. But Paxon's mistakes in the 2006 off-season have caught up to him this season. Tyson Chandler has thrived in NO, and Aldridge is an all star in the making. Now he has to figure out a way to fix his problem. It starts with finding a head coach, than building from there. If Paxson can't fix it in the next 2 off-seasons, or at least show a clear direction for the team moving forward… It might be time to consider a new direction in management.
Also Gordon and Deng are restricted free agents.
5 Year Grade: D+
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2008 Off-Season
June 11, 2008 - Bulls hire Vinny Del Negro to be head coach.
Analysis:
Del Negro was picked after a LONG dragged out coaching search. The Bulls were without a coach for two months before Vinny was hired. But it wasn't all the Bulls fault.
The Bulls first targeted Mike D'Antoni. The Bulls weakness was offense. Specifically in the half court. The Bulls figured D'Antoni's fast paced offense would benefit their team, with an already solid defensive structure in place. The Bulls reportedly offered 4 years 20 million to coach their team, and D'Antoni and owner Reisndorf were suppose to meet and finalize the deal. But the meeting never happened and Mike D'Antoni shocked the Bulls and agreed to coach the New York Knicks. The Knicks offered 4 million more, but the Bulls never had a chance to try and match the deal.
The Bulls then focused their attention on Doug Collins. Doug was doing broadcast for TNT at the time. Doug had coaching experience and did once coach MJ and the Bulls in the 80's. He last coached MJ and the Wizards. Doug was known as passionate coach, who demanded a lot from his players. They hoped Doug could reinstall a fire and passion in the locker room that was missing from the year before. The Bulls and Doug seemed close to a deal till one day Doug backed out. He and Reinsdorf both agreed it was not a good idea for Doug to take the job. Because of their close friendship both feared when/if the time came, it would be too hard to part ways.
The Bulls almost out of options focused their attention on Vinny Del Negro. Vinny had no coaching experience before, but he was the assistant GM for the Phoenix Suns. The Bulls were definitely thinking outside the box with this hire, they said they liked his ideas and schemes for the young players. They also agreed Vinny was a born leader and would be able to get the most out of his players.
Bulls Draft Picks:
1st overall
39th overall
June 26, 2008 - Bulls draft
Derrick Rose #1 overall
Sonny Weems 39th overall.
June 28, 2008 - Bulls trade the rights to Sonny Weems to the Nuggets, 2009 2nd round pick and 2010 2nd round pick to the Blazers. Blazers trade the rights to Omer Asik to the Chicago Bulls.
Draft/Trade analysis:
In what became Paxson's most critical off-season, Bulls get lucky and win the NBA draft lottery. The Bulls had a .17% chance at winning the #1 pick, but despite all the odds Bulls beat out the Miami Heat for the #1 pick. Which was fitting because many speculated Miami intentionally tanked the previous year to draft Rose. When the Bulls won the lottery, the debate began:
Derrick Rose or Michael Beasley
Both were talented basketball players. But one player filled a glaring need for front court scoring, Michael Beasley. Beasley played center in college but was projected to be a PF/SF in the NBA. And with Tyrus's lack of progression, Beasley would fill a need. Many believed the Bulls should draft Beasley, including Bulls commentator Stacey King.
Rose a Chicago born kid, had a great NCAA tourney. Which sky rocketed his stock past Beasley. Rose's averages rose in the tourney leading his team to the championship, only to fall short. But Rose was a point guard, and the Bulls already had a point guard in Hinrich locked up till 2012. Did it make sense to draft Rose?
The Bulls decided to go with Rose. Why? One reason was maturity. Beasley had character issues, and Rose was the complete opposite. Rose was known for beside his talent, his willingness to learn and work. He was coachable and had great work ethic, opposite of what Beasley was. The Bulls needed Beasley because of his front court scoring, but it wasn't like Rose wasn't talented. The Bulls believed Rose could develop into a star just as much as Beasley and more. Beasley was an undersized PF, and Bulls question his ability to score against NBA front court players. Rose was a good sized point guard, with explosive speed and athleticism. Reports during the draft stated the Bulls decided on Rose weeks before the draft, and were never that high on Beasley's NBA potential.
The Bulls also scouted and loved another player in the draft, Omer Asik. The Bulls hoped he fall to them 39th, but Asik fell 36th to Portland. Asik from Turkey, was known for his rim protection. He was an elite defender and a star in Turkey. The Bulls traded for him, but he would not join the Bulls right away.
Draft Grade: A+
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Rest of Off-Season:
Bulls free agents: Chris Duhon, Shannon Brown, Luol Deng(restricted), Ben Gordon(restricted)
Bulls cap room: About (-1) million
July 31, 2008 - Bulls resign Luol Deng via bird rights. 6yrs/71million
Analysis:
The Bulls realized Luol never met expectations the previous year, but the Bulls also understood he still had value to their team. And he also was arguably their best player the past 4 years. Some argued the Bulls overpaid, but the Bulls still felt Luol could still grow and that we haven't seen Luol's full potential. They also figured with Rose's arrival, he could eventually take pressure off Luol, and Luol would compliment Rose well.
October 2, 2008 - Bulls sign Ben Gordon to qualifying offer. 1yr/6.4million
Analysis:
Ben always made it clear he liked the Bulls but he wanted to be paid. He also stated he wanted to be the highest paid player on the Bulls. His agent's argument was he led the team in scoring every year, and that he should paid like it. The Bulls wanted to keep Gordon, but were never close to the amount Ben wanted. Ben could not find a contract he wanted on the open market either. And opted it was best to come back for another season.
October 27, 2008 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Michael Ruffin via minimum player salary exception. 1yr/1.4 million
Chicago Bulls Opening Night Roster:
PG: Derrick Rose, Kirk Hinich
SG: Ben Gordon, Thabo Sefolosha, Larry Hughes
SF: Luol Deng, Andres Nocioni
PF: Tyrus Thomas, Michael Rufin, Demtetris Nichols, Cedric Simmons
C: Drew Gooden, Aaron Gray
Larry Hughes - 12.8 million
Kirk Hinirch - 10 million
Luol Deng - 9.3 million
Andres Nocioni - 8 million
Drew Gooden - 7.1 million
Ben Gordon - 6.4 million
Derrick Rose - 4.8 million
Tyrus Thomas - 3.7 million
Joakim Noah - 2.2 million
Thabo Sefolosha - 1.9 million
Cedric Simmons - 1.7 million
Aaron Gray - 711k
Demetris Nichols - 427k
Team salary = approx. 69 million
2008-09 salary cap = 58.6 million
Cap room = approx. (-11) million
Off-Season Review:
In some people's eyes it was a make or break off-season. Paxson has done a great job building this team from scratch, but his mistakes the last couple off-seasons caught up to him. And it led to his first losing season since his first year. It started off with finding a coach. It took the Bulls over 50 days to find there guy. And they settled on a guy with NO coaching experience. Which had many shaking their heads but with the understanding Vinny was not their first choice. Or even their 2nd choice.
But head coach was not this team's only issue. They were a team with a bunch of role players who relied on jump shots. With no clear direction, the Bulls got lucky any won the NBA draft lottery. Which led to the drafting of Derrick Rose. Bulls decided Rose was the future of their franchise not Beasley. Many felt though Beasley was a better fit for Chicago, but the Bulls feel in love with not only Rose's talent but his willingness to get better and professionalism.
The Bulls also chose to lock up Deng, and not Gordon. Even though Luol did not meet high expectations in 2007-08, the Bulls still felt he was good enough to be there SF for the next 6 years. They also felt Luol was still growing, and had not reached his full potential. Bulls slightly paid over market value, but with the hope Luol continues to grow and become an all star caliber player.
Bulls liked Gordon and wanted to keep him but never came close to agreeing on a reasonable contract. Bottom line both sides were just too far apart, and it was unlikely the Bulls and Ben would ever reach an agreement. Which led to the question should the Bulls considering trading Ben this upcoming season?
Next year's focus was simple, develop Rose. Find out what pieces on this team work with him and build from there.
Off-Season Grade: A-
Overall Grade: C
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2008-09 Season
November 14, 2008 - Bulls sign Lindsey Hunter via minimum player salary exception. 1yr/1.1 million(722k cap hit)
November 19, 2008 - Bulls waive Demetris Nichols's non guaranteed contract.
February 18, 2009 - Bulls trade Drew Gooden, Andres Nocioni, Michael Ruffin, and Cedric Simmons to the Sacramento Kings for Brad Miller and John Salmons.
Analysis:
Drew Gooden was in a contract year. The Bulls decided to trade him for Brad Miller who they would have under contract for at least one more year. The Bulls were also able to move a big contract in Nocioni while adding more outside scoring in Salmons.
February 19, 2009 - Bulls trade Thabo Sefolosha to Oklahoma City for a conditional pick in 2009.
Analysis:
Jim Boylan started Thabo not too long after he was named interim. And Thabo played well. Going into this year, the Bulls started Thabo next to Rose. But Thabo struggled. He took a step back from his development the year before. He didn't shoot the ball well, and didn't look anywhere near the player from the year before. The Bulls eventually benched Thabo. With a log jam at SG the Bulls decided it was best to trade Thabo, and move on from him.
February 19, 2009 - Bulls trade Larry Hughes to the New York Knicks for Jerome James, Anthony Roberson, and Tim Thomas.
Analysis:
Larry Hughes wasn't happy in Chicago. He wanted more playing time, but the Bulls didn't have room in the rotation for him. Larry requested a trade and it was granted.
March 11, 2009 - Bulls sign Linton Johnson to a 10 day contract.
March 20, 2009 - Bulls sign Linton Johnson via minimum player salary exception.
April 9, 2009 - Bulls sign DeMarcus Nelson via minimum player salary exception.
The Bulls finish 41-41. First round matchup with defending champions Boston Celtics.
Game 1: Bulls 105 Celtics 103
Game 2: Bulls 115 Celtics 118
Game 3: Bulls 87 Celtics 107
Game 4: Bulls 121 Celtics 118
Game 5: Bulls 104 Celtics 106
Game 6: Bulls 128 Celtics 127
Game 7: Bulls 99 Celtics 109
Boston win series 4-3.
2008-09 Season Review/6 year review:
The Bulls were floating around .500 all year till the trade deadline. The trades helped push the Bulls into the playoffs and a first round match up with Boston. Known as the greatest 1st round series ever, the Bulls fell short in 7. The Bulls were without Luol Deng for the series, but Boston was without Kevin Garnett. The series had a total of 7 overtime periods, and had many great moments.
Derrick Rose was good in his first year. Winning rookie of the year, Rose proved all the people wrong who said Beasley was the right choice. Rose showed the quickness and athleticism he showed in college, and showed he would one day develop into a VERY good player.
Luol battled injuries all year, and when healthy struggled. His averages went down, and many blamed Vinny for his struggles. Vinny liked to use Deng in iso situations, the complete opposite of how Skiles used him. Deng looked uncomfortable in Vinny's system, and with injuries it led up to a disappointing year from Luol.
While Luol struggled, Gordon had his best season yet. No doubt making him one of the top free agents this off-season. Hinrich was moved to the bench to back Rose, which seemed to help. Hinrich's shooting % was back up and he became more efficient.
Tyrus Thomas had his best season, but not hard considering his first two were so bad. He worked on his mid range jump shot, which helped his offensive game. He was able to start in 61 games and in the playoffs. But it was clear Tyrus was never going to be the player they thought.
Joakim Noah finished the year sting again, after another slow start. Again Noah's work ethic in the off-season came into question. Reportedly out of shape when camp started. As the season progressed so did Noah. Noah praised Vinny, saying Vinny helped motivate him to become a better player. Noah's game slowly improved throughout the year and Vinny rewarded Noah by starting him despite his early struggles. Noah didn't disappoint by finishing strong and having a great playoff series. Noah said after the series he loved the intensity of the playoffs, and was motivated more than ever to come back stronger. Maybe making the playoffs is what was needed to get Noah more focused during the off-season.
The main questions going into this off-season was Ben Gordon. Do the Bulls resign him? Nationally the 2010 free agent class was getting more attention, and it was assumed the Bulls would want to be a part of it. Signing Gordon to any deal close to what he demanded would take them out of any cap room they wanted open that year. The Bulls were likely to let Gordon walk….
After 5 years, Paxson was beginning to be in the hot seat. Winning the draft lottery was definitely lucky for him. He was able to draft Rose and set a clear direction for the future, and it was Derrick Rose. Lucky or not, Paxson saved his job for now. How he builds around Rose would determine his future from here on out.
6 year grade: C+
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2009 Off-Season
Bulls draft picks:
16th overall
26th overall
The 46th overall pick they would have had was traded in 2008 in the Ben Wallace deal. (Cleveland used the pick to draft Danny Green.)
June 25, 2009 - Bulls draft
James Johnson 16th overall
Taj Gibson 26th overall.
Analysis:
James Johson had a good college career. Slowly improving each year. When the Bulls drafted Johnson they liked his athleticism and body build. He was a big strong guy with athleticism. At college he showed flashes of someone who could score in the NBA. He was strong with both hands, showed nice touch when shooting, and the ability to guard multiple positions. His weaknesses were bad shot selection, plays out of control, does not show NBA range in his shot, and his overall focus on the court. James was talented but needed good coaching to get the most out of him. The Bulls hoped he would mature and be a good piece moving forward.
The Bulls also drafted Taj Gibson. Not highly sought in the draft, the Bulls had their eye on Taj. NBA scouts said he was too small to play PF at a high level in the NBA, they said he had a frail frame, and offensively he was a mess. But the Bulls loved his wing span, which was 7'4. They also liked the idea he played in a pro-styled system at USC under Tim Floyd. So they figured defensively it would be an easy transition for him. And he could help right away.
Draft Grade: C+
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Rest of Off-Season:
Bulls Free Agents: Ben Gordon, Lindsey Hunter, Linton Johnson, DeMarcus Nelson
Bulls cap room: approx (-6 million)
July 10, 2009 - Bulls sign James Johnson and Taj Gibson to rookie deals.
July 13, 2009 - Bulls sign Lindsey Hunter via minimum player salary exception. 1/1.3million(825k cap hit)
July 14, 2009 - Bulls sign Jannero Pargo via non tax paying exception. 1yr/2million
July 14, 2009 - Bulls waive Tim Thomas.
July 20, 2009 - Bulls waive Anthony Roberson
September 23, 2009 - Bulls sign Aaron Gray via early bird exception. 1yr/1 million
Bulls Opening Night Roster:
Head Coach: Vinny Del Negro
PG: Derrick Rose, Jannero Pargo, Lindsey Hunter
SG: John Salmons, Kirk Hinrich
SF: Luol Deng, James Johnson
PF: Tyrus Thomas, Taj Gibson
C: Joakim Noah, Brad Miller, Aaron Gray, Jerome James
Brad Miller - 12.2 million
Luol Deng - 10.3 million
Kirk Hinrich - 9.5 million
Jerome James - 6.6 million
Tim Thomas - 6.4 million (waived)
Derrick Rose - 5.1 million
Janner Pargo - 2 million
James Johnson - 1.5 million
Lindsey Hunter - 1.3 million (825k cap hit)
Taj Gibson - 1 million
Off-Season Review:
The Bulls were mainly setting themselves up for 2010 free agency. With LeBron and others entering free agency, the Bulls wanted to set themselves up with enough cap room to offer at least one max contract. The Bulls main goal was to acquire expiring contracts this season, so they would have as much cap room open for next off-season.
The Bulls let Ben Gordon walk this off-season. Ben signed a 5 year 58 million offer with Detroit. The Bulls reportedly offered Ben a contract, and they never wanted to lose him. But the Bulls and Ben never came close to an extension. Ben bottom line wanted more money than the Bulls were willing to offer. And really, it worked for the Bulls cause it opened up more money than they thought they would have for 2010.
The Bulls added depth through the draft. James Johnson was more of a project, while Gibson was someone the Bulls hoped can contribute right away.
Off-Season Grade: C+
Overall Grade: C+
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2009-10 Season
January 25, 2010 - Bulls trade Aaron Gray to New Orleans for Devin Brown.
Analysis:
The Bulls had trouble shooting, mainly from behind the arc. Devin Brown a month before the trade made six 3's against the Bulls one night. And it obviously caught the Bulls attention, they traded rarely used Aaron Gray for Devin in hopes he could help with their 3pt%.
February 5, 2010 - Bulls sign Chris Richard to a 10 day contract.
February 15, 2012 Bulls sign Chris Richard to a prorated contract via minimum player salary exception.
February 18, 2010 - Bulls trade Tyrus Thomas to Charlotte Bobcats for Acie Law, Ronald Murray, and a protected future 1st round pick.
February 18, 2010 - Bulls trade John Salmons, 2010 1st round pick, 2011 2nd round pick, and a 2012 2nd round pick to the Milwaukee Bucks for Joe Alexander, Hakim Warrick, and a 2010 1st round pick.
Analysis:
Both moves were products of the Bulls going "all in" in 2010 free agency. The Bulls were obviously not trying win it all this year, and really they had little chance to compete.
The Bulls moved Tyrus to Cha. Tyrus in his time here was a disappointment. He played better the last 1 and half years, and at least proved he could play in the NBA. It allowed the Bulls to sell Tyrus to CHA. And not only convince CHA to take and extend Tyrus, but to give up a protected pick also. Murray and Law's expiring contracts were mainly what the Bulls were after.
The Bulls traded John Salmons to Mil. Salmons had a player option worth approx. 8 million in 2010. The Bulls feared Salmons was more than likely going to accept that option, hurting their cap room this off-season. The Bulls decided to move Salmons, and continue to focus on 2010 free agency. Again, Alexander and Warrick's expiring contracts is what the Bulls were after.
March 3, 2010 - Bulls waive Lindsey Hunter.
April 9, 2010 - Bulls waive Jerome James.
April 9, 2010 - Bulls sign free agent Rob Kurz to a prorated contract via minimum player salary exception.
Bulls finish 41-41. 3rd in the Central, 8th in the East. The Bulls will meet the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first round.
Game 1: Bulls 83 Cavs 96
Game 2: Bulls 102 Cavs 112
Game 3: Bulls 108 Cavs 106
Game 4: Bulls 98 Cavs 121
Game 5: Bulls 94 Cavs 96
Cleveland wins series 4-1.
2009-10 Season Review/7 year review:
Bulls lose in the 1st round again, but to little surprise. The Bulls focused all their moves to open up cap room for 2010. And as of right now the Bulls have enough to offer 1 max contract, and enough to fill other needs. The Bulls did everything right up to this point, to be players in free agency this off-season.
Rookie Taj Gibson was solid. Starting in 70 games, Taj proved to be a steal. His transition to the NBA was fast, and he was rewarded the starting job when Tyrus broke his arm, and eventually traded away.
James Johnson struggled, he wasn't in great shape to start the year. And never found consistent minutes in Vinny's rotation.
Noah made on his promise to come back stronger, he averaged a double double and had his best year in the NBA. Joakim's progress was encouraging, and it was clear Joakim was starting to mature.
Derrick Rose took the next step, making the all star team for the first time. He led the Bulls in scoring and assist and proved to be a superstar in the making.
This off-season was big for the Bulls and Paxson. This was going to determine how good the Bulls would be in the next 5 years. They had a rising star in Rose and had to figure out how to build around him. The Bulls were obviously targeting LeBron, and were going to do anything they could to get him in a Bulls uniform.
7 year grade: C+
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2010 Off-Season
May 4, 2010 - Bulls fire head coach Vinny Del Negro.
Analysis:
It's fair to say the Bulls took a chance on Vinny. They missed out on the two guys they wanted and they settled with Vinny. Vinny did good in Chicago. Noah matured under Vinny, and Vinny gave Noah the chance to start. Noah credited Vinny with helping him "grow up" and be a professional athlete. Vinny also coached the Bulls to the playoffs twice.
But Vinny had weaknesses. And it was mainly game management and strategy. Many felt the Bulls were out coached in a lot of games. Vinny was a good motivator, his players played hard for him. But Vinny's X and O's were not good, NBA scouts described the Bulls as "basic" and "predictable". In the end Vinny was not a long term fit in Chicago, and his firing was expected.
June 23, 2010 - Bulls hire Tom Thibodeau to be head coach.
Analysis:
The Bulls targeted Thibbs, and waited till Boston was eliminated to talk with him. The Bulls loved Boston's defense and Thibb's defensive philosophies. And why not, Thibb's defense help lead Boston to two finals and a ring. And Boston players credited Thibb's being the reason their D was so good.
Thibodeau known around the league has a NBA nerd. He watched endless film and worked endless hours. His life was basketball and his love was basketball. The Bulls felt Tom could establish the Bulls as a great defensive hard working team, with a rising star in Derrick Rose.
Bulls draft picks:
17th overall( Bulls swapped 2010 1st round picks with Mil in the John Salmons trade.)
The 15th pick they originally had was used to draft Larry Sanders by Milwaukee.
The 44th pick they originally had was used to draft Jerome Jordan by Milwaukee. The pick was acquired from Portland via GS in the Omer Asik trade back in 2008.
June 24, 2010 - Bulls draft Kevin Seraphin 17th overall.
June 24, 2010 - Bulls trade the rights to Kevin Seraphin along with Kirk Hinrich to Washington for Vladimir Veremeenko and a trade exception.
Draft/Trade Analysis:
The final move in clearing cap space for free agency. The Bulls wanted to keep Kirk but needed to move his contract to free up enough space to offer two max contracts this free agency. The Bulls drafted Seraphin with the intention in moving him. The Bulls acquired Veremeenko who currently plays overseas. After this trade the Bulls were ready to make their play in 2010 free agency.
Draft grade: INC (Bulls used draft to clear more space for free agency)
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Rest of Off-Season:
Bulls free agents: Rob Kurz, Joe Alexander, Hakim Warrick, Ronald Murray, Acie Law, Devin Brown, Brad Miller, Jerome James, Jannero Pargo
Bulls cap room: Approx. 37 million
2010 NBA Key Free Agents(along with 2009-10 stats:
Amar'e Stoudemire: 23.1ppg / 8.2 rpg
David Lee: 20.2 ppg / 11.7 rpg
LeBron James: 29.7 ppg / 8.6 apg / 7.3 rpg
Dwyane Wade: 26.6 ppg / 6.5 apg
Chris Bosh: 24 ppg / 10.8 rpg
Carlos Boozer: 19.5 ppg / 11.2 rpg
Joe Johnson: 21.3 ppg / 5 apg
July 5, 2010 - Phoenix Suns sign and trade Amar'e Stoudemire to the New York Knicks for a 2012 protected second round pick and trade exception.
5yrs/99.7million
July 8, 2010 - Atlanta Hawks resign Joe Johnson via bird rights. 6yrs/123.6million
July 8, 2010 - New York Knicks sign and trade David Lee to the Golden State Warriors for Kelenna Azubuike, Anthony Randolph, Ronny Turiaf, and a 2012 2nd round pick. 6yrs/79.5million
July 8, 2010 - Miami Heat resign Dwyane Wade via bird rights. 6yrs/107.5million
July 8, 2010 - Toronto Raptors sign and trade Chris Bosh to Miami for two 2011 first round picks and a trade exception. 6yrs/109.8million
July 8, 2010 - Utah Jazz sign and trade Carlos Boozer along with a 2nd round pick to the Chicago Bulls for a trade exception. 5yrs/75 million
July 9, 2010 - Cleveland Cavaliers sign and trade LeBron James to Miami Heat for a 2011 2nd round pick, 2012 2nd round pick, two future 1st round picks, and a trade exception. 6yrs/109.8million
2010 free agency analysis:
The Bulls main target was LeBron James. The Bulls were competing with the Knicks, Clippers, Cavs, Heat, and the Nets. James met with all teams on separate dates. The Bulls knew to get LeBron James they had to add another all star to the roster. Derrick Rose was not going to be enough for LeBron to come, although he was a rising star Rose still had not yet establish himself as a superstar in the NBA.
The Bulls main target outside of LeBron was Chris Bosh. The Bulls made it clear to Bosh they wanted him to come to Chicago and help bring LeBron with him. The Bulls held two interviews with Chris Bosh, and one of those interviews Wade joined him. The Bulls targeted Wade, but Wade was looked at has a 2nd option if LeBron didn't join Chicago. Bulls also held two interviews with Wade.
But on July 8, 2010 Wade announced on sportscaster he was returning to Miami. Stating Miami was his family and he did not want to leave. Wade did say Chicago was his next choice and it was hard to turn them down but he did not want to upset his fans in Miami. Also in the same interview Bosh announced he would join Wade in Miami.
So now the Bulls had to go to plan B. The Bulls had to add at least one more all star if they wanted any chance of convincing LeBron to come to Chicago. Boozer was one of the last remaining all star free agents outside of LeBron, who said he would announce his decision on July 9th. The Bulls decided to sign Boozer in hopes Rose/Boozer would convince LeBron to come to Chicago.
Going into the decision the Bulls and Heat were rumored among the favorites to get LeBron. Miami being rumored to be the favorite from many insiders. LeBron had to decide which line up was better:
Rose
Deng
LeBron
Boozer
Noah
or
Chalmers
Wade
LeBron
Bosh
Anthony
The Bulls did EVERYTHING they could to get LeBron. But in the end LeBron chose Wade/Bosh over Rose/Boozer. Disappointing many Bulls fans across the nation.
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Rest of Off-Season:
July 8, 2010 - Bulls sign and trade Hakim Warrick to the Phoenix Suns for a 2011 2nd round pick. 4yrs/16million
July 10, 2010 - Bulls offer restricted free agent JJ Reddick a contract. JJ accepts contract but Orlando matches offer. 3yrs/20million
July 12, 2010 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Kyle Korver via cap room.
3yrs/15million
July 12, 2010 - Bulls buyout unsigned draft pick Omer Asik from Turkish team and sign to a two year deal via cap room. 2yrs/3million
July 19, 2010 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Ronnie Brewer via cap room.
3yrs/14million.
July 21, 2010 - Golden State Warriors sign and trade CJ Watson to Chicago for a future 2nd round pick. 3yrs/9million
July 26, 2010 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Kurt Thomas via minimum player salary exception.
August 11, 2010 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Keith Bogans via cap room.
1yr/1.6million
September 27, 2010 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Brian Scalabrine via minimum player salary exception. 1yr/1.2million
October 4, 2010 - Bulls extend Joakim Noah through 2016 via bird rights.
5yrs/60million
Analysis:
Noah has established himself as one of the better centers in the NBA. Maybe not the best but you can't get much better. It was obvious to the Bulls Noah has matured, and they did not fear giving him an extension. They knew Noah would continue to work hard and give the Bulls all he had.
Bulls Opening Night Roster:
Head Coach: Tom Thibodeau
PG: Derrick Rose, CJ Watson
SG: Ronnie Brewer, Kyle Korver, Keith Bogans
SF: Luol Deng, James Johnson
PF: Carlos Boozer, Taj Gibson, Brian Scalabrine.
C: Joakim Noah, Kurt Thomas, Omer Asik
Carlos Boozer: 14.4 million
Luol Deng: 11.3 million
Derrick Rose: 5.5 million
Kyle Korver: 5 million
Ronnie Brewer: 4.7 million
Joakim Noah: 3.1 million
CJ Watson: 3.1 million
Omer Asik: 1.7 million
Keith Bogans: 1.6 million
Kurt Thomas: 1.3 million (854k cap hit)
Brian Scalabrine: 1.2 million (854k cap hit)
Taj Gibson: 1.1 million
Off-Season Review:
The Bulls missing on LeBron James was the biggest headline of this off-season. The Bulls took a chance and went all in this off-season. They did everything they could to get LeBron, but in the end LeBron chose Miami. Some argued LeBron/Wade/Bosh planned all along to join each other, but either way the Bulls tried and failed.
In plan B, the Bulls decided to build a solid deep team around the core of Rose/Deng/Boozer/Noah. They went 2 deep at every position, making them one of the more deeper teams in the NBA.
Even though the Bulls missed out on the big free agent, they still put together a really good team. They had a new defensive philosophy with coach Thibb's and a new identity. The following year was all about Derrick Rose. It was Rose's third year, would this be the year Rose breaks out?
If the Bulls were going to have success next season, Rose would have to take the next step and become a star.
Off-Season Grade: B-
Overall grade: B-
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2010-11 Season
November 26, 2010 - Bulls sign John Lucas via minimum player salary exception. Contract non-guaranteed.
January 4, 2011 - Bulls waive John Lucas.
February 22, 2011- Bulls trade James Johnson to Toronto for a 1st round pick(via Miami from Bosh trade).
Analysis:
The trade admits the Bulls feel they made a mistake with Johnson. They decided to move on and were able to at least get a 1st round pick for him.
March 3, 2011 - Bulls sign Rasual Butler to a prorated contract via minimum player salary exception.
March 21, 2011 - Bulls sign John Lucas and Jannero Pargo to a prorated contract via minimum player salary exception.
Bulls finish 62-20, 1st in the Central and 1st in the East. Bulls will meet the Indiana Pacers in the 1st round.
Game 1: Bulls 104 Pacers 99
Game 2: Bulls 96 Pacers 90
Game 3: Bulls 88 Pacers 84
Game 4: Bulls 84 Pacers 89
Game 5: Bulls 116 Pacers 89
Chicago wins series 4-1
Bulls will meet the Atlanta Hawks in the 2nd round.
Game 1: Bulls 95 Hawks 103
Game 2: Bulls 86 Hawks 73
Game 3: Bulls 99 Hawks 82
Game 4: Bulls 88 Hawks 100
Game 5: Bulls 95 Hawks 83
Game 6: Bulls 93 Hawks 73
Chicago wins series 4-2
Bulls will meet Miami in the 3rd round
Game 1: Bulls 103 Heat 82
Game 2: Bulls 75 Heat 85
Game 3: Bulls 85 Heat 96
Game 4: Bulls 93 Heat 101
Game 5: Bulls 80 Heat 83
Miami wins series 4-1
2010-11 Season in review/8 year review:
The Bulls missed out on LeBron, but still finished the year with the best record in the NBA. They built a deep team around DRose, and Rose had his best year yet. Starting in the all-star game and winning MVP of the 10-11 season. The year started off weird when Boozer broke his hand by tripping over a gym bag. Boozer missed all of training camp, preseason, and the 1st month of the season. The Bulls were 9-6 without Boozer to start.
Boozer was awesome in his first two months as a Bull. He averaged 20-10 in his first two months. Him and Rose played well together. Boozer hurt his ankle in January and was never the same since. He struggled the rest of the year.
In the first round the Bulls were able to beat Indiana. But every game was close but game 5. The Bulls half court offense struggled, but Rose ended up being the difference in the series. Rose averaged 27 ppg along with 6 apg.
In the next round Bulls met Atlanta, Bulls loss the first game. But in the end Rose proved to be the difference again. Rose averaged 29 ppg in the Atlanta series. He scored 44 points in game 3, and Boozer helped win game 6 scoring 23 points with 10 rebounds.
Next round was an interesting one. The Bulls would play the Miami Heat. It was the Bulls plan A of the off-season against their plan B. Would plan B be better than plan A? In the first game it looked like it. The Bulls killed Miami in game 1, Rose scored 28 points as the Bulls beat Miami. But Rose would really struggled in the next 4 games. Rose shot the ball below 40% in the next 4 games. As Miami focused their defense and made Rose a jump shooter. Rose didn't get much help from his teammates either, as Noah, Boozer, and Korver really struggled in the series also. Miami proved to be too much as they beat the Bulls in 5. Plan A > Plan B
8 year review:
The Bulls were finally back to being to being competitive. They had a team that could compete with anybody, and had one of the top players in the world. But in this city, championship or bust is the mentality. Paxson has not yet build a championship team. But the team he has built to this point is close, but missing a few pieces. Mainly a SG.
The Bulls know to take the next step they need to pair Rose with a SG teams have to respect. They need to give Rose more scoring help. At times in the playoffs if Rose didn't have a GREAT game the Bulls were going to struggle. Rose basically had to score 25-30 points a night, and for a PG that is asking too much. If the Bulls were going to take the next step they needed to figure out a way to get more balance on offense.
8 year grade: B
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2011 Off-Season
Bulls draft picks:
28th overall (Acquired pick in James Johnson trade)
30th overall
43rd overall (Acquired pick in the Carlos Boozer trade)
The 44th pick they would have had was traded in the CJ Watson deal. The Warriors used the pick to draft Charles Jenkins.
The 60th pick they would have had was traded in the John Salmons deal. Mil traded the pick to Sac. Sacramento used the pick to draft Isaiah Thomas.
June 23, 2011- Bulls draft
Noris Cole 28th overall
Jimmy Butler 30th overall
Malcolm Lee 43rd overall.
June 23, 2011 - Bulls trade the rights to Noris Cole, Malcolm Lee, and cash to Minnesota for the rights to Nikola Mirotic.
Draft/Trade Analysis:
The Bulls targeted two players in this draft, Mirotic and Butler. The Bulls knew Mirotic was unlikely to fall to them 28th, so the Bulls drafted Noris Cole to be traded, a long with Malcolm Lee in the 2nd round. The Bulls traded for Mirotic on potential. Knowing he would not be able to join the team right away. Some projected Mirotic has a lottery pick in a future draft, the Bulls decided to get him now, and be patient. Similar to Asik.
The Bulls also drafted Jimmy Butler. Falling in love with his athleticism and maturity, the Bulls felt like they got a steal in this draft. But with a lockout coming up and with no summer league, the Bulls plan was to bring him along slowly next season. Well if there is a next season……..
Draft Grade: A-
LOCKOUT til December.
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Rest of off-season:
Bulls free agents: Keith Bogans, Kurt Thomas, Brian Scalabrine, John Lucas, Rasual Butler, Jannero Pargo
Bulls cap room: approx. (-3) million
December 13, 2011- Bulls resign Brian Scalabrine via minimum player salary exception. 1/1.3 million(854k cap hit)
December 14, 2011 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Richard Hamilton via non-tax paying exception. 3yrs/15million
Other free agent guards
Ray Allen - resigned with Boston
Marco Belineli(RFA) - Stayed with NO
Shannon Brown - Signed with Suns 1yr/3.5 million
Jamal Crawford - Signed with Portland 1yr/5 million
Mike Dunleavy - Signed with Milwaukee 2yrs/7million
Tracey McGrady - Signed with Hawks 1yr/minimum
Michael Redd - Signed with Suns 1yr/minimum
Jason Richardson - Resigned with Magic 4yrs/24million
Nick Young - Sings with 76ers 1yr/3.6 million
Analysis:
Bulls needed a SG. The Bulls decided on Richard Hamilton. Hamilton was in the dog house the last couple years in Detroit. The Pistons signing of Ben Gordon caused a log jam at SG 2 years ago. Detroit wanting to go younger, did not play Hamilton at the minutes he desired. Hamilton battled injuries, but for the most part was healthy. Lack of playing time came from poor coaching, and roster built with too many SGs. Hamilton expressed his unhappiness with Detroit's lack of direction lately, and wanted out. Detroit bought out Hamilton after the lockout ended, giving him his wish.
The Bulls took a chance on Hamilton. But for a guy who has not played over 50 games since the 2008-09 season, would Hamilton's body be able to handle not only starters minutes, but could he be on the court enough? The Bulls figured with Rose, Hamilton would be able to roam free with little attention. The Bulls figured Hamilton could provide more than what Bogans did last year, and it was an upgrade from the previous year.
December 22, 2012 - Bulls extend Derrick Rose through 2017 via bird rights.
5yrs/95million
Analysis:
The Bulls decided to give their MVP a max contract. And deservingly so. But the new CBA threw a wrench in the Bulls plans. Under the old CBA, the Bulls would only have to pay Rose 25% of their team salary. But under the new CBA, the NBA added the "Derrick Rose rule".
Rose's quick rise in the NBA was rare. Rose was the youngest MVP ever. His play caused debate during the lockout, shouldn't he get more than the 25% max?
Under the old rules, for a 3 year player, the max they could receive is 25% of the team's salary. But under the new rules, if the player was:
Named to the All-NBA First, Second, or Third team at least twice
or
Voted as a starter in the All-Star game at least twice
or
Named the NBA MVP at least once
That player would meet the "5th year 30% Max criteria. And the team would have to pay 30% of their salary cap to the player.
The rule forced the Bulls to pay Rose apporx. 5 million more than they had planned. Hurting the team's cap even more.
The following players qualified for this extension:
Derrick Rose
Blake Griffin
James Harden
December 22, 2011 - Bulls sign John Lucas via minimum player salary exception.
Bulls Opening Night Roster
PG: Derrick Rose, CJ Watson, John Lucas
SG: Richard Hamilton, Ronnie Brewer
SF: Luol Deng, Klye Korver, Jimmy Butler
PF: Carlos Boozer, Taj Gibson, Brian Scalabrine
C: Joakim Noah, Omer Asik
Carlos Boozer: 13.5 million
Luol Deng: 12.3 million
Joakim Noah: 12 million
Derrick Rose: 6.9 million
Richard Hamilton: 5 million
Kyle Korver: 5 million
Ronnie Brewer: 4.7 million
CJ Watson: 3.4 million
Omer Asik: 1.8 million
Brian Scalabrine: 1.3 million (854k cap hit)
Taj Gibson: 1.1 million
Jimmy Butler: 1 million
John Lucas: 915k (854k cap hit)
Off-Season Review:
The Bulls had a good draft. But the main concern of the off-season was finding a SG to pair with Rose. SG was the glaring weakness of the team. Many felt they needed to add another scorer. A player who could create scoring opportunities without a play having to be called for them.
The Bulls went with Richard Hamilton. Not known as a scorer, but more of a system player. A player who would run off a screens for his shot. It was an upgrade over Bogans, but was Hamilton the answer? He has not played a lot over the past 3 years. Would his body be able to handle starters minutes in a lockout year?
Off-Season Grade: C-
Overall Grade B-
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2011-12 Season:
February 14, 2012 - Bulls sign Mike James to a 10 day contract.
March 14, 2012 - Bulls sign Mike James to another 10 day contract.
April 5, 2012 - Bulls sign Mike James to a prorated contract via minimum player salary exception.
The Bulls finish the year 50-16, 1st in the Central and East. The Bulls will meet the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round.
Game 1: Bulls 103 76ers 91
Game 2: Bulls 92 76ers 109
Game 3: Bulls 74 76ers 79
Game 4: Bulls 82 76ers 89
Game 5: Bulls 77 76ers 69
Game 6: Bulls 78 76ers 79
Philadelphia wins series 4-2.
2011-12 Season in review/9 year review:
Rose battled injuries all through the year. And suffered his worst one in the playoffs. Tearing his ACL in game 1. As soon as that happened any Bulls chance at a ring was thrown out the window. Noah also hurt his ankle in game 3, and the Bulls just didn't have enough to beat Philly. Not that it mattered. Rose going down ended any chance moving forward. It turned into what could have been into, now what?
The signing of Richard Hamilton didn't prove to be a success, but didn't prove to be a failure either. RIP didn't play that much in the regular season, but RIP was signed for a playoff run, not the regular season. He was also signed to play with Rose.
Which he never got the chance to do really. But RIP showed he was on the decline, and the Bulls maybe been better off going else where. But would it have mattered?
Cause in the end Rose tore his ACL, and no matter how good RIP played it wasn't going to lead the Bulls to a ring.
The Bulls seemed to play better from the year before. The team's assist totals went up. Rose when healthy showed more of a willingness to pass the ball. The team in general shared the ball better. It seemed every one was more comfortable in the system, and understood where to be. Leaving many wondering could the Bulls have beat the Heat? Miami had trouble beating the Celtics in the ECF, Boston took Miami to 7 games and even led the series 3-2.. The Bulls were better than that Boston team, but too bad we will never know.
With the teams best player out till at least 2013, what would the off-season bring. Could the Bulls really expect to contend for a title without Rose for most of the year. Also should Rose even play next year? Is it better he just sit out the year? And what about the bench mob? Do you bring them back, or start to rebuild the bench?
9 year grade: B-
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2012 Off-Season
Bulls draft picks:
29th overall
The 60th pick they would have had was traded in the John Salmons trade back in 2010. Mil traded the pick to Brooklyn who traded it to the LAL. The Lakers used the pick to draft Robert Sacre.
June 28, 2012 - Bulls draft:
Marquis Teague 29th overall.
Analysis:
The Bulls drafted Teague with their only pick. Teague was drafted on potential not need. The Bulls did need a PG with Rose out, but it was assumed the Bulls were going to address that in free agency. And really Teague was more of a project, than NBA ready. Teague was projected to go higher, but fell to the Bulls 29th. Surprised, the Bulls decided to take the best player on the boards in their eyes. They figured Marquis would need more time to groom, but are banking on his potential in the near future. Teague is athletic, 40 inch vertical at draft combine, and extremely fast with the ball. But he is really young, and still has a lot to learn. Especially at the NBA level.
Draft Grade: C+
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Rest of Off-Season
Bulls free agents: Brian Scalabrine, John Lucas
CJ Watson, Ronnie Brewer and Korver have non-guaranteed deals.
Bulls cap room: approx. (-10) million
July 13, 2012 - Bulls waive Ronnie Brewer's non guaranteed contract worth 4.7 million.
Analysis:
The Bulls felt Jimmy Butler could replace Brewer's production. The Bulls also saved 3.7 million off their salary by replacing Brewer with Butler.
July 13, 2012 - Bulls waive CJ Watson's non-guaranteed deal worth 3.7 million
Analysis:
CJ more of a score first point guard was not in the teams plans for next year. The Bulls were looking for a point guard more focused on running the offense with Rose out most of they year. That was not CJ's strength. CJ's strength was his shooting. Also with the rumor the Bulls have verbally agreed to a deal with Kirk Hinrich, Watson's time in Chicago was done.
July 16, 2012 - Bulls trade Kyle Korver to Atlanta for a trade exception an cash.
Analysis:
The Bulls have decided to revamp their bench. Or mainly go cheaper. Korver/Brewer/Watson combined would have cost the Bulls around 12 million to keep. Bulls felt going into a year without Rose for most of it and possibly all of it, that was too much money coming off the bench. Also the Bulls felt they would be able to replace them with cheaper options, and not lose their production. The trade also prevented the Bulls to having to pay Korver 1 million to release him.
July 19, 2012 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Vladmir Radmanovic via minimum player salary exception.
July 20, 2012 - Houston Rockets offer Bulls restricted free agent Omer Asik contract. 3yrs/25million
Analysis:
Omer Asik entered this free agency has a restricted free agent. Meaning any contract he is offered, could be matched by the Bulls. But there was a problem. The Bulls did not own Asik's bird rights.
What are bird rights?
Bird rights are what allows teams to resign their own players over the cap. Bird rights are obtained when the player plays 3 years with the same team. When a player is traded his bird rights are traded with him.
Asik only played two years with the Bulls. Meaning the Bulls could only offer the MLE to resign Asik. Houston offered Asik a 3 year 25 million dollar contract. 8 million for each year. The Bulls technically could not match Houston's offer under the rules of the CBA. But in 2005, the NBA fixed this problem when Washington offered Gilbert Arenas a contract GS could not match. If the Bulls decided to match, the Bulls cap hit for Asik would be 5 million(MLE) the first two years. Then in the 3rd year rise to15 million. Also Asik's trade value would unlikely rise in Chicago, cause he would play behind Noah. So his production would never show his full potential.
The Bulls decided it was best to let Asik walk. Seeing how Asik's 15 million cap hit would kill the Bulls chances at upgrading the team via cap room in 2014 free agency. And it would be even harder to trade Asik, when he only plays 15mpg, and get a fair deal in return.
July 24, 2012 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Kirk Hinich via non tax paying exception. 2yrs/8million
Analysis:
It was reported the Bulls verbally agreed to a contract with Hinrich earlier in the off-season, but the deal could not be done till now. The Bulls had to shed their salary of Brewer, Korver and Watson's contracts before they could officially sign Kirk. Reason being with those 3 contracts they were in the tax, and in order to offer the MLE you can not be in the tax.
The Bulls signed Kirk to replace Rose temporally and when Rose returns to back up Rose. The Bulls always liked Hinrich and didn't want to part ways with him. They only did so as a salary cap move in 2010.
Hinrich struggled with injuries in his years with Atlanta, but played well in his short time in Washington. But with Wall he did not fit in their long term plans. Questioning why they even traded for him? But anyway, the Bulls felt Hinrich would fit in with the current team. He was perfect for Thibb's defensive minded attitude. Also he would be comfortable playing in Chicago, and with former teammates.
July 24, 2012 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Marco Belinelli via bi-annual exception.
Analysis:
The Bulls signed Marco to help replace Korver. Korver might be a better pure shooter than Marco, but Marco wasn't just a stand still shooter. Marco had the ability to drive and finish something Korver could never do. Marco could handle the ball, something Korver was not comfortable with. The Bulls also saved 3.1 million with Marco over Korver, and also felt like they upgraded with Marco's ability.
July 27, 2012 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Nazr Mohammed via minimum player salary exception.
July 31, 2012 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Nate Robinson via minimum player salary exception.
Analysis:
Coach Thibodeau reportedly wanted the Bulls to sign Nate. Nate played for Thibb's in Boston. The Bulls signed Nate after they saw Marquis play in summer league. Teague really struggled in summer league, which many believe caused the Bulls to sign Nate. Nate would back up Hinrich till Rose came back. Thibodeau was also comfortable with starting Nate in case Hinrich went down.
October 1, 2012 - Bulls verbally agree to extend Tom Thibodeau through 2016-17.
Opening Night Roster:
PG: Derrick Rose(Out indefinitely), Kirk Hinrich, Nate Robinson, Marquis Teague
SG: Richard Hamilton, Marco Belineli
SF: Luol Deng, Jimmy Butler
PF: Carlos Boozer, Taj Gibson, Vladimir Radmanovic
C: Joakim Noah, Nazr Mohammed
Derrick Rose: 16.4 million
Carlos Boozer: 15 million
Luol Deng: 13.3 million
Joakim Noah: 11.3 million
Richard Hamilton: 5 million
Kirk Hinrich: 3.9 million
Taj Gibson: 2.1 million
Marco Belinelli: 1.9 million
Nazr Mohammed: 1.3 million(854k cap hit)
Vladimir Radmanovic: 1.3 million(854k cap hit)
Nate Robinson: 1.1 million (854k cap hit)
Jimmy Butler: 1 million
Marquis Teague: 1 million
Team Salary: approx. 73.6 million (74.3 Hard Cap)
Cap Room: approx. (-17 million)
Luxury Tax: 70.3 million
Tax Hit: approx. 3.3 million
Off-Season Review:
The Bulls said in the off-season they would make "basketball decisions". But pretty clearly made "financial decisions". With Rose out for most of the year, the Bulls chances at winning a ring were slim. The Bulls got rid of Korver, Watson, Brewer and replaced them with Hinrich, Butler, Belineli. Those moves saved them 6.6 million. Which would have been 6.6 million extra in tax money. There was no way ownership would let that happen. Ownership knew with Rose's raise they likely were going to be in the tax regardless. The idea was to pay as little tax as they could. But the Bulls still felt they didn't lose much in production with the moves, and possibly even upgraded depending on Butler's development.
The Bulls lost Asik to the Rockets, which they knew would hurt. But as I explained earlier, the Bulls just felt it made more sense to not match seeing how matching would hurt them more than help in the future. The Bulls signed the veteran Nazr Mohammed in hopes he could replace some of what Asik brought in his 15 minutes off the bench for the Bulls.
Rumored on the move was Luol Deng all off-season. Reportedly the Bulls and the Warriors were in discussion. In the end GS felt it was best to keep their picks, and the Bulls denied the rumors were even true. But it would have made sense in the Bulls efforts to go "cheaper". Maybe the rumors were true…
But anyhow, the Bulls clearly didn't have high hopes for the upcoming season. They were in a sense just rolling the dice and seeing how far this team could go. They still wanted the team to compete and try hard. Some said they should have tanked, but with this Bulls roster it would have been near impossible to tank. They were good enough to at least make the playoffs. And obviously it doesn't make "business" sense to throw a season away, so that idea just wasn't happening. The Bulls expect to compete, but their main focus is on Rose. And getting him back to the MVP level they will need him to be at to win in the future.
Off-Season Grade: B
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2012-13 Season
October 31, 2012 - Bulls extend Taj Gibson through 2016-17. 4rys/33million
Analysis:
The Bulls did not want Taj to hit restricted free agency. Which he was due to after this season. Taj's extension kicks in next year.
January 6, 2013 - Bulls sign DeQuan Cook to a prorated contract via minimum player salary exception.
March 2, 2013 - Bulls sign Lou Amundson to a 10 day contract.
March 19, 2013 - Bulls sign Malcolm Thomas to a 10 day contract.
April 8, 2013 - Bulls sign Malcolm Thomas to a prorated contract via minimum player salary exception.
The Bulls finish 45-37 2nd in the Central, 5th in the East. They will meet the Brooklyn Nets in the first round.
Game 1: Bulls 89 Nets 106
Game 2: Bulls 90 Nets 82
Game 3: Bulls 79 Nets 76
Game 4: Bulls 142 Nets 134
Game 5: Bulls 91 Nets 110
Game 6: Bulls 92 Nets 95
Game 7: Bulls 99 Nets 93
Chicago wins series 4-3. Will meet defending champion Miami Heat in 2nd round.
Game 1: Bulls 93 Heat 86
Game 2: Bulls 78 Heat 115
Game 3: Bulls 94 Heat 104
Game 4: Bulls 65 Heat 88
Game 5: Bulls 91 Heat 94
Miami wins series 4-1.
2012-13 Season in Review:
Going into the year as a "wash", the Bulls accomplished a lot. They battled injuries all year to every part of their team. Still made the playoffs and were even able to win a series with their starting center playing limited minutes the first 3 games. And with their starting PG and SF missing the last two.
Jimmy Butler emerged as a steal in 2012's draft. He got better and better with more playing time. Belineli played well and brought a different dynamic to the team than what Korver brought. He was able to put the ball on the floor and score.
Nate Robinson also proved to be a steal in free agency, and was a big part of the Bulls success this season.
But the dominate headline was Derrick Rose. Rose was cleared to play in late February but claimed he was not mentally ready to play. Causing fans to take sides. Some with Rose some against. Bottom line was the Bulls are only as good as Rose is, and without him the Bulls were just a good team. Not great or contenders.
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My quick 10 year review:
The bottom line is this. Paxson did a GREAT job up to the 2006 off-season. The trading of Tyrus and singing of Wallace ended up being big mistakes. Which caused the Bulls big in 2007.
The Bulls did get lucky with the Rose pick, but still made to right choice over Beasley. Some say if they didn't get that pick where would they be? Well they did get that pick and made the right choice with it… Anyone can speculate what would have happened but all I know is what happened.
The Bulls eventually focused their attention on LeBron. And rightfully so. LeBron was the best player in the NBA, the Bulls be stupid not to go after him. They did everything they could but in the end could not make LeBron sign with them.
The Bulls plan B did get them the best record but only to fall short to the team that had their plan A.
The following year the Bulls had the best record again only to see their best player tear his ACL. And then this year was merely a wash….
Has Paxson done a good enough job to keep his job?
I say yes. The Bulls only had two losing seasons under Paxson. And this team can not be judged on the past 2 years. Without Rose this team is just not good enough to win a ring. Who knows what would have happened last year or this year…
To me how Paxson handles the next two years determines his fate. The core of Rose/Luoul/Boozer/Noah can only last so long. How he builds around Rose in the upcoming off-seasons will determine if Paxson keeps his job…
In this review, EVERY move is detailed. It has off-season/draft analysis. I hope you enjoy. I must admit it is EXTREMELY LONG. But worth the read.
John Paxon's Tenure with the Chicago Bulls.
By: The Ball Don't Lie
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Here is the Bulls roster John Paxson acquired(2002-03):
Head Coach: Bill Cartwright
PG: Jay Williams, Jamal Crawford, Rick Brunson
SG: Trenton Hassel, Fred Hoiberg
SF: Jalen Rose, Eddie Robinson, Roger Mason Jr.
PF: Marcus Fizer, Donyell Marshell, Lonny Baxter
C: Eddy Curry, Tyson Chandler, Corie Blount, Dalibor Bagaric
Jalen Rose - 12 million
Eddie Robinson - 5.6 million
Donyell Marshall - 4.1 million
Tyson Chandler - 3.5 million
Jay Williams - 3.4 million
Marcus Fizer - 2.9 million
Eddy Curry - 2.8 million
Jamal Crawford - 2 million
Corie Blount - 1.4 million
Fred Hoiberg - 1.4 million
Dalibor Bagaric - 830k
Rick Brunson - 637k
Trenton Hassell - 512k
Lonny Baxter - 349k
Roger Mason Jr - 349k
Team salary = Approx. 44 million
2002-03 Salary cap = 40.2 million
Bulls cap = Approx. (-4) million
Jerry Krause built that team. The idea was to build around the two 7 footers in Chandler and Curry. He even traded rookie of the year Elton Brand to get Chandler.
The project did not work right away. Both were fresh out of high school and had no idea what being a professional athlete was all about. Tyson was too skinny, pushed around his first year. Curry was out of shape, bad work ethic.
Krause drafted Jay Williams with the 2nd overall pick in 2002 to be the future at point guard. He was suppose to be the final young piece to this rebuilding team.
But the Bulls finished 30-54 in 2002-03. Their young players made little progression. The team seemed to be heading backwards. Leading to the resignation of Bulls GM Jerry Krause.
April 15, 2003 - John Paxson is named GM of the Chicago Bulls
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2003 Off-Season
June 19, 2003 - One week before the draft, point guard Jay Williams crashes motorcycle. Injuries end his basketball career.
Analysis:
Jay Williams was suppose to be the future of the Bulls. Anything the Bulls did this off-season was going to be built around Williams. Whatever plans Paxson had for the team, now had to be completely changed.
Bulls upcoming draft picks:
7th overall
36th overall
44th overall (acquired from Pho for Jake Voskuhl in 2001)
53rd overall (acquired from Mia for Sean Lampley in 2001)
June 26, 2003 - Bulls draft:
Kirk Hinrich 7th overall
Mario Austin 36th overall
Matt Bonner 44th ovreall
Tommy Smith 53rd overall
Other point guards available to the Bulls:
TJ Ford - Drafted 8th by Milwaukee
Marcus Banks - Drafted 13th by Memphis
Luke Ridnour - Drafted 14th by Seattle
Troy Bell - Drafted 16th by Boston
Steve Blake - Drafted 38th by Washington
Mo Williams - Drafted 47th by Utah
Draft analysis:
Bulls needed to replace Jay Williams at point guard. Which is why Kirk Hinrich was drafted. Bulls reportedly were targeting Dwyane Wade in the draft. But he was drafted 5th overall by the Miami Heat. 2 picks before the Bulls. Bulls felt Hinrich was the best player available. They also wanted to draft a player from a winning program.
Draft Grade: B
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Rest of off-season:
Bulls free agents: Fred Hoiberg, Corie Blount, Rick Brunson (no particular order)
Bulls cap room = 2 million.
June 27, 2003 - Bulls trade Matt Bonner to Toronto for future 2nd round pick.
July 21, 2003 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Scottie Pippen via non tax paying exception(MLE). 2yrs/10 million
August 1, 2003 - Bulls re-sign Corie Blount via Bi-Annual exception. 1yr/1.6 million
August 21, 2003 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Kendall Gill via minimum player salary exception. 1yr/1million
September 5, 2003 - Bulls buyout Dalibor Bagaric's contract for 1.6 milion.
September 29, 2003 - Bulls sign undrafted free agent Linton Johnson to the minimum. 1yr/366k
October 24, 2003 - Bulls waive Trenton Hassell's non-guaranteed contract.
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2003-04 Chicago Bulls opening night roster:
Head Coach: Bill Cartwright
PG: , Kirk Hinrich, Jamal Crawford
SG: Kendall Gill, Roger Mason JR, Eddie Robinson
SF: Jalen Rose, Marcus Fizer, Scottie Pippen, Linton Johnson
PF: Donyell Marshall, Lonny Baxter
C: Eddy Curry, Tyson Chandler, Corie Blount
Jalen Rose - 13.2 million
Eddie Robinson - 6.2 million
Scottie Pippen - 4.9 million
Donyell Marshall - 4.6 million
Tyson Chandler - 3.8 million
Marcus Fizer - 3.7 million
Jay Williams - 3.7 million(injured)
Eddy Curry - 3 million
Jamal Crawford - 2.5 million
Kirk Hinrich - 2 million
Corie Blount - 1.6 million
Dalibor Bagaric - 1.6 million(buyout)
Kendall Gill - 1 million (688K cap hit)
Lonny Baxter - 636k
Roger Mason Jr - 563k
Linton Johnson - 366k
Team Salary = Approx. 52 million
2003-04 Salary Cap = 43.8 million
Cap Room = Approx. (-9) million
Tax Level = 52.9 million
Off-Season Review:
It was kind of a strange start for Paxson. Their future franchise player Jay Williams ruins his career in a motorcycle accident a week before the draft. Setting the franchise back a year and completely changing whatever plans Paxson had for his first draft. Paxson decided to draft a point guard to replace Williams in Kirk Hinrich. Ideally the Bulls wanted to not have a good season, but focus on obtaining a better draft pick. Bulls let Brunson and Hoiberg walk, but kept Corie Blount for depth. Bulls added veteran leadership to a young immature team by signing free agent veterans Pippen and Gill. Main goals for 2003-04 were to develop Curry and Chandler. And begin to develop a mature attitude within the locker room moving forward.
Off-Season Grade: B
Grade up to this point: B
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2003-04 Season:
November 25, 2003 - Bulls fire head coach Bill Cartwright. Name Pete Myers interim.
Why?
Bulls were 4-10 at the time of the firing. Bill Carwright overall was 51-100 with the Bulls. Team showed little improvement in his time with the Bulls, which led to his firing.
November 28, 2003 - Bulls name Scott Skiles head coach.
Why Skiles?
This Bulls team began to be known as undisciplined and immature. Skiles was known for running a strict team, and holding players accountable. Which led Paxson to hire him. The idea was for Skiles to come in and bring a more "professional" attitude and to demand a better work ethic from younger players. Specifically Eddy Curry.
It was rumored Paxson intentionally waited till after the season started to fire Cartwright, and then hire Skiles. It was also odd to some how quickly Paxson hired Skiles. Showing maybe he had Skiles picked for some time. Some speculated cause of the timing, Cartwright was a lame duck. They always planned to fire him, but wanted to wait till during the season.
But why?
It all goes back to getting a better draft pick. The Bulls could have just fired Cartwright before the season, but the Bulls wanted to have a bad year. They wanted a higher pick. The timing did not allow Skiles a training camp. Meaning he had to install his system during the season. Which is harder on the players. Usually when a coach is fired the team hires an interim to finish the year to prevent this. The interim is usually an assistant of the fired coach. The interim usually will run the same system with slight differences. Skiles and Cartwright were two totally different coaches and systems. This idea would lead to struggles on the court, leading to a better draft pick ideally.
But this of course was all speculation by reporters, not fact. Possible though, and not uncommon in professional sports.
December 2, 2003 - Bulls trade Jalen Rose, Donyell Marshall, and Lonny Baxter to Toronto for Antonio Davis, Jerome Williams, and Chris Jefferies.
Trade analysis:
The Bulls needed front court help at the tine. Chandler was having back problems. Plus Antonio Davis wanted out of Toronto. Also the idea was for Davis to be a mentor to Curry and Chandler. The Bulls were also happy to rid themselves of Rose's long contract.
December 16, 2003 - Bulls trade Roger Mason Jr. to Toronto for Rick Brunson.
Trade Analysis - Minor move. Bulls didn't use Mason. Toronto didn't use Brunson. Both teams deciding to switch players. Mason was released not too long after by Toronto. As was Brunson with the Bulls.
January 6, 2003 - Bulls waive Linton Johnson.
January 8, 2004 - Bulls sign Ronald Dupree to a 10 day contract.
January 18, 2004 - Bulls resign Ronald Dupree to a 2nd 10 day contract.
January 29, 2004 - Bulls sign Ronald Dupree for the reminder of the season
February 17, 2004 - Bulls waive Jay Williams.
Analysis:
It was clear to the Bulls William's injuries would end his career. And even if he did make a comeback he would never be the player they needed from him. Jay Williams never played another game in the NBA.
February 29, 2004 - Bulls sign Linton Johnson to a 10 day contract due to injuries to Kendall Gill and Chris Jefferies.
March 3, 2004 - Bulls waive Corie Blount.
March 5, 2004 - Bulls sign Paul Shirley to a 10 day contract due to injuries to Marcus Fizer.
March 10, 2004 - Bulls sign Linton Johnson to a 2nd 10 day contract.
March 17, 2004 - Bulls waive Rick Brunson. Sign Jannero Pargo to a 10 a day contract. Sign Paul Shirley to a 2nd 10 day contract.
March 20, 2004 - Bulls sign Linton Johnson to a prorated contract via minimum player salary exception.
March 26, 2004 - Bulls sign Paul Shirley and Jannero Pargo to prorated contracts via minimum player salary exception.
2003-04 Season Review:
Bulls finish 23-59, the 2nd worse record in the NBA. But going into the year it was all about developing Curry and Chandler. Tyson all year was battling back injuries. He was limited to playing 35 games and only starting in 8 of them. Eddy Curry started off slow but progressed as the year went along. Coach Skiles had a rough first year but was expected. The team is young and he didn't have a training camp to install his system. He ran his team on the fly. Curry did show progress under Skiles. Which was encouraging going into next year. Rookie Kirk Hinrich was solid, and helped move forward without injured guard Jay Williams. Hinrich made NBA All-Rookie First Team along with LeBron, Wade, Melo, and Bosh.
1 year grade: B
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2004 Off-Season
Bulls draft picks:
3rd overall
32nd overall
39th overall(acquired from Tor for Matt Bonner in 2003)
June 24, 2004 - Bulls draft:
Ben Gordon 3rd overall
Jackson Vroman 32nd overall
Chris Duhon 39th overall
Notable players drafted after 3rd overall pick:
Andre Iguodala - 9th overall by Philadelphia.
Al Jefferson - 15th overall by Boston
Josh Smith - 17th overall by Milwaukee
June 24, 2004 - Bulls trade the rights to Jackson Vroman, 2005 1st round pick and cash to Phoenix for the rights to Luol Deng.
Draft/Trade analysis:
With Curry's improvement by the end of last year, the Bulls decided to focus on drafting shooters and wing players. Bulls drafted a shooter in Ben Gordon, a point guard in Chris Duhon, and traded for the rights to forward Luol Deng. The Bulls loved Luol's defensive potential in Skiles's system, who was a power forward in college. Ben Gordon was one of the best shooters in the draft, which is what attracted him to the Bulls. And the Bulls Chris Duhon could a nice back up for Kirk Hinrich right away. Also part of Paxson's plan was to draft players from winning programs. The Bulls overall team attitude in the past was poor and part of Paxson's plan to fix that was to bring in players from winning backgrounds. Gordon was from UConn which won a national title in 2004. And both Luol and Chris were from Duke. Hinrich a year before from Kansas which went to a national championship.
Draft Grade: B
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Rest of off-season:
Bulls Free Agents: Jamal Crawford, Kendall Gill, Jannero Pargo, Ronald Dupree, Linton Johnson, Paul Shirley (no particular order)
Bulls Cap Room: 3 million
June 22, 2004 - Bulls player Marcus Fizer is drafted by Charlotte Bobcats in expansion draft.
August 5, 2004 - Bulls sign(via bird rights) and trade Jamal Crawford along with Jerome Williams to the Knicks for Dikeme Mutombo, Othella Harriington, Frank Williams, and Cezary Trybanski.
Trade Analysis:
The Bulls never had Crawford in their long term plans. Skiles had a hard time coaching him, and never liked his defense, shot selection, and mainly his immaturity. They also wanted financial flexibility. And with Ben Gordon they did not have a need for Crawford anymore. Bulls could control Ben for cheaper and get near the same production Crawford gave them.
August 11, 2004 - Bulls sign internaitional free agent Andres Nocioni from Argentina via cap room. 3yrs/6million
September 8, 2004 - Bulls trade Dikeme Mutombo to Houston for Eric Piatkowski, Adrian Griffin and Mike Wilks
Trade Analysis:
Houston wanted a backup for Yao Ming. And they thought Mutombo was an ideal fit. Bulls added depth and gave up a player they had no need for. Also saved a little under a million in salary.
September 30, 2004 - Bulls sign undrafted free agent Jared Reiner via minimum player salary exception. 1yr/385k
September 30, 2004 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Jannero Pargo via minimum player salary exception. 1yr/695k
October 4, 2004 - Bulls waive Chris Jefferies.
October 6, 2004 - Bulls announce Scottie Pippen's retirement.
October 20, 2004 - Bulls waive Mike Wilks.
October 28, 2004 - Bulls waive Cezary Trybanski.
November 2, 2004 - Bulls agree to buyout the final two years of Eddie Robinson's five year contract.
Analysis:
Eddie Robinson signed a 5 year 32 million contract with the Bulls in 2001. In his time with the Bulls Robinson struggled and never met expectations. He also missed 102 games in his first three years. Paxson convinced owner Jerry Reinsdorf it was best to buy out his last two years for 10 million dollars.
2004-05 opening night roster:
Coach: Scott Skiles
PG: Kirk Hinrich, Chris Duhon, Jannero Pargo
SG: Ben Gordon, Eric Piatkowski, Frank Williams
SF: Luol Deng, Andres Nocioni, Adrian Griffin
PF: Antonio Davis, Othella Harrington
C: Eddy Curry, Tyson Chandler, Jared Reiner
Antonio Davis - 12.9 million
Scottie Pippen - 5.4 million (retired)
Eddie Robinson - 5 million (buyout)
Tyson Chandler - 4.8 million
Eddy Curry - 3.8 million
Ben Gordon - 3.3 million
Othella Harrington - 3.1 million
Eric Paitkowski - 2.7 million
Andres Nocioni - 2.5 million
Kirk Hinrich - 2.3 million
Luol Deng - 2.2 million
Cezary Trybanski - 1.7 million (waived)
Jay Williams 1.5 million (waived)
Frank Williams - 957k
Chris Jefferies - 899k (waived)
Adrian Griffin - 870k
Mike Wilks - 720k (waived)
Jannero Pargo - 695k
Tommy Smith - 620k
Chris Duhon - 385k
Jared Reiner - 385k
Team Salary: Approx. 57 million
Salary Cap: 43.8 million
Cap Room = Approx. (-14) million
Off-Season Analysis:
The main goal of this off-season was to get rid of the old "baggage" left over from the Krause era. Well mainly Eddie Robinson and Jamal Crawford. Crawford was easier to get rid of, he was valued by other teams cause of his ability to handle the ball and score. Robinson ended up costing the Bulls 10 million to get rid of.
The Bulls added more youth specifically to surround Curry and Chandler. Brought in a tough minded player in Nocioni, and kept a strong veteran leader in Antonio Davis. The Bulls didn't go into next season thinking playoffs, but they wanted to see their team take a step forward and at least start to be competitive. Also continue to see their young players grow. Especially with NO draft picks going into next year(traded for Luol Deng), this wasn't the season to be bad and try to obtain a good pick. They had to compete and win as much as the could. This upcoming season was key for Curry and Chandler, cause both were going into contract years. This was the last chance for them to show the NBA they could play at this level consistently.
Off-Season Side Note: It was confirmed the Bulls were 3 teams Kobe seriously considered joining. Kobe a free agent this summer said it was down to three teams, Lakers, Clippers, and the Bulls. Bulls worked hard to work a sign and trade with LAL but Kobe decided LAL was best for him.
Off-Season Grade: B
Overall Grade: B
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2004-05 Season
January 6, 2005 - Bulls waive Tommy Smith.
April 18th, 2005 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Lawrence Faunderburke to a prorated contract via minimum player salary exception due to injuries to Luol Deng.
Bulls finish season 47-35. 2nd in Central Division behind Detroit. 4th in the Eastern Conference. First round match up with 5th seed Washington Wizards.
Game 1: Bulls 103 Wizards 94
Game 2: Bulls 113 Wizards 103
Game 3: Bulls 99 Wizards 117
Game 4: Bulls 99 Wizards 106
Game 5: Bulls 110 Wizards 112
Game 6: Bulls 91 Wizards 94
Washington wins series 4-2
2004-05 Season Review:
Going into the year Bulls had low expectations, mainly focused on player development. Year started off no surprise with the Bulls going 0-9. Bulls looked to be headed to another basement year. But Skiles made a change to the line up, asking Gordon/Chandler to come off the bench and have Duhon/Deng start. The change worked beautifully as the Bulls finished the year 47-26. But 13 games before the playoffs Eddy Curry was hospitalized for an irregular heart beat. Which would cause him to miss the playoffs. Also Luol Deng would miss the playoffs with a tear in his right wrist. Despite all that Bulls fought Washington tough but fell short in 6 games. Bulls won the first two games but the series changed when it went to Washington. Washington easily won game 3 and 4, and Arenas hit a game winner in game 5. Bulls then lost a tough game 6. Despite losing the series the Bulls were encouraged. They went into the year expecting to be in the bottom half, but ended up in the top 10. The play of Luol and Gordon was also great. Both made All Rookie First Team, and Gordon won 6th man of the year. He was 2nd in rookie of the year behind college teammate Emeka Okafor. Chandler was great off the bench having his best year yet. His defensive presence was perfect for Skiles system, and was a great compliment to Eddy Curry. Curry played well before the heart problems, showing he could score in the post. Shaq even called him the "Baby Shaq". Hinrich also improved on his rookie year.
2 year review:
The Bulls overachieved in Paxson's 2nd year, but the Bulls weren't complaining. Skiles has developed a good structure for his young players. Chandler had his best year, and really all the young players played well under Skiles. Even Eddy Curry was starting to look like the guy Jerry Krause drafted. But the heart problems raised an issue, especially cause Curry is a restricted free agent this off-season. Paxson has done a great job up to this point rebuilding this team out of misery, but how he handles the Eddy Curry situation this off-season will be critical for this team to move forward.
2 year Grade: A-
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2005 Off-Season:
Bulls Draft Picks: NONE
Why?
They would have had the 21st pick but it was traded to Phoenix for Luol Deng last off-season. Which Phoenix used to draft Nate Robinson, but then traded him to New York.
They would have had the 51st pick but it was traded to Houston back in 2000, for Bryce Drew. Which Houston traded to to Utah. The pick was used to draft Robert Whaley.
Bulls free agents: Chris Duhon, Tyson Chandler, Eddy Curry, Othella Harrington, Jannero Pargo, Frank Williams, Adrian Griffin, Jared Reiner (no particular order)
Bulls cap room: 11 million
August 9, 2005 - Bulls sign undrafted free agent Eddie Basden via minimum player salary exception. 1yr/400k
August 16, 2005 - Bulls resign Chris Duhon via cap room. 3yrs/9million
August 25, 2005 - Bulls resign Othella Harrington via bird rights. 1yr/3.5million
September 1, 2005 - Bulls resign Tyson Chandler via bird rights. 6yrs/64million
Analysis:
Tyson had his best year in the NBA last year. Even though it was off the bench, Chandler's impact on the team was one of a starter. When he was in the game the defense was at its best. He also complimented the offensive Eddy Curry really well. The Bulls eventually planned on starting Chandler, and believed he would develop into one of the top centers in the NBA. The Bulls paid on production and with the hopes he is not done developing.
September 3, 2005 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Malik Allen via non tax paying exception. 2yrs/3million
September 23, 2005 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Darius Songaila via non tax paying exception. 1yr/2.2 million
October 5, 2005 - Bulls sign(via bird rights) and trade Eddy Curry along with Antonio Davis, and 2007 1st round pick to New York for Mike Sweetney, Tim Thomas, Jermaine Jackson, 2006 1st round pick, 2007 1st round pick, 2007 2nd round pick, and 2009 2nd round pick.
Trade Analysis:
The Eddy Curry heart problem dominated the off-season. It started when ownership requested Curry take a DNA test, recommended by Barry Maron a world renewed specialist in hypertonic cardiomyopathy. The test would determine whether he has a congenital heart condition. The Bulls even offered 400k for 50 years if he failed the test seeing how the test could ruin his basketball career. Curry refused and was not required to take the test legally. The Bulls decided not to give Curry an extension without taking the test. Instead, agreed to sign and trade him to New York. In the deal they gave up a 1st round pick, but received two first round picks also in the deal. Along with two 2nd rounders.
A Brief Look Into the Future:
Eddy Curry struggled in his 1st year with NY. But in his 2nd year Curry thrived averaging 19.6 ppg. But after that year Curry's weight problems grew, and he slowly faded out of a job. The heart was never an issue for him since the trade though.
October 18, 2005 - Bulls sign Jannero Pargo via mid level exception. 1yr/895k
October 18, 2005 - Bulls waive Jermaine Jackson's non guaranteed contract.
2005-06 Opening Night Roster:
PG: Kirk Hinrich, Chris Duhon, Jannero Pargo
SG: Ben Gordon, Eric Piatkowski
SF: Luol Deng, Andres Nocioni, TIm Thomas, Eddie Basden
PF: Michael Sweetney, Darius Songaila
C: Tyson Chandler, Othella Harrington
Tim Thomas - 13.9 million
Tyson Chandler - 9 million
Eddie Robinson - 5.4 million (buyout)
Ben Gordon - 3.6 million
Othella Harrington - 3.5 million
Eric Piatkowski - 3 million
Chris Duhon - 2.8 million
Andres Nocioni - 2.7 million
Kirk Hinrich - 2.5 million
Luol Deng - 2.4 million
Darius Songaila - 2 million
Michael Sweetney - 2.1 million
Malik Allen - 1.6 million
Janner Pargo - 895k
Eddie Badsen 398k
Off-Season Analysis:
The Eddy Curry heart problem defined and dominated this off-season. Eddy Curry offensively was really good, but defensively he drove coach Skiles crazy with his rim protection. He also struggled getting rebounds. Even without the heart problem, the Bulls might have parted ways with Curry. Especially with the Chandler extension. They also might have been able to get more than what they did in the trade. But either it was clear Curry did not fit into Skiles defensive system, nor was he a fan of his work ethic. Not taking the DNA test was just the clincher. The Bulls decided to keep Chandler, coming off his best season. They gave Tyson a long term deal at 6 years 64 million, also the last piece of the Krause era.
But with losing Curry the Bulls knew their team was going to take a step backwards. Curry could score, and helped that team win some of those 47 games last year. The Bulls also knew they would have cap room next year with Tim Thomas coming off along with Eddie Robinson's buyout cap hit and others. They also knew they received two first rounders from the Curry deal. So the pieces were there to improve this team next year. But this year, might have to be a "wash". And more of a focus on player development with Chandler, Hinrich, Gordon, and Deng.
Off-Season Grade: B+
Overall Grade: A-
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2005-06 Season:
January 6, 2006 - Bulls sign Randy Holcombe to a 10 day contract.
January 18, 2006 - Bulls sign Stephen Graham to a 10 day contract.
January 21, 2006 - Bulls assign Eddie Basden to D-League
January 28, 2006 - Bulls sign James Thomas to a 10 day contract.
February 6, 2006 - Bulls sign Jame Thomas to another 10 day contract.
March 1, 2006 - Bulls waive Tim Thomas.
March 6, 2006 - Bulls sign Luke Schenscher to a 10 day contract.
March 14, 2006 - Bulls recall Eddie Basden from D-League.
March 15, 2006 - Bulls sign Luke Schenscher to another 10 day contract.
March 23, 2006 - Bulls sign Randy Livingston to a 10 day contract.
April 2, 2006 - Bulls sign Randy Livingston to another 10 day contract.
April 12, 2006 - Bulls sign Randy Livingston to a prorated contract via minimum player salary exception.
Bulls finish 41-41tied for 3rd in the Central, and 7th in the East. First round match up the Miami Heat.
Game 1: Bulls 106 Miami 111
Game 2: Bulls 108 Heat 115
Game 3: Bulls 109 Heat 90
Game 4: Bulls 93 Heat 87
Game 5: Bulls 78 Heat 92
Game 6: Bulls 96 Heat 113
Miami wins series 4-2
2005-06 Review/3 year review:
When the year started the Bulls were more focused on player development. The core future was looking to be Hinirch, Gordon, Deng, Chandler. But Chandler took a step back in 05-06. His defense and rebounding were slightly down from the year before. Which was not encouraging after giving him a long term extension. There was a fear amongst fans/team that Chandler had peaked. But while Chandler struggled, Deng and Gordon improved overall. Hinrich remained solid and consistent. The Bulls loss to Miami in 6 who went on to win it all that year, but they fought them tough through the first four games. Miami just showed they were better in the last two. Something that also showed this year was the inability to get low post scoring. The Bulls became jump shooters without Curry, which hurt their half court offense. Something that needed to be addressed.
After 3 years, the Bulls made the playoffs twice. Despite two MAJOR injuries to two key players(Jay Williams, Eddy Curry). Although record wise they took a step down from the previous year, it was expected with the loss of Eddy Curry. But next year was the year. Why? Well they established their coach and style. The Bulls will have cap room and the 2nd overall pick in the upcoming draft. Along with another potential lottery pick going into 2007. Their young core was going into their prime years, this was the chance for the Bulls to take the next step. This off-season could make or break what Paxson has begun to built, and was going to be the key off-season so far in the Paxson era.
3 Year Grade: A-
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2006 Off-Season:
Bulls draft picks:
2nd overall(Acquired in the Eddy Curry deal with New York)
16th overall
The Bulls would have had the 46th pick also, but traded it to Houston for Bryce Drew in 2000. Houston traded it to Utah who used the pick to draft Dee Brown.
June 28th, 2006 - Bulls draft
LaMarcus Aldridge 2nd overall
Rodney Carney 16th overall.
June 28, 2006 - Bulls trade the rights to LaMarcus Aldridge to Portland for the rights to Tyrus Thomas along with Victor Khryapa.
June 28, 2006 - Bulls trade the rights to Rodney Carney, 2007 2nd round pick, and cash to Philadelphia for the rights to Thabo Sefolosha.
Draft/Trade Analysis:
Tyrus Thomas vs LaMarcus Aldridge
At the time of the draft Aldridge was considered "more ready" for the NBA than Tyrus. Aldridge was a real good offensive player with good post moves. Defensively he was capable but not strong. But overall a good basketball player with a good understanding of the game.
Tyrus was an athletic freak out of LSU. Really good on the defensive end but a work in progress on the offensive end. The potential was there cause of his athleticism. Or so people thought at the time. Tyrus though showed flashes of greatness at LSU, and with the right coaching and work ethic could grow to be a star.
But the move did not make sense to some, including me. Bulls lacked offense. Specifically in the front court. Aldridge was the better offensively player at the time. But the Bulls took a chance on Tyrus's potential. They fell in love with his athleticism. And were hoping he could grow into the PF the team lacked. He did bring athleticism to a team that lacked it. But could he grow into a basketball player? The Bulls also obtained Khryapa in the trade. A player they felt could be a role player in the future.
The Bulls also feel in love with another player from that draft, Thabo Sefolosha. It was rumored during the draft the Bulls were heavily targeting Thabo. But he wasn't worth the 2nd pick, nor was he likely to fall 16th. Philadelphia ended up drafting Thabo 13th, but the Bulls acted quickly and were able to work out a trade with Philadelphia.
Draft Grade: D
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Rest of Off-Season:
Bulls free agents: Eric Piatkowski, Darius Songalia, Jannero Pargo, Randy Livingston (In no particular order)
Bulls Cap Room: 21 million
2006 Top free agents(age)(last year's stats):
Sam Cassell, 36 - 17.2ppg / 6.3apg
Mike James, 30 - 20.3ppg / 5.8apg
Bonzi Wells, 29 - 13.6ppg / 7.7rpg
Ben Wallace, 32 - 7.3ppg / 11.3rpg
Drew Gooden, 25 - 10.7ppg / 8.4rpg
Al Harrington, 25 - 18.6 ppg / 6.9rpg
Jason Terry, 28 - 17.1 ppg / 41% from 3.
Peja Stojakovic, 28 - 18.2ppg / 40% from 3
July 6, 2006 - Bulls waive Othella Harrington's non guaranteed contract.
July 13, 2006 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Ben Wallace via cap room.
4yrs/60 million
July 14, 2006 - Bulls trade Tyson Chandler to New Orleans/Oklahoma City Hornets for PJ Brown and JR Smith.
Signing/Trade Analysis:
The Bulls decided to move on from Tyson and bring in the veteran, playoff tested, and champion Ben Wallace. The idea was for Ben to be the backbone of the Bulls defense, and to bring in the veteran leadership to a young locker room. The Bulls were built similarly like Detroit, so the Bulls figured it would be a perfect fit. The Bulls also wanted to weaken a team they likely will have to beat to get to the finals in Detroit. Detroit did offer Ben 4yrs/48 million, but the Bulls offered 12 million more an offer Ben could not refuse.
The Bulls liked Tyson but were disappointed in his previous year. The Bulls knew with their younger players rookie contracts ending in the next 2 years, cap room wasn't going to be available to them in the upcoming years. This had to be the year the Bulls make a splash. They saw an opportunity to strengthen their team and weaken another East contending team and acted on it. Also in the deal they obtained PJ Brown, a player they hoped could mentor Tyrus and start while Tyrus grows.
July 20, 2006 - Bulls trade JR Smith to Denver for Howard Eisley, and two 2007 second round picks.
Trade Analysis: JR was very immature at the time. 2 years removed from high school. Right away JR was on Skiles's and management's bad side. The Bulls decided they did not want JR Smith in their locker room.
July 31, 2006 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Adrian Griffin via cap room.
3yrs/4.7million
August 19, 2006 - Bulls trade Eddie Basden to Cleveland for Martynas Andriuskevicius.
Bulls Opening Night Roster:
PG: Kirk Hinrich, Chris Duhon
SG: Ben Gordon, Thabo Sefolosha
SF: Luol Deng, Adrian Griffin
PF: PJ Brown, Andrea Nocioni, Tyrus Thomas
C: Ben Wallace, Mike Sweetney, Martynas Andriuskevicius
Ben Wallace - 16 million
PJ Brown - 8.5 million
Andres Nocioni - 3.9 million
Ben Gordon - 3.8 million
Tyrus Thomas - 3.2 million
Kirk Hinrich - 3.1 million
Chris Duhon - 3 million
Michael Sweetney - 2.6 million
Luol Deng - 2.6 million
Malik Allen - 1.8 million
Thabo Sefolosha - 1.6 million
Adrian Griffin - 1.4 million
Victor Khryapa - 1.1 million
Martynas Andriuskevicius - 664k
Bulls salary = 54 million
Cap Room = (-1) million
Off Season Review:
By far Paxson's busiest off-season and most crucial. Drafting Tyrus was a risk. The Bulls are banking on potential. But worse of all they let a player go who was more of a fit for what their team needed in Aldridge. The Bulls than made a splash in free agency and signed Wallace and traded Tyson.
Wallace was the better player at the time, but also was 32 and in his declining years. Tyson was 24 and entering his prime. If it wasn't for Tyson struggling last year, maybe the Bulls keep him. But he did. The Bulls figured Wallace can help this team now, while Tyson was still learning the NBA game. But it was another risk on the Bulls part.
At the end of the day how the Bulls play this year will determine if the Bulls made the right choice. Will this be the year they get out the 1st round? And if they do can they challenge for a ring?
Off-Season Grade: D+
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2006-07 Season:
November 2, 2006 - Bulls extend Kirk Hinrich through 2012 via bird rights.
4yrs/48million
Analysis:
Kirk Hinrich's first 3 years in the NBA were good. He ran the team effectively while shooting at a decent rate. His defense and toughness was admired by coach Skiles and most fans. Also Hinrich's play rose in the playoffs the past 2 years. Averaging 20 points and a near 7 assist in the postseason. Kirk did everything the Bulls needed from him his first 3 years, and the Bulls saw no reason he can't run the team the next 4 years.
December 11, 2006 - Bulls assign Martynas Andriuskevicius to the D-League.
The Bulls finish 49-33. 3rd in the Central, 4th in the East. First round match up with defending champions Miami Heat.
Game 1: Bulls 96 Heat 91
Game 2: Bulls 107 Heat 89
Game 3: Bulls 92 Heat 79
Game 4: Bulls 92 Heat 79
Bulls win series 4-0
2nd round match up with Detroit Pistons.
Game 1: Bulls 69 Pistons 95
Game 2: Bulls 87 Pistons 108
Game 3: Bulls 74 Pistons 81
Game 4: Bulls 102 Pistons 87
Game 5: Bulls 108 Pistons 92
Game 6: Bulls 85 Pistons 95
Detroit wins series 4-2
2006/07 Season Review/4 year review:
The Bulls did take a step forward. Advancing to the 2nd round for the 1st time since the MJ years. But the Bulls looked out matched at times against Detroit, especially in the first 3 games. The Bulls played better in game 4 and 5. And the Bulls did lead game 6 going into the half, but Detroit turned up their defense and eliminated the Bulls.
Wallace was solid in year 1. The defense improved with Wallace going from allowing 97ppg to 92ppg. Bulls ranked 6th in points allowed, and 2nd in FG%. But one thing was for sure Wallace was slowly declining. And he wasn't getting any better at 32. While Tyson had a good year, way better than his last year. Tyson played well enough to question if the Bulls made the right decision.
Gordon, Hinrich, and Deng had good years. Gordon continued to be one the better scorers in the NBA on or off the bench. Hinrich had a good regular season, but did struggle shooting in the playoffs. And Luol had a break out year. Mainly in the post season against Miami. Luol averaged 26ppg and 9rpg against Miami. And dominated the series. Luol averaged a little under 20 against Detroit. Luol left a lot of people wondering how good can this guy be?
Tyrus struggled in his first year. He didn't get on the court much averaging 13mpg. When Tyrus was strong it was with his help side defense. His ability to protect the rim was encouraging. But offensively Tyrus needed a lot of work. He didn't really have a true position in the NBA. He lacked the strength, post moves, and fundamentals to be an offensive PF at this point. But lacked the ball handling to even consider him at SF. Coach Skiles questioned Tyrus's effort at times. And told Tyrus if he wanted more playing time he had to learn to run the court more, and use his athleticism in the open court. Thabo also barely played. Bulls loved his defense but wanted his shot to to improve for more playing time.
After four years, the Bulls have gained the reputation of a hard nosed defensive team. They would grind and wear you out for 48 minutes. They made the playoffs the last 3 years, and got out the first round once. But the team still struggled to score, and lacked low post presence. Some said the Bulls had to go get a low post scorer, some said they need a go to guy. Whatever the case, the Bulls knew to win a ring this team would need more. Was Tyrus going to develop into that player? Bulls don't have a lot of cap room this off-season, they will have enough to add a piece. But to make a big splash the Bulls will have to get creative.
4 year grade: B
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2007 Off-Season:
Bulls Draft Picks:
9th overall(Swapped 1st round picks with New York in a trade for Eddy Curry)
49th overall(Acquired from Denver in a trade for JR Smith)
51st overall(Acquired from Denver in a trade for JR Smith)
June 28, 2007 - Bulls draft:
Joakim Noah 9th overall
Aaron Gray 49th overall
JamesOn Curry 51st overall.
Other players that were available to them:
Spencer Hawes - 10th overall by Sacramento
Thaddeus Young - 12th overall by Philadelphia
Rodney Stuckey - 15th overall by Detroit
Wilson Chandler - 23rd overally by New York
Draft analysis:
The Bulls needed a front court scorer. Which is why a lot of people at the time thought the Bulls should have drafted Spencer Hawes. But the Bulls instead drafted Joakim Noah. Staying true to their strategy to drafting players from winning programs, Noah had won two national titles at Flordia. The Bulls feel in love with Noah's tenacity for the ball, heart, and effort. They also saw the skill and athleticism Noah possessed. And he was someone who could turn into a good NBA player. Someone who could learn under Ben Wallace and one day take the his place.
Noah was definitely the best player on the board.
Draft Grade: A
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Rest Of Off-Season:
Bulls free agents: PJ Brown, Andres Nocioni, Michael Sweetney, Malik Allen
Bulls cap room: 6 million
July 19, 2007 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Joe Smith via cap room.
July 19, 2007 - Bulls resign Andre Nocioni via bird rights. 5yrs/36million
October 3, 2007 - Bulls sign undrafted free agent Thomas Gardner via minimum player salary exception(non-guaranteed)
Bulls Opening Night Roster:
Head Coach: Scott Skiles
PG: Kirk Hinrich, Chris Duhon
SG: Ben Gordon, Adrian Griffin, Thabo Sefolosha, Thomas Gardner
SF: Luol Deng, Andres Nocioni
PF: Tyrus Thomas, Joe Smith, Victor Kryapa
C: Ben Wallace, Joakim Noah, Aaron Gray
Ben Wallace - 15.5 million
Kirk Hinrich - 11.2 million
Andres Nocioni - 8.5 million
Joe Smith - 5.2 million
Ben Gordon - 4.8 million
Tyrus Thomas - 3.5 million
Luol Deng - 3.5 million
Chris Duhon - 3.2 million
Joakim Noah - 2.1 million
Victor Khryapa - 1.9 million
Thabo Sefolosha - 1.8 million
JamesOn Curry - 427k
Aaron Gray - 427k
Thomas Gardner - 101k
Team Salary = 58 million
Cap Room = (-3) million
Off-Season Review:
The 2007 off-season was the Kobe off-season. Kobe was admittedly unhappy with the Lakers, and Kobe expressed interest in wanting to be traded. And one team on his radar was the Chicago Bulls. Kobe loved their young talent, the way they played and thought he could be the final piece to bring them over the hump. The Bulls and Lakers talked and the biggest hurdle was Luol Deng. Lakers wanted Deng, but Kobe said he would not approve a deal to the Bulls if Deng was traded reportedly. The Bulls also were hesitant to trade Deng,but those close to the Bulls said they would be willing to move Luol if it meant Kobe. But since the Lakers wanted Luol, and Kobe wanted to play with Luol any deal was unlikely. And Paxson came out and put a end to speculation:
"There's not a deal to be done. It's time to put it to rest. Today sends a messege that our guys don't have to worry about anything anymore."
-John Paxson regarding the Kobe trade talks.
The two sides could not find coming ground and NBA insiders reported the two teams never realistically came close to a deal. And realistically they were never going to.
The Bulls were also rumored in the running for Kevin Garnett and Paul Gasol. Both players would have required Deng in any deal. Bulls were not willing to deal Luol for Pau. And according to insiders never had a chance at Garnett. Minnesota wanted Al Jefferson, another big to replace KG. And they got him from Boston.
The rest of the off-season was steady. The Bulls drafted Joakim Noah. They hoped he could develop into their starting center once Wallace was gone. The Bulls were able to bring back Nocioni. They slightly overpaid to keep him but admittedly did not want to lose him. The Bulls signed veteran Joe Smith, the idea was for him to play behind Tyrus. To help Tyrus grow, and if Tyrus was not ready to start the Bulls were comfortable with Smith starting.
But really the Bulls didn't do much this off-season. It was dominated with BIG talk but with little action. With basically the same team going into next year, the only way the Bulls were taking the next step was for two things to happen:
Luol had to built on last year's playoffs and play like an all star.
Tyrus Thomas had to show DRASTIC improvement from his rookie year, and provide the Bulls with productive minutes.
Off-Season Grade: C
Overall Grade: B-
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2007-08 Season
December 8, 2007 - Bulls claim Demetris Nichols off waivers from Cleveland.
December 8, 2007 - Bulls waive Thomas Gardner's non guaranteed deal.
December 24, 2007 - Bulls fire head coach Scott Skiles. Name Pete Myers interim coach.
What happened?
The Bulls were 9-16 when Skiles was fired. But the Bulls were used to slow starts under Skiles.
2004-05: Started 0-9 - Finished 47-35
2005-06: Started 12-17 - Finished 41-41
2006-07: Started 3-9 - Finished 49-33
But this year was different. The team in the past would start slow, but they would compete. The games were close, but this year the Bulls were getting blown out. Out of the 16 loses the Bulls loss by double digits in 12 of them. And by nearly 30 in 2 of them. Coach Skiles in about 5 of the loses REFUSED to even play his starters in the 4th quarter. Saying in post game interviews he was "disgusted" and "fed up" with the level of play from his team. Which led to Skiles being fired on Christmas Eve. But the timing caused some to speculate there was a falling out between Skiles and the front office. Reports coming out saying Paxson did not like that Skiles benched the starters, and that it was an act of giving up. Which is why the team seemed to give up themselves. The Bulls hoped they could still save the season, which is why they acted so early in the season.
December 27, 2007 - Bulls name Jim Boylan interim head coach for the remainder of the season.
Analysis:
The naming of Jim Boylan as interim for the season caused more speculation that there was a definite falling out between Skiles and management and it started this year. Many waited to see if the Bulls had a head coach in mind already, similar to when they fired Bill Cartwright. When that happened it took the Bulls all but two days to hire Skiles. Causing many to believe Cartwright was a lame duck, and Skiles was going to be the head coach sooner or later.
But this time the Bulls had no plan B. Skiles was fired on the spot, with no experienced replacement in mind. The Bulls hired Boylan to interim because of his similarity to Skiles. Skiles brought Boylan to Chicago. The Bulls were still trying to get into the playoffs and they hoped Jim could still run a system similar to Skiles. Ideally they could run similar plays and defensive schemes with little confusion.
February 8, 2008 - Bulls waive Viktor Kryapa.
February 21, 2008 - Bulls trade Ben Wallace, Joe Smith, and a 2009 2nd round pick to Cleveland for Drew Gooden, Shannon Brown, Larry Hughes, and Cedric Simmons. The Bulls also traded Adrian Griffin to the Sonics in this deal.
Analysis:
The white flag trade. The Bulls were 21-32 at the time of the deal. It was obvious even if they somehow made the playoffs, they were not getting out of the first round. Jim Boylan was not able to get the team to play any better. The Bulls decided to trade Ben Wallce for slightly younger players, ending the short Wallace era. It was not all Wallace's fault the Bulls struggled this year, but the Bulls recognized Wallace was only getting older. And this might be the best time to get anything valuable for him.
April 17, 2008 - Bulls fire interim coach Jim Boylan
Analysis:
Short of helping the Bulls make the playoffs, Jim was all but gone when the year finished.
Bulls finish 33-49, 4th in the Central and 11th in East. Missing the playoffs for the first time since 2003-04.
2007-08 Review/My 5 year review:
The worse year under Paxson's watch, not counting his first year. But back then it was acceptable. Bulls had HIGH expectations this year, many picking them to get to the finals at least. But they failed to even make the playoffs. They were still a jump shooting team, but seemed to lose the fight they had the first 3 years under Skiles.
Luol Deng did not built on his great playoff performance. Deng did not have a bad year, he was actually pretty good. But Luol rose expectations of Bulls fans and management, only to not meet them. Luol struggled to score off the dribble consistently, showing to be more of a system player than a go to player. He still played great defense but just did not meet HIGH expectations.
Tyrus barley made any improvement from his rookie year. To be fair Skiles never seemed to like Tyrus, and some reported he never wanted Tyrus. But Tyrus still looked lost offensively, and he still didn't run the floor like coaches wanted. LaMarcus Aldridge was average his rookie year, but in his 2nd year he really improved. Averaging 17 ppg, he showed all the offensive skills the Bulls lacked from a front court player. Raising questions why did we trade that guy?
Thabo started off slow again, but Skiles did not play him a lot. But coach Boylan decided to start Thabo the last 3 months of the season. And Thabo played much better. He looked a lot more comfortable the more experience he got. The Bulls were encouraged with Thabo's finish to the season. One of the few positives from the Boylan era.
Hinrich had his worse year in a Bulls uniform. His did not shoot the ball bad but he did not shoot the ball well either. Hinrich was mainly inconsistent. And some started questioned has Hinrich maxed in potential? And will he start to decline from here?
Noah struggled early in his rookie year. He finished strong, and seemed to be in better shape as the year went along. Some questioned Noah's conditioning earlier in the year. Noah admittedly, "partied like a rock star" in the off-season coming off two national titles. Noah's immaturity came into question during the season, but with Noah's strong finish he was able to quiet most of the critics for the time being.
The Bulls took a BIG step back this year.. The Bulls inability to get a low post scorer and/or a go to scorer cost the Bulls this year. It became apparent the Bulls overachieved the past 3 years. They were a decent team, but lacked anywhere near enough scoring to win consistently. They won on their defense and team play in the past, but their lack of offense caught up to them. The Bulls were to easy too defend. And for some reason Skiles wore out his welcome in the Bulls locker room.
Before the year started the Bulls were considered contenders, but now don't even have a head coach and lack a clear direction moving forward. Paxson's work up to 2006 probably saved his job after this year, and I would agree with that. But Paxon's mistakes in the 2006 off-season have caught up to him this season. Tyson Chandler has thrived in NO, and Aldridge is an all star in the making. Now he has to figure out a way to fix his problem. It starts with finding a head coach, than building from there. If Paxson can't fix it in the next 2 off-seasons, or at least show a clear direction for the team moving forward… It might be time to consider a new direction in management.
Also Gordon and Deng are restricted free agents.
5 Year Grade: D+
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2008 Off-Season
June 11, 2008 - Bulls hire Vinny Del Negro to be head coach.
Analysis:
Del Negro was picked after a LONG dragged out coaching search. The Bulls were without a coach for two months before Vinny was hired. But it wasn't all the Bulls fault.
The Bulls first targeted Mike D'Antoni. The Bulls weakness was offense. Specifically in the half court. The Bulls figured D'Antoni's fast paced offense would benefit their team, with an already solid defensive structure in place. The Bulls reportedly offered 4 years 20 million to coach their team, and D'Antoni and owner Reisndorf were suppose to meet and finalize the deal. But the meeting never happened and Mike D'Antoni shocked the Bulls and agreed to coach the New York Knicks. The Knicks offered 4 million more, but the Bulls never had a chance to try and match the deal.
The Bulls then focused their attention on Doug Collins. Doug was doing broadcast for TNT at the time. Doug had coaching experience and did once coach MJ and the Bulls in the 80's. He last coached MJ and the Wizards. Doug was known as passionate coach, who demanded a lot from his players. They hoped Doug could reinstall a fire and passion in the locker room that was missing from the year before. The Bulls and Doug seemed close to a deal till one day Doug backed out. He and Reinsdorf both agreed it was not a good idea for Doug to take the job. Because of their close friendship both feared when/if the time came, it would be too hard to part ways.
The Bulls almost out of options focused their attention on Vinny Del Negro. Vinny had no coaching experience before, but he was the assistant GM for the Phoenix Suns. The Bulls were definitely thinking outside the box with this hire, they said they liked his ideas and schemes for the young players. They also agreed Vinny was a born leader and would be able to get the most out of his players.
Bulls Draft Picks:
1st overall
39th overall
June 26, 2008 - Bulls draft
Derrick Rose #1 overall
Sonny Weems 39th overall.
June 28, 2008 - Bulls trade the rights to Sonny Weems to the Nuggets, 2009 2nd round pick and 2010 2nd round pick to the Blazers. Blazers trade the rights to Omer Asik to the Chicago Bulls.
Draft/Trade analysis:
In what became Paxson's most critical off-season, Bulls get lucky and win the NBA draft lottery. The Bulls had a .17% chance at winning the #1 pick, but despite all the odds Bulls beat out the Miami Heat for the #1 pick. Which was fitting because many speculated Miami intentionally tanked the previous year to draft Rose. When the Bulls won the lottery, the debate began:
Derrick Rose or Michael Beasley
Both were talented basketball players. But one player filled a glaring need for front court scoring, Michael Beasley. Beasley played center in college but was projected to be a PF/SF in the NBA. And with Tyrus's lack of progression, Beasley would fill a need. Many believed the Bulls should draft Beasley, including Bulls commentator Stacey King.
Rose a Chicago born kid, had a great NCAA tourney. Which sky rocketed his stock past Beasley. Rose's averages rose in the tourney leading his team to the championship, only to fall short. But Rose was a point guard, and the Bulls already had a point guard in Hinrich locked up till 2012. Did it make sense to draft Rose?
The Bulls decided to go with Rose. Why? One reason was maturity. Beasley had character issues, and Rose was the complete opposite. Rose was known for beside his talent, his willingness to learn and work. He was coachable and had great work ethic, opposite of what Beasley was. The Bulls needed Beasley because of his front court scoring, but it wasn't like Rose wasn't talented. The Bulls believed Rose could develop into a star just as much as Beasley and more. Beasley was an undersized PF, and Bulls question his ability to score against NBA front court players. Rose was a good sized point guard, with explosive speed and athleticism. Reports during the draft stated the Bulls decided on Rose weeks before the draft, and were never that high on Beasley's NBA potential.
The Bulls also scouted and loved another player in the draft, Omer Asik. The Bulls hoped he fall to them 39th, but Asik fell 36th to Portland. Asik from Turkey, was known for his rim protection. He was an elite defender and a star in Turkey. The Bulls traded for him, but he would not join the Bulls right away.
Draft Grade: A+
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Rest of Off-Season:
Bulls free agents: Chris Duhon, Shannon Brown, Luol Deng(restricted), Ben Gordon(restricted)
Bulls cap room: About (-1) million
July 31, 2008 - Bulls resign Luol Deng via bird rights. 6yrs/71million
Analysis:
The Bulls realized Luol never met expectations the previous year, but the Bulls also understood he still had value to their team. And he also was arguably their best player the past 4 years. Some argued the Bulls overpaid, but the Bulls still felt Luol could still grow and that we haven't seen Luol's full potential. They also figured with Rose's arrival, he could eventually take pressure off Luol, and Luol would compliment Rose well.
October 2, 2008 - Bulls sign Ben Gordon to qualifying offer. 1yr/6.4million
Analysis:
Ben always made it clear he liked the Bulls but he wanted to be paid. He also stated he wanted to be the highest paid player on the Bulls. His agent's argument was he led the team in scoring every year, and that he should paid like it. The Bulls wanted to keep Gordon, but were never close to the amount Ben wanted. Ben could not find a contract he wanted on the open market either. And opted it was best to come back for another season.
October 27, 2008 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Michael Ruffin via minimum player salary exception. 1yr/1.4 million
Chicago Bulls Opening Night Roster:
PG: Derrick Rose, Kirk Hinich
SG: Ben Gordon, Thabo Sefolosha, Larry Hughes
SF: Luol Deng, Andres Nocioni
PF: Tyrus Thomas, Michael Rufin, Demtetris Nichols, Cedric Simmons
C: Drew Gooden, Aaron Gray
Larry Hughes - 12.8 million
Kirk Hinirch - 10 million
Luol Deng - 9.3 million
Andres Nocioni - 8 million
Drew Gooden - 7.1 million
Ben Gordon - 6.4 million
Derrick Rose - 4.8 million
Tyrus Thomas - 3.7 million
Joakim Noah - 2.2 million
Thabo Sefolosha - 1.9 million
Cedric Simmons - 1.7 million
Aaron Gray - 711k
Demetris Nichols - 427k
Team salary = approx. 69 million
2008-09 salary cap = 58.6 million
Cap room = approx. (-11) million
Off-Season Review:
In some people's eyes it was a make or break off-season. Paxson has done a great job building this team from scratch, but his mistakes the last couple off-seasons caught up to him. And it led to his first losing season since his first year. It started off with finding a coach. It took the Bulls over 50 days to find there guy. And they settled on a guy with NO coaching experience. Which had many shaking their heads but with the understanding Vinny was not their first choice. Or even their 2nd choice.
But head coach was not this team's only issue. They were a team with a bunch of role players who relied on jump shots. With no clear direction, the Bulls got lucky any won the NBA draft lottery. Which led to the drafting of Derrick Rose. Bulls decided Rose was the future of their franchise not Beasley. Many felt though Beasley was a better fit for Chicago, but the Bulls feel in love with not only Rose's talent but his willingness to get better and professionalism.
The Bulls also chose to lock up Deng, and not Gordon. Even though Luol did not meet high expectations in 2007-08, the Bulls still felt he was good enough to be there SF for the next 6 years. They also felt Luol was still growing, and had not reached his full potential. Bulls slightly paid over market value, but with the hope Luol continues to grow and become an all star caliber player.
Bulls liked Gordon and wanted to keep him but never came close to agreeing on a reasonable contract. Bottom line both sides were just too far apart, and it was unlikely the Bulls and Ben would ever reach an agreement. Which led to the question should the Bulls considering trading Ben this upcoming season?
Next year's focus was simple, develop Rose. Find out what pieces on this team work with him and build from there.
Off-Season Grade: A-
Overall Grade: C
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2008-09 Season
November 14, 2008 - Bulls sign Lindsey Hunter via minimum player salary exception. 1yr/1.1 million(722k cap hit)
November 19, 2008 - Bulls waive Demetris Nichols's non guaranteed contract.
February 18, 2009 - Bulls trade Drew Gooden, Andres Nocioni, Michael Ruffin, and Cedric Simmons to the Sacramento Kings for Brad Miller and John Salmons.
Analysis:
Drew Gooden was in a contract year. The Bulls decided to trade him for Brad Miller who they would have under contract for at least one more year. The Bulls were also able to move a big contract in Nocioni while adding more outside scoring in Salmons.
February 19, 2009 - Bulls trade Thabo Sefolosha to Oklahoma City for a conditional pick in 2009.
Analysis:
Jim Boylan started Thabo not too long after he was named interim. And Thabo played well. Going into this year, the Bulls started Thabo next to Rose. But Thabo struggled. He took a step back from his development the year before. He didn't shoot the ball well, and didn't look anywhere near the player from the year before. The Bulls eventually benched Thabo. With a log jam at SG the Bulls decided it was best to trade Thabo, and move on from him.
February 19, 2009 - Bulls trade Larry Hughes to the New York Knicks for Jerome James, Anthony Roberson, and Tim Thomas.
Analysis:
Larry Hughes wasn't happy in Chicago. He wanted more playing time, but the Bulls didn't have room in the rotation for him. Larry requested a trade and it was granted.
March 11, 2009 - Bulls sign Linton Johnson to a 10 day contract.
March 20, 2009 - Bulls sign Linton Johnson via minimum player salary exception.
April 9, 2009 - Bulls sign DeMarcus Nelson via minimum player salary exception.
The Bulls finish 41-41. First round matchup with defending champions Boston Celtics.
Game 1: Bulls 105 Celtics 103
Game 2: Bulls 115 Celtics 118
Game 3: Bulls 87 Celtics 107
Game 4: Bulls 121 Celtics 118
Game 5: Bulls 104 Celtics 106
Game 6: Bulls 128 Celtics 127
Game 7: Bulls 99 Celtics 109
Boston win series 4-3.
2008-09 Season Review/6 year review:
The Bulls were floating around .500 all year till the trade deadline. The trades helped push the Bulls into the playoffs and a first round match up with Boston. Known as the greatest 1st round series ever, the Bulls fell short in 7. The Bulls were without Luol Deng for the series, but Boston was without Kevin Garnett. The series had a total of 7 overtime periods, and had many great moments.
Derrick Rose was good in his first year. Winning rookie of the year, Rose proved all the people wrong who said Beasley was the right choice. Rose showed the quickness and athleticism he showed in college, and showed he would one day develop into a VERY good player.
Luol battled injuries all year, and when healthy struggled. His averages went down, and many blamed Vinny for his struggles. Vinny liked to use Deng in iso situations, the complete opposite of how Skiles used him. Deng looked uncomfortable in Vinny's system, and with injuries it led up to a disappointing year from Luol.
While Luol struggled, Gordon had his best season yet. No doubt making him one of the top free agents this off-season. Hinrich was moved to the bench to back Rose, which seemed to help. Hinrich's shooting % was back up and he became more efficient.
Tyrus Thomas had his best season, but not hard considering his first two were so bad. He worked on his mid range jump shot, which helped his offensive game. He was able to start in 61 games and in the playoffs. But it was clear Tyrus was never going to be the player they thought.
Joakim Noah finished the year sting again, after another slow start. Again Noah's work ethic in the off-season came into question. Reportedly out of shape when camp started. As the season progressed so did Noah. Noah praised Vinny, saying Vinny helped motivate him to become a better player. Noah's game slowly improved throughout the year and Vinny rewarded Noah by starting him despite his early struggles. Noah didn't disappoint by finishing strong and having a great playoff series. Noah said after the series he loved the intensity of the playoffs, and was motivated more than ever to come back stronger. Maybe making the playoffs is what was needed to get Noah more focused during the off-season.
The main questions going into this off-season was Ben Gordon. Do the Bulls resign him? Nationally the 2010 free agent class was getting more attention, and it was assumed the Bulls would want to be a part of it. Signing Gordon to any deal close to what he demanded would take them out of any cap room they wanted open that year. The Bulls were likely to let Gordon walk….
After 5 years, Paxson was beginning to be in the hot seat. Winning the draft lottery was definitely lucky for him. He was able to draft Rose and set a clear direction for the future, and it was Derrick Rose. Lucky or not, Paxson saved his job for now. How he builds around Rose would determine his future from here on out.
6 year grade: C+
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2009 Off-Season
Bulls draft picks:
16th overall
26th overall
The 46th overall pick they would have had was traded in 2008 in the Ben Wallace deal. (Cleveland used the pick to draft Danny Green.)
June 25, 2009 - Bulls draft
James Johnson 16th overall
Taj Gibson 26th overall.
Analysis:
James Johson had a good college career. Slowly improving each year. When the Bulls drafted Johnson they liked his athleticism and body build. He was a big strong guy with athleticism. At college he showed flashes of someone who could score in the NBA. He was strong with both hands, showed nice touch when shooting, and the ability to guard multiple positions. His weaknesses were bad shot selection, plays out of control, does not show NBA range in his shot, and his overall focus on the court. James was talented but needed good coaching to get the most out of him. The Bulls hoped he would mature and be a good piece moving forward.
The Bulls also drafted Taj Gibson. Not highly sought in the draft, the Bulls had their eye on Taj. NBA scouts said he was too small to play PF at a high level in the NBA, they said he had a frail frame, and offensively he was a mess. But the Bulls loved his wing span, which was 7'4. They also liked the idea he played in a pro-styled system at USC under Tim Floyd. So they figured defensively it would be an easy transition for him. And he could help right away.
Draft Grade: C+
__________________________
Rest of Off-Season:
Bulls Free Agents: Ben Gordon, Lindsey Hunter, Linton Johnson, DeMarcus Nelson
Bulls cap room: approx (-6 million)
July 10, 2009 - Bulls sign James Johnson and Taj Gibson to rookie deals.
July 13, 2009 - Bulls sign Lindsey Hunter via minimum player salary exception. 1/1.3million(825k cap hit)
July 14, 2009 - Bulls sign Jannero Pargo via non tax paying exception. 1yr/2million
July 14, 2009 - Bulls waive Tim Thomas.
July 20, 2009 - Bulls waive Anthony Roberson
September 23, 2009 - Bulls sign Aaron Gray via early bird exception. 1yr/1 million
Bulls Opening Night Roster:
Head Coach: Vinny Del Negro
PG: Derrick Rose, Jannero Pargo, Lindsey Hunter
SG: John Salmons, Kirk Hinrich
SF: Luol Deng, James Johnson
PF: Tyrus Thomas, Taj Gibson
C: Joakim Noah, Brad Miller, Aaron Gray, Jerome James
Brad Miller - 12.2 million
Luol Deng - 10.3 million
Kirk Hinrich - 9.5 million
Jerome James - 6.6 million
Tim Thomas - 6.4 million (waived)
Derrick Rose - 5.1 million
Janner Pargo - 2 million
James Johnson - 1.5 million
Lindsey Hunter - 1.3 million (825k cap hit)
Taj Gibson - 1 million
Off-Season Review:
The Bulls were mainly setting themselves up for 2010 free agency. With LeBron and others entering free agency, the Bulls wanted to set themselves up with enough cap room to offer at least one max contract. The Bulls main goal was to acquire expiring contracts this season, so they would have as much cap room open for next off-season.
The Bulls let Ben Gordon walk this off-season. Ben signed a 5 year 58 million offer with Detroit. The Bulls reportedly offered Ben a contract, and they never wanted to lose him. But the Bulls and Ben never came close to an extension. Ben bottom line wanted more money than the Bulls were willing to offer. And really, it worked for the Bulls cause it opened up more money than they thought they would have for 2010.
The Bulls added depth through the draft. James Johnson was more of a project, while Gibson was someone the Bulls hoped can contribute right away.
Off-Season Grade: C+
Overall Grade: C+
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2009-10 Season
January 25, 2010 - Bulls trade Aaron Gray to New Orleans for Devin Brown.
Analysis:
The Bulls had trouble shooting, mainly from behind the arc. Devin Brown a month before the trade made six 3's against the Bulls one night. And it obviously caught the Bulls attention, they traded rarely used Aaron Gray for Devin in hopes he could help with their 3pt%.
February 5, 2010 - Bulls sign Chris Richard to a 10 day contract.
February 15, 2012 Bulls sign Chris Richard to a prorated contract via minimum player salary exception.
February 18, 2010 - Bulls trade Tyrus Thomas to Charlotte Bobcats for Acie Law, Ronald Murray, and a protected future 1st round pick.
February 18, 2010 - Bulls trade John Salmons, 2010 1st round pick, 2011 2nd round pick, and a 2012 2nd round pick to the Milwaukee Bucks for Joe Alexander, Hakim Warrick, and a 2010 1st round pick.
Analysis:
Both moves were products of the Bulls going "all in" in 2010 free agency. The Bulls were obviously not trying win it all this year, and really they had little chance to compete.
The Bulls moved Tyrus to Cha. Tyrus in his time here was a disappointment. He played better the last 1 and half years, and at least proved he could play in the NBA. It allowed the Bulls to sell Tyrus to CHA. And not only convince CHA to take and extend Tyrus, but to give up a protected pick also. Murray and Law's expiring contracts were mainly what the Bulls were after.
The Bulls traded John Salmons to Mil. Salmons had a player option worth approx. 8 million in 2010. The Bulls feared Salmons was more than likely going to accept that option, hurting their cap room this off-season. The Bulls decided to move Salmons, and continue to focus on 2010 free agency. Again, Alexander and Warrick's expiring contracts is what the Bulls were after.
March 3, 2010 - Bulls waive Lindsey Hunter.
April 9, 2010 - Bulls waive Jerome James.
April 9, 2010 - Bulls sign free agent Rob Kurz to a prorated contract via minimum player salary exception.
Bulls finish 41-41. 3rd in the Central, 8th in the East. The Bulls will meet the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first round.
Game 1: Bulls 83 Cavs 96
Game 2: Bulls 102 Cavs 112
Game 3: Bulls 108 Cavs 106
Game 4: Bulls 98 Cavs 121
Game 5: Bulls 94 Cavs 96
Cleveland wins series 4-1.
2009-10 Season Review/7 year review:
Bulls lose in the 1st round again, but to little surprise. The Bulls focused all their moves to open up cap room for 2010. And as of right now the Bulls have enough to offer 1 max contract, and enough to fill other needs. The Bulls did everything right up to this point, to be players in free agency this off-season.
Rookie Taj Gibson was solid. Starting in 70 games, Taj proved to be a steal. His transition to the NBA was fast, and he was rewarded the starting job when Tyrus broke his arm, and eventually traded away.
James Johnson struggled, he wasn't in great shape to start the year. And never found consistent minutes in Vinny's rotation.
Noah made on his promise to come back stronger, he averaged a double double and had his best year in the NBA. Joakim's progress was encouraging, and it was clear Joakim was starting to mature.
Derrick Rose took the next step, making the all star team for the first time. He led the Bulls in scoring and assist and proved to be a superstar in the making.
This off-season was big for the Bulls and Paxson. This was going to determine how good the Bulls would be in the next 5 years. They had a rising star in Rose and had to figure out how to build around him. The Bulls were obviously targeting LeBron, and were going to do anything they could to get him in a Bulls uniform.
7 year grade: C+
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2010 Off-Season
May 4, 2010 - Bulls fire head coach Vinny Del Negro.
Analysis:
It's fair to say the Bulls took a chance on Vinny. They missed out on the two guys they wanted and they settled with Vinny. Vinny did good in Chicago. Noah matured under Vinny, and Vinny gave Noah the chance to start. Noah credited Vinny with helping him "grow up" and be a professional athlete. Vinny also coached the Bulls to the playoffs twice.
But Vinny had weaknesses. And it was mainly game management and strategy. Many felt the Bulls were out coached in a lot of games. Vinny was a good motivator, his players played hard for him. But Vinny's X and O's were not good, NBA scouts described the Bulls as "basic" and "predictable". In the end Vinny was not a long term fit in Chicago, and his firing was expected.
June 23, 2010 - Bulls hire Tom Thibodeau to be head coach.
Analysis:
The Bulls targeted Thibbs, and waited till Boston was eliminated to talk with him. The Bulls loved Boston's defense and Thibb's defensive philosophies. And why not, Thibb's defense help lead Boston to two finals and a ring. And Boston players credited Thibb's being the reason their D was so good.
Thibodeau known around the league has a NBA nerd. He watched endless film and worked endless hours. His life was basketball and his love was basketball. The Bulls felt Tom could establish the Bulls as a great defensive hard working team, with a rising star in Derrick Rose.
Bulls draft picks:
17th overall( Bulls swapped 2010 1st round picks with Mil in the John Salmons trade.)
The 15th pick they originally had was used to draft Larry Sanders by Milwaukee.
The 44th pick they originally had was used to draft Jerome Jordan by Milwaukee. The pick was acquired from Portland via GS in the Omer Asik trade back in 2008.
June 24, 2010 - Bulls draft Kevin Seraphin 17th overall.
June 24, 2010 - Bulls trade the rights to Kevin Seraphin along with Kirk Hinrich to Washington for Vladimir Veremeenko and a trade exception.
Draft/Trade Analysis:
The final move in clearing cap space for free agency. The Bulls wanted to keep Kirk but needed to move his contract to free up enough space to offer two max contracts this free agency. The Bulls drafted Seraphin with the intention in moving him. The Bulls acquired Veremeenko who currently plays overseas. After this trade the Bulls were ready to make their play in 2010 free agency.
Draft grade: INC (Bulls used draft to clear more space for free agency)
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Rest of Off-Season:
Bulls free agents: Rob Kurz, Joe Alexander, Hakim Warrick, Ronald Murray, Acie Law, Devin Brown, Brad Miller, Jerome James, Jannero Pargo
Bulls cap room: Approx. 37 million
2010 NBA Key Free Agents(along with 2009-10 stats:
Amar'e Stoudemire: 23.1ppg / 8.2 rpg
David Lee: 20.2 ppg / 11.7 rpg
LeBron James: 29.7 ppg / 8.6 apg / 7.3 rpg
Dwyane Wade: 26.6 ppg / 6.5 apg
Chris Bosh: 24 ppg / 10.8 rpg
Carlos Boozer: 19.5 ppg / 11.2 rpg
Joe Johnson: 21.3 ppg / 5 apg
July 5, 2010 - Phoenix Suns sign and trade Amar'e Stoudemire to the New York Knicks for a 2012 protected second round pick and trade exception.
5yrs/99.7million
July 8, 2010 - Atlanta Hawks resign Joe Johnson via bird rights. 6yrs/123.6million
July 8, 2010 - New York Knicks sign and trade David Lee to the Golden State Warriors for Kelenna Azubuike, Anthony Randolph, Ronny Turiaf, and a 2012 2nd round pick. 6yrs/79.5million
July 8, 2010 - Miami Heat resign Dwyane Wade via bird rights. 6yrs/107.5million
July 8, 2010 - Toronto Raptors sign and trade Chris Bosh to Miami for two 2011 first round picks and a trade exception. 6yrs/109.8million
July 8, 2010 - Utah Jazz sign and trade Carlos Boozer along with a 2nd round pick to the Chicago Bulls for a trade exception. 5yrs/75 million
July 9, 2010 - Cleveland Cavaliers sign and trade LeBron James to Miami Heat for a 2011 2nd round pick, 2012 2nd round pick, two future 1st round picks, and a trade exception. 6yrs/109.8million
2010 free agency analysis:
The Bulls main target was LeBron James. The Bulls were competing with the Knicks, Clippers, Cavs, Heat, and the Nets. James met with all teams on separate dates. The Bulls knew to get LeBron James they had to add another all star to the roster. Derrick Rose was not going to be enough for LeBron to come, although he was a rising star Rose still had not yet establish himself as a superstar in the NBA.
The Bulls main target outside of LeBron was Chris Bosh. The Bulls made it clear to Bosh they wanted him to come to Chicago and help bring LeBron with him. The Bulls held two interviews with Chris Bosh, and one of those interviews Wade joined him. The Bulls targeted Wade, but Wade was looked at has a 2nd option if LeBron didn't join Chicago. Bulls also held two interviews with Wade.
But on July 8, 2010 Wade announced on sportscaster he was returning to Miami. Stating Miami was his family and he did not want to leave. Wade did say Chicago was his next choice and it was hard to turn them down but he did not want to upset his fans in Miami. Also in the same interview Bosh announced he would join Wade in Miami.
So now the Bulls had to go to plan B. The Bulls had to add at least one more all star if they wanted any chance of convincing LeBron to come to Chicago. Boozer was one of the last remaining all star free agents outside of LeBron, who said he would announce his decision on July 9th. The Bulls decided to sign Boozer in hopes Rose/Boozer would convince LeBron to come to Chicago.
Going into the decision the Bulls and Heat were rumored among the favorites to get LeBron. Miami being rumored to be the favorite from many insiders. LeBron had to decide which line up was better:
Rose
Deng
LeBron
Boozer
Noah
or
Chalmers
Wade
LeBron
Bosh
Anthony
The Bulls did EVERYTHING they could to get LeBron. But in the end LeBron chose Wade/Bosh over Rose/Boozer. Disappointing many Bulls fans across the nation.
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Rest of Off-Season:
July 8, 2010 - Bulls sign and trade Hakim Warrick to the Phoenix Suns for a 2011 2nd round pick. 4yrs/16million
July 10, 2010 - Bulls offer restricted free agent JJ Reddick a contract. JJ accepts contract but Orlando matches offer. 3yrs/20million
July 12, 2010 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Kyle Korver via cap room.
3yrs/15million
July 12, 2010 - Bulls buyout unsigned draft pick Omer Asik from Turkish team and sign to a two year deal via cap room. 2yrs/3million
July 19, 2010 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Ronnie Brewer via cap room.
3yrs/14million.
July 21, 2010 - Golden State Warriors sign and trade CJ Watson to Chicago for a future 2nd round pick. 3yrs/9million
July 26, 2010 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Kurt Thomas via minimum player salary exception.
August 11, 2010 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Keith Bogans via cap room.
1yr/1.6million
September 27, 2010 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Brian Scalabrine via minimum player salary exception. 1yr/1.2million
October 4, 2010 - Bulls extend Joakim Noah through 2016 via bird rights.
5yrs/60million
Analysis:
Noah has established himself as one of the better centers in the NBA. Maybe not the best but you can't get much better. It was obvious to the Bulls Noah has matured, and they did not fear giving him an extension. They knew Noah would continue to work hard and give the Bulls all he had.
Bulls Opening Night Roster:
Head Coach: Tom Thibodeau
PG: Derrick Rose, CJ Watson
SG: Ronnie Brewer, Kyle Korver, Keith Bogans
SF: Luol Deng, James Johnson
PF: Carlos Boozer, Taj Gibson, Brian Scalabrine.
C: Joakim Noah, Kurt Thomas, Omer Asik
Carlos Boozer: 14.4 million
Luol Deng: 11.3 million
Derrick Rose: 5.5 million
Kyle Korver: 5 million
Ronnie Brewer: 4.7 million
Joakim Noah: 3.1 million
CJ Watson: 3.1 million
Omer Asik: 1.7 million
Keith Bogans: 1.6 million
Kurt Thomas: 1.3 million (854k cap hit)
Brian Scalabrine: 1.2 million (854k cap hit)
Taj Gibson: 1.1 million
Off-Season Review:
The Bulls missing on LeBron James was the biggest headline of this off-season. The Bulls took a chance and went all in this off-season. They did everything they could to get LeBron, but in the end LeBron chose Miami. Some argued LeBron/Wade/Bosh planned all along to join each other, but either way the Bulls tried and failed.
In plan B, the Bulls decided to build a solid deep team around the core of Rose/Deng/Boozer/Noah. They went 2 deep at every position, making them one of the more deeper teams in the NBA.
Even though the Bulls missed out on the big free agent, they still put together a really good team. They had a new defensive philosophy with coach Thibb's and a new identity. The following year was all about Derrick Rose. It was Rose's third year, would this be the year Rose breaks out?
If the Bulls were going to have success next season, Rose would have to take the next step and become a star.
Off-Season Grade: B-
Overall grade: B-
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2010-11 Season
November 26, 2010 - Bulls sign John Lucas via minimum player salary exception. Contract non-guaranteed.
January 4, 2011 - Bulls waive John Lucas.
February 22, 2011- Bulls trade James Johnson to Toronto for a 1st round pick(via Miami from Bosh trade).
Analysis:
The trade admits the Bulls feel they made a mistake with Johnson. They decided to move on and were able to at least get a 1st round pick for him.
March 3, 2011 - Bulls sign Rasual Butler to a prorated contract via minimum player salary exception.
March 21, 2011 - Bulls sign John Lucas and Jannero Pargo to a prorated contract via minimum player salary exception.
Bulls finish 62-20, 1st in the Central and 1st in the East. Bulls will meet the Indiana Pacers in the 1st round.
Game 1: Bulls 104 Pacers 99
Game 2: Bulls 96 Pacers 90
Game 3: Bulls 88 Pacers 84
Game 4: Bulls 84 Pacers 89
Game 5: Bulls 116 Pacers 89
Chicago wins series 4-1
Bulls will meet the Atlanta Hawks in the 2nd round.
Game 1: Bulls 95 Hawks 103
Game 2: Bulls 86 Hawks 73
Game 3: Bulls 99 Hawks 82
Game 4: Bulls 88 Hawks 100
Game 5: Bulls 95 Hawks 83
Game 6: Bulls 93 Hawks 73
Chicago wins series 4-2
Bulls will meet Miami in the 3rd round
Game 1: Bulls 103 Heat 82
Game 2: Bulls 75 Heat 85
Game 3: Bulls 85 Heat 96
Game 4: Bulls 93 Heat 101
Game 5: Bulls 80 Heat 83
Miami wins series 4-1
2010-11 Season in review/8 year review:
The Bulls missed out on LeBron, but still finished the year with the best record in the NBA. They built a deep team around DRose, and Rose had his best year yet. Starting in the all-star game and winning MVP of the 10-11 season. The year started off weird when Boozer broke his hand by tripping over a gym bag. Boozer missed all of training camp, preseason, and the 1st month of the season. The Bulls were 9-6 without Boozer to start.
Boozer was awesome in his first two months as a Bull. He averaged 20-10 in his first two months. Him and Rose played well together. Boozer hurt his ankle in January and was never the same since. He struggled the rest of the year.
In the first round the Bulls were able to beat Indiana. But every game was close but game 5. The Bulls half court offense struggled, but Rose ended up being the difference in the series. Rose averaged 27 ppg along with 6 apg.
In the next round Bulls met Atlanta, Bulls loss the first game. But in the end Rose proved to be the difference again. Rose averaged 29 ppg in the Atlanta series. He scored 44 points in game 3, and Boozer helped win game 6 scoring 23 points with 10 rebounds.
Next round was an interesting one. The Bulls would play the Miami Heat. It was the Bulls plan A of the off-season against their plan B. Would plan B be better than plan A? In the first game it looked like it. The Bulls killed Miami in game 1, Rose scored 28 points as the Bulls beat Miami. But Rose would really struggled in the next 4 games. Rose shot the ball below 40% in the next 4 games. As Miami focused their defense and made Rose a jump shooter. Rose didn't get much help from his teammates either, as Noah, Boozer, and Korver really struggled in the series also. Miami proved to be too much as they beat the Bulls in 5. Plan A > Plan B
8 year review:
The Bulls were finally back to being to being competitive. They had a team that could compete with anybody, and had one of the top players in the world. But in this city, championship or bust is the mentality. Paxson has not yet build a championship team. But the team he has built to this point is close, but missing a few pieces. Mainly a SG.
The Bulls know to take the next step they need to pair Rose with a SG teams have to respect. They need to give Rose more scoring help. At times in the playoffs if Rose didn't have a GREAT game the Bulls were going to struggle. Rose basically had to score 25-30 points a night, and for a PG that is asking too much. If the Bulls were going to take the next step they needed to figure out a way to get more balance on offense.
8 year grade: B
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2011 Off-Season
Bulls draft picks:
28th overall (Acquired pick in James Johnson trade)
30th overall
43rd overall (Acquired pick in the Carlos Boozer trade)
The 44th pick they would have had was traded in the CJ Watson deal. The Warriors used the pick to draft Charles Jenkins.
The 60th pick they would have had was traded in the John Salmons deal. Mil traded the pick to Sac. Sacramento used the pick to draft Isaiah Thomas.
June 23, 2011- Bulls draft
Noris Cole 28th overall
Jimmy Butler 30th overall
Malcolm Lee 43rd overall.
June 23, 2011 - Bulls trade the rights to Noris Cole, Malcolm Lee, and cash to Minnesota for the rights to Nikola Mirotic.
Draft/Trade Analysis:
The Bulls targeted two players in this draft, Mirotic and Butler. The Bulls knew Mirotic was unlikely to fall to them 28th, so the Bulls drafted Noris Cole to be traded, a long with Malcolm Lee in the 2nd round. The Bulls traded for Mirotic on potential. Knowing he would not be able to join the team right away. Some projected Mirotic has a lottery pick in a future draft, the Bulls decided to get him now, and be patient. Similar to Asik.
The Bulls also drafted Jimmy Butler. Falling in love with his athleticism and maturity, the Bulls felt like they got a steal in this draft. But with a lockout coming up and with no summer league, the Bulls plan was to bring him along slowly next season. Well if there is a next season……..
Draft Grade: A-
LOCKOUT til December.
________________________________
Rest of off-season:
Bulls free agents: Keith Bogans, Kurt Thomas, Brian Scalabrine, John Lucas, Rasual Butler, Jannero Pargo
Bulls cap room: approx. (-3) million
December 13, 2011- Bulls resign Brian Scalabrine via minimum player salary exception. 1/1.3 million(854k cap hit)
December 14, 2011 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Richard Hamilton via non-tax paying exception. 3yrs/15million
Other free agent guards
Ray Allen - resigned with Boston
Marco Belineli(RFA) - Stayed with NO
Shannon Brown - Signed with Suns 1yr/3.5 million
Jamal Crawford - Signed with Portland 1yr/5 million
Mike Dunleavy - Signed with Milwaukee 2yrs/7million
Tracey McGrady - Signed with Hawks 1yr/minimum
Michael Redd - Signed with Suns 1yr/minimum
Jason Richardson - Resigned with Magic 4yrs/24million
Nick Young - Sings with 76ers 1yr/3.6 million
Analysis:
Bulls needed a SG. The Bulls decided on Richard Hamilton. Hamilton was in the dog house the last couple years in Detroit. The Pistons signing of Ben Gordon caused a log jam at SG 2 years ago. Detroit wanting to go younger, did not play Hamilton at the minutes he desired. Hamilton battled injuries, but for the most part was healthy. Lack of playing time came from poor coaching, and roster built with too many SGs. Hamilton expressed his unhappiness with Detroit's lack of direction lately, and wanted out. Detroit bought out Hamilton after the lockout ended, giving him his wish.
The Bulls took a chance on Hamilton. But for a guy who has not played over 50 games since the 2008-09 season, would Hamilton's body be able to handle not only starters minutes, but could he be on the court enough? The Bulls figured with Rose, Hamilton would be able to roam free with little attention. The Bulls figured Hamilton could provide more than what Bogans did last year, and it was an upgrade from the previous year.
December 22, 2012 - Bulls extend Derrick Rose through 2017 via bird rights.
5yrs/95million
Analysis:
The Bulls decided to give their MVP a max contract. And deservingly so. But the new CBA threw a wrench in the Bulls plans. Under the old CBA, the Bulls would only have to pay Rose 25% of their team salary. But under the new CBA, the NBA added the "Derrick Rose rule".
Rose's quick rise in the NBA was rare. Rose was the youngest MVP ever. His play caused debate during the lockout, shouldn't he get more than the 25% max?
Under the old rules, for a 3 year player, the max they could receive is 25% of the team's salary. But under the new rules, if the player was:
Named to the All-NBA First, Second, or Third team at least twice
or
Voted as a starter in the All-Star game at least twice
or
Named the NBA MVP at least once
That player would meet the "5th year 30% Max criteria. And the team would have to pay 30% of their salary cap to the player.
The rule forced the Bulls to pay Rose apporx. 5 million more than they had planned. Hurting the team's cap even more.
The following players qualified for this extension:
Derrick Rose
Blake Griffin
James Harden
December 22, 2011 - Bulls sign John Lucas via minimum player salary exception.
Bulls Opening Night Roster
PG: Derrick Rose, CJ Watson, John Lucas
SG: Richard Hamilton, Ronnie Brewer
SF: Luol Deng, Klye Korver, Jimmy Butler
PF: Carlos Boozer, Taj Gibson, Brian Scalabrine
C: Joakim Noah, Omer Asik
Carlos Boozer: 13.5 million
Luol Deng: 12.3 million
Joakim Noah: 12 million
Derrick Rose: 6.9 million
Richard Hamilton: 5 million
Kyle Korver: 5 million
Ronnie Brewer: 4.7 million
CJ Watson: 3.4 million
Omer Asik: 1.8 million
Brian Scalabrine: 1.3 million (854k cap hit)
Taj Gibson: 1.1 million
Jimmy Butler: 1 million
John Lucas: 915k (854k cap hit)
Off-Season Review:
The Bulls had a good draft. But the main concern of the off-season was finding a SG to pair with Rose. SG was the glaring weakness of the team. Many felt they needed to add another scorer. A player who could create scoring opportunities without a play having to be called for them.
The Bulls went with Richard Hamilton. Not known as a scorer, but more of a system player. A player who would run off a screens for his shot. It was an upgrade over Bogans, but was Hamilton the answer? He has not played a lot over the past 3 years. Would his body be able to handle starters minutes in a lockout year?
Off-Season Grade: C-
Overall Grade B-
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2011-12 Season:
February 14, 2012 - Bulls sign Mike James to a 10 day contract.
March 14, 2012 - Bulls sign Mike James to another 10 day contract.
April 5, 2012 - Bulls sign Mike James to a prorated contract via minimum player salary exception.
The Bulls finish the year 50-16, 1st in the Central and East. The Bulls will meet the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round.
Game 1: Bulls 103 76ers 91
Game 2: Bulls 92 76ers 109
Game 3: Bulls 74 76ers 79
Game 4: Bulls 82 76ers 89
Game 5: Bulls 77 76ers 69
Game 6: Bulls 78 76ers 79
Philadelphia wins series 4-2.
2011-12 Season in review/9 year review:
Rose battled injuries all through the year. And suffered his worst one in the playoffs. Tearing his ACL in game 1. As soon as that happened any Bulls chance at a ring was thrown out the window. Noah also hurt his ankle in game 3, and the Bulls just didn't have enough to beat Philly. Not that it mattered. Rose going down ended any chance moving forward. It turned into what could have been into, now what?
The signing of Richard Hamilton didn't prove to be a success, but didn't prove to be a failure either. RIP didn't play that much in the regular season, but RIP was signed for a playoff run, not the regular season. He was also signed to play with Rose.
Which he never got the chance to do really. But RIP showed he was on the decline, and the Bulls maybe been better off going else where. But would it have mattered?
Cause in the end Rose tore his ACL, and no matter how good RIP played it wasn't going to lead the Bulls to a ring.
The Bulls seemed to play better from the year before. The team's assist totals went up. Rose when healthy showed more of a willingness to pass the ball. The team in general shared the ball better. It seemed every one was more comfortable in the system, and understood where to be. Leaving many wondering could the Bulls have beat the Heat? Miami had trouble beating the Celtics in the ECF, Boston took Miami to 7 games and even led the series 3-2.. The Bulls were better than that Boston team, but too bad we will never know.
With the teams best player out till at least 2013, what would the off-season bring. Could the Bulls really expect to contend for a title without Rose for most of the year. Also should Rose even play next year? Is it better he just sit out the year? And what about the bench mob? Do you bring them back, or start to rebuild the bench?
9 year grade: B-
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2012 Off-Season
Bulls draft picks:
29th overall
The 60th pick they would have had was traded in the John Salmons trade back in 2010. Mil traded the pick to Brooklyn who traded it to the LAL. The Lakers used the pick to draft Robert Sacre.
June 28, 2012 - Bulls draft:
Marquis Teague 29th overall.
Analysis:
The Bulls drafted Teague with their only pick. Teague was drafted on potential not need. The Bulls did need a PG with Rose out, but it was assumed the Bulls were going to address that in free agency. And really Teague was more of a project, than NBA ready. Teague was projected to go higher, but fell to the Bulls 29th. Surprised, the Bulls decided to take the best player on the boards in their eyes. They figured Marquis would need more time to groom, but are banking on his potential in the near future. Teague is athletic, 40 inch vertical at draft combine, and extremely fast with the ball. But he is really young, and still has a lot to learn. Especially at the NBA level.
Draft Grade: C+
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Rest of Off-Season
Bulls free agents: Brian Scalabrine, John Lucas
CJ Watson, Ronnie Brewer and Korver have non-guaranteed deals.
Bulls cap room: approx. (-10) million
July 13, 2012 - Bulls waive Ronnie Brewer's non guaranteed contract worth 4.7 million.
Analysis:
The Bulls felt Jimmy Butler could replace Brewer's production. The Bulls also saved 3.7 million off their salary by replacing Brewer with Butler.
July 13, 2012 - Bulls waive CJ Watson's non-guaranteed deal worth 3.7 million
Analysis:
CJ more of a score first point guard was not in the teams plans for next year. The Bulls were looking for a point guard more focused on running the offense with Rose out most of they year. That was not CJ's strength. CJ's strength was his shooting. Also with the rumor the Bulls have verbally agreed to a deal with Kirk Hinrich, Watson's time in Chicago was done.
July 16, 2012 - Bulls trade Kyle Korver to Atlanta for a trade exception an cash.
Analysis:
The Bulls have decided to revamp their bench. Or mainly go cheaper. Korver/Brewer/Watson combined would have cost the Bulls around 12 million to keep. Bulls felt going into a year without Rose for most of it and possibly all of it, that was too much money coming off the bench. Also the Bulls felt they would be able to replace them with cheaper options, and not lose their production. The trade also prevented the Bulls to having to pay Korver 1 million to release him.
July 19, 2012 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Vladmir Radmanovic via minimum player salary exception.
July 20, 2012 - Houston Rockets offer Bulls restricted free agent Omer Asik contract. 3yrs/25million
Analysis:
Omer Asik entered this free agency has a restricted free agent. Meaning any contract he is offered, could be matched by the Bulls. But there was a problem. The Bulls did not own Asik's bird rights.
What are bird rights?
Bird rights are what allows teams to resign their own players over the cap. Bird rights are obtained when the player plays 3 years with the same team. When a player is traded his bird rights are traded with him.
Asik only played two years with the Bulls. Meaning the Bulls could only offer the MLE to resign Asik. Houston offered Asik a 3 year 25 million dollar contract. 8 million for each year. The Bulls technically could not match Houston's offer under the rules of the CBA. But in 2005, the NBA fixed this problem when Washington offered Gilbert Arenas a contract GS could not match. If the Bulls decided to match, the Bulls cap hit for Asik would be 5 million(MLE) the first two years. Then in the 3rd year rise to15 million. Also Asik's trade value would unlikely rise in Chicago, cause he would play behind Noah. So his production would never show his full potential.
The Bulls decided it was best to let Asik walk. Seeing how Asik's 15 million cap hit would kill the Bulls chances at upgrading the team via cap room in 2014 free agency. And it would be even harder to trade Asik, when he only plays 15mpg, and get a fair deal in return.
July 24, 2012 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Kirk Hinich via non tax paying exception. 2yrs/8million
Analysis:
It was reported the Bulls verbally agreed to a contract with Hinrich earlier in the off-season, but the deal could not be done till now. The Bulls had to shed their salary of Brewer, Korver and Watson's contracts before they could officially sign Kirk. Reason being with those 3 contracts they were in the tax, and in order to offer the MLE you can not be in the tax.
The Bulls signed Kirk to replace Rose temporally and when Rose returns to back up Rose. The Bulls always liked Hinrich and didn't want to part ways with him. They only did so as a salary cap move in 2010.
Hinrich struggled with injuries in his years with Atlanta, but played well in his short time in Washington. But with Wall he did not fit in their long term plans. Questioning why they even traded for him? But anyway, the Bulls felt Hinrich would fit in with the current team. He was perfect for Thibb's defensive minded attitude. Also he would be comfortable playing in Chicago, and with former teammates.
July 24, 2012 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Marco Belinelli via bi-annual exception.
Analysis:
The Bulls signed Marco to help replace Korver. Korver might be a better pure shooter than Marco, but Marco wasn't just a stand still shooter. Marco had the ability to drive and finish something Korver could never do. Marco could handle the ball, something Korver was not comfortable with. The Bulls also saved 3.1 million with Marco over Korver, and also felt like they upgraded with Marco's ability.
July 27, 2012 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Nazr Mohammed via minimum player salary exception.
July 31, 2012 - Bulls sign unrestricted free agent Nate Robinson via minimum player salary exception.
Analysis:
Coach Thibodeau reportedly wanted the Bulls to sign Nate. Nate played for Thibb's in Boston. The Bulls signed Nate after they saw Marquis play in summer league. Teague really struggled in summer league, which many believe caused the Bulls to sign Nate. Nate would back up Hinrich till Rose came back. Thibodeau was also comfortable with starting Nate in case Hinrich went down.
October 1, 2012 - Bulls verbally agree to extend Tom Thibodeau through 2016-17.
Opening Night Roster:
PG: Derrick Rose(Out indefinitely), Kirk Hinrich, Nate Robinson, Marquis Teague
SG: Richard Hamilton, Marco Belineli
SF: Luol Deng, Jimmy Butler
PF: Carlos Boozer, Taj Gibson, Vladimir Radmanovic
C: Joakim Noah, Nazr Mohammed
Derrick Rose: 16.4 million
Carlos Boozer: 15 million
Luol Deng: 13.3 million
Joakim Noah: 11.3 million
Richard Hamilton: 5 million
Kirk Hinrich: 3.9 million
Taj Gibson: 2.1 million
Marco Belinelli: 1.9 million
Nazr Mohammed: 1.3 million(854k cap hit)
Vladimir Radmanovic: 1.3 million(854k cap hit)
Nate Robinson: 1.1 million (854k cap hit)
Jimmy Butler: 1 million
Marquis Teague: 1 million
Team Salary: approx. 73.6 million (74.3 Hard Cap)
Cap Room: approx. (-17 million)
Luxury Tax: 70.3 million
Tax Hit: approx. 3.3 million
Off-Season Review:
The Bulls said in the off-season they would make "basketball decisions". But pretty clearly made "financial decisions". With Rose out for most of the year, the Bulls chances at winning a ring were slim. The Bulls got rid of Korver, Watson, Brewer and replaced them with Hinrich, Butler, Belineli. Those moves saved them 6.6 million. Which would have been 6.6 million extra in tax money. There was no way ownership would let that happen. Ownership knew with Rose's raise they likely were going to be in the tax regardless. The idea was to pay as little tax as they could. But the Bulls still felt they didn't lose much in production with the moves, and possibly even upgraded depending on Butler's development.
The Bulls lost Asik to the Rockets, which they knew would hurt. But as I explained earlier, the Bulls just felt it made more sense to not match seeing how matching would hurt them more than help in the future. The Bulls signed the veteran Nazr Mohammed in hopes he could replace some of what Asik brought in his 15 minutes off the bench for the Bulls.
Rumored on the move was Luol Deng all off-season. Reportedly the Bulls and the Warriors were in discussion. In the end GS felt it was best to keep their picks, and the Bulls denied the rumors were even true. But it would have made sense in the Bulls efforts to go "cheaper". Maybe the rumors were true…
But anyhow, the Bulls clearly didn't have high hopes for the upcoming season. They were in a sense just rolling the dice and seeing how far this team could go. They still wanted the team to compete and try hard. Some said they should have tanked, but with this Bulls roster it would have been near impossible to tank. They were good enough to at least make the playoffs. And obviously it doesn't make "business" sense to throw a season away, so that idea just wasn't happening. The Bulls expect to compete, but their main focus is on Rose. And getting him back to the MVP level they will need him to be at to win in the future.
Off-Season Grade: B
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2012-13 Season
October 31, 2012 - Bulls extend Taj Gibson through 2016-17. 4rys/33million
Analysis:
The Bulls did not want Taj to hit restricted free agency. Which he was due to after this season. Taj's extension kicks in next year.
January 6, 2013 - Bulls sign DeQuan Cook to a prorated contract via minimum player salary exception.
March 2, 2013 - Bulls sign Lou Amundson to a 10 day contract.
March 19, 2013 - Bulls sign Malcolm Thomas to a 10 day contract.
April 8, 2013 - Bulls sign Malcolm Thomas to a prorated contract via minimum player salary exception.
The Bulls finish 45-37 2nd in the Central, 5th in the East. They will meet the Brooklyn Nets in the first round.
Game 1: Bulls 89 Nets 106
Game 2: Bulls 90 Nets 82
Game 3: Bulls 79 Nets 76
Game 4: Bulls 142 Nets 134
Game 5: Bulls 91 Nets 110
Game 6: Bulls 92 Nets 95
Game 7: Bulls 99 Nets 93
Chicago wins series 4-3. Will meet defending champion Miami Heat in 2nd round.
Game 1: Bulls 93 Heat 86
Game 2: Bulls 78 Heat 115
Game 3: Bulls 94 Heat 104
Game 4: Bulls 65 Heat 88
Game 5: Bulls 91 Heat 94
Miami wins series 4-1.
2012-13 Season in Review:
Going into the year as a "wash", the Bulls accomplished a lot. They battled injuries all year to every part of their team. Still made the playoffs and were even able to win a series with their starting center playing limited minutes the first 3 games. And with their starting PG and SF missing the last two.
Jimmy Butler emerged as a steal in 2012's draft. He got better and better with more playing time. Belineli played well and brought a different dynamic to the team than what Korver brought. He was able to put the ball on the floor and score.
Nate Robinson also proved to be a steal in free agency, and was a big part of the Bulls success this season.
But the dominate headline was Derrick Rose. Rose was cleared to play in late February but claimed he was not mentally ready to play. Causing fans to take sides. Some with Rose some against. Bottom line was the Bulls are only as good as Rose is, and without him the Bulls were just a good team. Not great or contenders.
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My quick 10 year review:
The bottom line is this. Paxson did a GREAT job up to the 2006 off-season. The trading of Tyrus and singing of Wallace ended up being big mistakes. Which caused the Bulls big in 2007.
The Bulls did get lucky with the Rose pick, but still made to right choice over Beasley. Some say if they didn't get that pick where would they be? Well they did get that pick and made the right choice with it… Anyone can speculate what would have happened but all I know is what happened.
The Bulls eventually focused their attention on LeBron. And rightfully so. LeBron was the best player in the NBA, the Bulls be stupid not to go after him. They did everything they could but in the end could not make LeBron sign with them.
The Bulls plan B did get them the best record but only to fall short to the team that had their plan A.
The following year the Bulls had the best record again only to see their best player tear his ACL. And then this year was merely a wash….
Has Paxson done a good enough job to keep his job?
I say yes. The Bulls only had two losing seasons under Paxson. And this team can not be judged on the past 2 years. Without Rose this team is just not good enough to win a ring. Who knows what would have happened last year or this year…
To me how Paxson handles the next two years determines his fate. The core of Rose/Luoul/Boozer/Noah can only last so long. How he builds around Rose in the upcoming off-seasons will determine if Paxson keeps his job…
But special as in handicapped? 