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Beasley's Dominance Punctuates First Day of Orlando Summer League

Matt Moore — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 22:30:00 EST

Filed under: Nets, Bulls, Pacers, Heat, Magic, Eastern, Chicago, Indianapolis, Miami, Summer League, Oklahoma City

Hey, it's the first day. It's the Summer League. It was one game. The first game. Of the Summer League. It's a long week, a long season, a long career. And I'm going to doubt any of that makes Chicago fans that were paying attention to the first day of the NBA's Orlando Summer League feel better, or Miami fans feel worse about today's little exhibition.

Michael Beasley was, in a word, brilliant. 28 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, and a block in 22 minutes. He could have been playing against D-Leaguers, the Harlem Globetrotters, or Mrs. Wormtail's second grade class, those are some slick numbers. That he did it against No.1 overall pick Derrick Rose and the Chicago Bulls, in the midst of a 94-70 whupping made it all the more emphatic. The Heat dominated this game, even as Chicago started Rose, Joakim Noah, and Tyrus Thomas, who you may recognize as starters and heavy rotation guys. Not exactly a pretty start, even if its easy to brush off, given the absurd context of the Magic's practice facility in a meaningless exhibition in which D-League MVP Kasib Powell scored 15 and Keith Langford and Demetris Nichols led the Bulls. Beasley's game was in full effect today, as he worked his mid-range, long-range, post-work, and driving abilities. In a league that's meant to be used as a scrimmage clinic, Beasley put on one.

In the first game of the day, Russell Westbrook debuted for the Oklahoma Whatchamacallits (name to be decided later), with 18 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists. Sophomore Jeff Green added 21 points, but in the end the Indiana Pacers squad was victorious behind Andre Emmett's 15, and Earl Calloway's 16 points, 7 assists. Westbrook was the star of the game, though. Not only did he direct the offense and display both aggressiveness and restraint when it was called for, he only accumulated 1 turnover in 30 minutes, which is great for a rookie point guard (like, oh, say, Derrick Rose who had 5 turnovers. But who's counting?).

In the nightcap, the New Jersey Nets used a whole lot of resentment by Brook Lopez who dropped in the draft, to Chris Douglas Roberts who plummeted to the second round, to Jaycee Carroll, who fell out of the draft completely, to dominate the host Orlando Magic. Lopez had 10 points, CDR had 15 points and 5 boards, and Jaycee Carroll, out of Utah State, had 22 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists. In 20 minutes. Jeez. For the Magic, rookie Courtney Lee had 13 points and Derrick Byars had 15. But the Nets slaughtered the Magic in the paint, 40-18. That's kind of a lot, especially for a Magic squad that had a significant size advantage it would seem.

The story of the day,though, was obviously Rose vs. Beasley. And while Beasley was busy getting his, Rose was having severe issues with Heat second round pick Mario Chalmers. Chalmers has been outspoken about his intentions to get significant minutes for the point guard deficient Heat, and today he made a pretty strong case. Chalmers had 11 points and 6 rebounds for the Heat, and did a great job of guarding Rose. It's only one day, and Rose did show flashes of offensive brilliance, driving to the basket in the second half, but overall it was a little disappointment after all the hype. For Michael Beasley, it was just another fun day at the office.

Beasley's Dominance Punctuates First Day of Orlando Summer League originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Mon, 07 Jul 2008 22:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Forget His First Step, Derrick Rose's Lead Foot Makes News

Matt Watson — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 03:25:00 EST

Filed under: Bulls, Eastern, NBA Police Blotter, Chicago

As the first overall draft pick, Derrick Rose has some big shoes to fill. Somewhat amazingly, he's already topped LeBron James in at least one category ... albeit an embarrassing one. In December, James was ticketed for driving 101 mph in a 65 mph zone, but Rose beat that indiscretion easily, getting caught going 106 in a 65 back in late April.

Wait, this happened back in April? Why are we just now finding out about this? That's a great question -- in the hype machine that is pre-draft coverage, it's actually quite amazing that Rose's camp was able to keep this under wraps. The only reason we found out about it is because Rose's attorney spoke with the media on Tuesday, admitting that his client will have a court appearance later this month.

At least Rose isn't following completely in LeBron's footsteps. In his first comments after the news broke about his ticket, LeBron admitted that it probably wouldn't stop him from speeding in the future, saying it's "not a big deal to me." Rose, on the other hand, showed far more poise by saying, "I know I did something dumb. I made a big mistake. I'm very sorry, and I can only promise that it will never happen again."

Rose's attorney was quick to stress that Rose's driving record was otherwise clean. Color me not surprised: the guy is 19 years old, he's been driving for, what, three years? I'll be more impressed if this is his only ticket three years from now.

I know, I know, people generally don't get too upset about speeding when alcohol isn't involved -- and there wasn't in this case -- but that's just because most people don't fully appreciate the danger in maneuvering a two-ton steel missle hurdling down the road in excess of 100 mph. Rose was pulled over at 3 am, and the distance it'd take him to brake far exceeded the reach of his headlights. Accidents may not happen often, but when they do, they almost always result in the worst-case scenario if you're driving this fast, especially when you're a relatively inexperienced driver.

(via BallHype)

Forget His First Step, Derrick Rose's Lead Foot Makes News originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 03:25:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Meet the Parkers: The Best of Both Worlds, NBA and WNBA

Elie Seckbach — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 10:30:00 EST

Filed under: Raptors, NBA Videos, Chicago, Los Angeles, Women's Sports, Toronto, The Word, FanHouse TV, WNBA

Elie Seckbach, the Embedded NBA Correspondent, brings his exclusive NBA reporting to FanHouse. Check back here regularly for more videos.

In this video we catch up with WNBA star Candace Parker who tells us about her dunking ability. You might be surprised to hear what she has to say about it. We also interview her brother, Anthony Parker, the star of the Toronto Raptors. Around 2:15 into the video find out from Candace which sibling is more popular.

AOL Video link. Youtube link.

Meet the Parkers: The Best of Both Worlds, NBA and WNBA originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Fri, 27 Jun 2008 10:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NBA Draft Crystal Ballin': Chicago Bulls

Tom Ziller — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 10:30:00 EST

Filed under: Bulls, NBA Draft, Chicago

Crystal Ballin' takes a team-by-team look at what should, could, and probably will happen in the June 26th NBA Draft.

Steve Schanwald, you magnificent bastard. That guy's going to get a statue before Scottie Pippen. And -- depending on just how good the #1 pick turns out -- he might do more than Pippen for Chicago's championship aspirations.

Picks: #1, #39.

Needs: Depending on who you ask: a power forward better than Drew Gooden, or a point guard better than Kirk Hinrich.

Best case scenario: If these odd rumors about pulling either Dwyane Wade or the #2 pick from Miami actually have heat ... yeah, that's a "best case scenario." The second-rounder is also high enough to matter next training camp.

More likely scenario: It's safe to assume the Bulls will be using the #1 pick. And all indications -- common sense, inside info, the constellations -- point toward Derrick Rose. A Michael Beasley selection still wouldn't be a shock -- John Paxson's kept his hand relatively tight -- but it remains unlikely. In the second, the Bulls could go any which way. Pax has been responsible for both Tyrus Thomas and Aaron Gray in the last few years, for Ante Tomic's sake.

Please don't take: No trading down for Brook Lopez, please. We don't want a mass suicide in matching #23s and late-edition Air Jordans on the 27th.

Trade possibilities: Excusing the actual draft pick, there stands to be plenty of reason for Pax to be active in trade discussions. He's likely saddled with Larry Hughes 'til the cows come home, but Hinrich and Gooden are tradeable, and even guys like Andres Nocioni and Tyrus Thomas could very well be available in the right package.

NBA Draft Crystal Ballin': Chicago Bulls originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 10:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Derrick Rose Sounds Like a Man Who Knows He'll Be a Chicago Bull

Matt Watson — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 05:15:00 EST

Filed under: Bulls, Eastern, NBA Draft, Chicago

While foreign players occasionally try to steer the decision-making processes of NBA front offices, it's not often you hear a prospective draft pick say where he hopes to land on draft day. Why risk selling yourself short and/or alienating your future employer? That said, it's not often that a player is in Derrick Rose's shoes and has an opportunity to be selected first overall by his hometown team. From ESPN's Andy Katz:

"Everything would be perfect, it would be a dream come true, I swear," Rose said Thursday at the Bulls' practice facility. "I'll probably faint if they call my name, I'll need a paramedic close by."

How confident is he that the Bulls will take him? Well, he may not even bother to take a trip to the visit the Heat. From Brian Hamilton of the Chicago Tribune (via the Postmen):

"I don't think so," Rose said when asked if he would head to Miami. "I'll have to ask [agent B.J. Armstrong] or someone about it, but all I know now is that I'm here.

His brother Reggie clarified that Rose might take a trip to South Beach but didn't think a workout was scheduled just yet. The draft is in a week and Rose isn't even sure if he's working out for the team with the No. 2 pick? Yeah, I'd say he's getting positive vibes from Chicago's front office. Assuming Ben Gordon is right, one of Chicago's incumbent starters probably ought to find a good real estate agent.

Derrick Rose Sounds Like a Man Who Knows He'll Be a Chicago Bull originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 05:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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If the Bulls Draft Rose, Gordon Wants a Trade

Matt Watson — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 18:20:00 EST

Filed under: Bulls, Eastern, NBA Draft, Chicago

If the Bulls draft Derrick Rose, they could feature an intriguing three-guard rotation along with Kirk Hinrich and Ben Gordon. But considering Gordon is always the first guy who gets bumped to the bench whenever the team shakes things up, I'm not too surprised that he's apparently hoping the team drafts Michael Beasley, instead. From the Charlottesville Daily Progress:

"Beasley is just a beast. He's something we need in a low-post presence. I think either player can come in and help us."

But what if the Bulls draft Rose?

"It's a tough one," Gordon said, "If we get Rose, we'll have to [trade] one of the guards on our team. Rose is going to be really good. He can really get to the basket.

[...] "If you ask me or anybody else, that's too many guards," Gordon said, "because players need room to get into a rhythm and need to develop."

First, a disclaimer: Gordon did say good things about both players, and he probably wasn't intending for his words to be construed as if he were stating a preference for one player over the next, but it's not too hard to connect the dots and see he's worried about how Rose would disrupt the backcourt status quo.

Conventional wisdom suggests Hinrich would be the one to go to make room for a new point guard, but who would want him? When the Bulls gave him a hefty contract a couple of years ago, they assumed he'd continue to develop. Instead, he took a huge step back last year, and there probably aren't a lot of contenders who think they can win with him running the show. Unless I'm underestimating John Paxson's ability to con his peers, I think the Bulls are stuck with him.

Gordon, meanwhile, is a restricted free agent, and the Bulls have never seemed fully committed to the idea that an undersized off-guard could be a franchise cornerstone. Despite getting bounced in and out of the starting lineup, he's been the team's leading scorer the last three years. My guess is that he's the one moved. It'll have to be a complicated sign-and-trade for it to work, but there just seems to be more of a market for a guy with his skills.

If the Bulls Draft Rose, Gordon Wants a Trade originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Tue, 17 Jun 2008 18:20:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Will Vinny Be Good for Tyrus Thomas?

Tom Ziller — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 23:05:00 EST

Filed under: Bulls, Kings, Chicago

Vinny Del Negro appeared to be about as blank a slate as you could find when the Bulls hired him. Since the announcement, V.D.N. has been food for the disgruntled Bulls fan's soul, talking about player development and a positive environment.

Trainer (and ESPN.com analyst) David Thorpe watched Tyrus Thomas and Luol Deng (among others) at his facility in Florida, and passed on some rave reviews to Blog-a-Bull, as well as a prediction of how the Tyrus-V.D.N. dynamic might work.

[Tyrus] is deeply sorry for the missed practice, but there were serious circumstances involved. It was a far more complicated issue than what was known publicly. As Luol told me, TT had never even been late to a practice or meeting one single time prior to that day. [...]

TT also shot very well, had his moves and fakes looking like a pro, and had such a positive disposition that afternoon. I told Kevin [Martin of the Kings] that TT is that way every day, as long as he is surrounded by like-minded guys. I believe Vinny will be great for TT, and I told that to Kevin, who responded with "then the Bulls are going to be really good again."

The practice Thorpe refers to came in March. The cause is still a mystery, though the punishment is not: it cost Tyrus two games when his playing time was already in a drought. (For the record, Bulls fans: Martin's the hardest working King of the last 10, 15 years. If he says Tyrus is working hard, then Tyrus is working really flippin' hard.)

Will Vinny Be Good for Tyrus Thomas? originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Sat, 14 Jun 2008 23:05:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It's Hiring Season for NBA Assistants

Matt Watson — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 18:25:00 EST

Filed under: Bulls, Pistons, Suns, Chicago, Detroit, Phoenix

t's funny how NBA coaching jobs fill up in waves -- within a matter of days Terry Porter, Vinny Del Negro and Michael Curry were all hired by the Suns, Bulls and Pistons, respectively. Only Porter has previous head coaching experience (and only two years at that), which means there will likely be a run on veteran assistant coaches for these guys to lean on.

According to Paul Coro of the Arizona Republic, Porter is open to Steve Kerr's suggestion to bring former Hornets and Cavs head coach Paul Silas on board as his lead assistant. Alvin Gentry, who served under Mike D'Antoni, may be retained, and Dan Majerle is also a candidate for a spot on his staff.

Considering how long it took the Bulls to settle on Del Negro, you have to wonder if they'll be able to put together a staff of assistants before the season starts. K.C. Johnson of the Chicago Tribune indicates that Bob Hill, who's been a head coach of the Knicks, Pacers, Spurs and Sonics, is being considered as the lead assistant. John Paxson is also on the record saying that he anticipates hiring one of the myriad of head coaching candidates to join Del Negro's staff. Considering Del Negro has never coached before at any level, the Bulls will probably want to surround him with an extremely experienced staff.

As for Curry, Keith Langlois of Pistons.com indicates that Dave Cowens, who served alongside Curry under Flip Saunders, will be retained. Cowens has previously coached the Hornets and Warriors (as well as the Celtics, if you include his player/coach days from 1978-79), but it's unclear if he's being considered for the lead role. Langlois added that Igor Kokoskov may follow Porter to Phoenix, but Chris McCosky of the Detroit News says that Kokoskov will also pursue head coaching opportunties in Europe.

It's Hiring Season for NBA Assistants originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Tue, 10 Jun 2008 18:25:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Bulls Have Big Plans, Poor Execution

Tom Ziller — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 14:10:00 EST

Filed under: Bulls, Chicago, The Word

O! how wonderfully the sun could have shone in Chicago. If only ...

John Paxson was knocking on Kobe Bryant's door in October. Next thing you know, Larry Hughes is the savior. Meanwhile, in May, Pax had a clear shot at Mike D'Antoni before the franchise mucked things up and led Mike D to believe THE NEW YORK KNICKS! would be a more stable situation. Where's that leave the Bulls? In Vinny Del Negro's stunningly moisturized hands.

It'd be funny if it weren't so dang sad.

The Bulls Have Big Plans, Poor Execution originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Tue, 10 Jun 2008 14:10:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Come On Bulls Fans, Feel the Del Negro!

Tom Ziller — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 14:45:00 EST

Filed under: Bulls, Suns, Chicago

Apparently, the crisis has ended. John Paxson and Jerry Reinsdorf have finally made a decision. Bulls fans, you can be comforted in knowing it will be ... tuna melts for lunch. With fries. No, make that onion rings. Out of onion rings? Oh, geez. We're going to have to rethink this. Back to the drawing board.

Actually, the decision is of a different sort: the Bulls have offered Vinny Del Negro -- the Notorious V.D.N., if you will -- the head coach job. The Chicago Tribune's K.C. Johnson reports V.D.N. is expected to accept. (It'd be pretty embarrassing for the Bulls if he did not accept.)

Del Negro has no coaching experience, which makes him a rarity this summer. Last year, unproven was the vogue, with Sam Vincent (a one-year assistant with Dallas) and Reggie Theus (two years in mid-major college ball) getting big jobs with little experience. Del Negro's bench resume is even more stark, especially in contrast to the other 2008 hires (Scott Skiles, Rick Carlisle, Mike D'Antoni, Larry Brown). Michael Curry could still join V.D.N. in the rookie class, though.

I have no idea what Del Negro's hire means because I have no idea what Del Negro stands for. Vinny did ascend into the Suns front office under D'Antoni, but had been granted most of his power under Steve Kerr. Based on Reinsdorf's fatwa against offensive-minded coaches during this search, one can only assume Del Negro trends toward the defensive perspective which led to trading for Shaquille O'Neal. Gulp.

Come On Bulls Fans, Feel the Del Negro! originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Mon, 09 Jun 2008 14:45:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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In Times of Strife, Turn to Vinny Del Negro

Tom Ziller — Sun, 08 Jun 2008 12:45:00 EST

Filed under: Bulls, Suns, NBA Rumors, Chicago

Someday, a book will be written about the Great Chicago Coaching Search of 2008. A gentle reminder of the men John Paxson has either interviewed or been reported to have talked to so far:

Brian Shaw, Kurt Rambis, Tyrone Corbin, Dwane Casey, Jeff Hornacek, Chuck Person, John Lucas, Eric Snow, Avery Johnson, Mike D'Antoni, Mark Jackson, Michael Curry, Doug Collins, Rick Carlisle, and ... Vinny Del Negro.

And guess who is the front-runner, according to the Chicago Tribune's K.C. Johnson? It's Del Negro, the guy on this list who has never been so much as an assistant coach in the NBA. Del Negro currently works as an assistant GM in the Suns organization, and reportedly works on shooting with the players.

Johnson places Del Negro, Casey and Person as the three finalists, and said the three have been told a decision is "imminent." Of course, the filling of the job seemed imminent back in April, when Carlisle seemed the clear-cut favorite before signing with Dallas, then again in early May, when D'Antoni seemed like a lock, then again last week when multiple media outlets reported Collins was a done deal. So, really, who freaking knows? Maybe Drew Gooden's beard will run the summer league team.

In Times of Strife, Turn to Vinny Del Negro originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Sun, 08 Jun 2008 12:45:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Doug Collins Will Not Coach the Bulls

Matt Watson — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 18:25:00 EST

Filed under: Bulls, Eastern, NBA Rumors, Chicago

We can stop wondering why the Bulls haven't worked out a deal with Doug Collins because apparently there won't be a deal with Doug Collins. After talking with Jerry Reinsdorf on the phone this afternoon, Collins removed his name from contention. He gave his reasons to the Chicago Tribune:

"This is absolutely mutual. When this first came about, there was a tremendous amount of excitement about this possibility. And I'm losing that. The feeling now is more, 'Should I do this?' Once I got to that point, it meant no. I always make decisions yes is yes, no is no and maybe is no.

"I just knew over the last few days that Jerry was really struggling over whether or not to do this, and I didn't want Jerry to have those struggles," Collins told the Tribune. "I love him. And I didn't want him feeling that kind of angst.

"Jerry knows me well enough to know the only way I could do this is if I was totally engaged. And I just couldn't do that now."

Unsubstantiated conspiracy theory: Reinsdorf had already cooled on Collins, but because of his previous relationship with Collins, he allowed Collins to publicly bow out to save himself from the embarrassment of being passed over.

An alternate, slightly less conniving theory: Collins actually wanted to coach the Bulls but got cold feet once he realized he didn't have complete and enthusiastic support from the front office, evident by their decision to continue interviewing candidates.

Either way, the end result is the same: the Bulls are still headless after seven weeks. From my seat, it seems Reinsdorf is doing more damage than good. John Paxson gave the thumbs up on Mike D'Antoni and was apparently good with Collins, but Reinsdorf dragged his feet on both and is now left without anything to show for it. Maybe they dodged a bullet by "losing" Collins (there was hardly universal support among Bulls fans), but it still shouldn't take nearly two months and 10,000 interviews to find a coach.

Doug Collins Will Not Coach the Bulls originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Fri, 06 Jun 2008 18:25:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Jerry Reinsdorf May Pass on Doug Collins for Leaking News of Offer

Matt Watson — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 16:10:00 EST

Filed under: Bulls, Eastern, NBA Rumors, Chicago

Yesterday my colleague Tom Ziller asked the not-so-hypothetical question, "Whatever happened to Doug Collins?" For a few brief seconds it looked like he was a lock to be hired by the Bulls, and yet instead of getting a deal done the team has continued to drag their heels by giving the likes of Dwane Casey and Chuck Person second interviews.

So what gives? Brian Hanley of the Chicago Sun-Times explains:

General manager John Paxson was unavailable for comment and remained waiting for the OK from chairman Jerry Reinsdorf to hire Doug Collins. Reinsdorf is said to be upset that the news of Collins' imminent hiring was leaked last week to media, which is why he has revisited the decision.

Really? If that's the case, wow, Reinsdorf seriously needs to get over himself. If he's confident enough to make a multi-year offer, he shouldn't be so worried about the news getting out a few days before he wanted.

But while the Bulls are still talking to candidates, the Daily Herald reports that the Bulls "have not shown much interest" in interviewing recently disposed Pistons Flip Saunders (much to the chagrin of local bloggers). The Star-Tribune muses that Flip might take a year off from coaching to serve as a television analyst. Considering he'll still collect $5.4 million owed from the Pistons, there's no reason for him not to jump back into the business.

Jerry Reinsdorf May Pass on Doug Collins for Leaking News of Offer originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Fri, 06 Jun 2008 16:10:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Whatever Happened to Doug Collins?

Tom Ziller — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 10:58:00 EST

Filed under: Bulls, NBA Rumors, Chicago

A week ago, the big (eh) news around the league was the impending hire of Doug Collins in Chicago. Many gnashed their teeth, many cheered the move, most just expressed relief the vital opening would finally be filled after six weeks of hemming. But of course, the hire just kept getting discussed and discussed ... and never actually happened.

Which leaves an opening for more rumors, like this one from Jeff Goodman of FOXSports.com (via Blog-a-Bull):

According to a source close to the situation, former Minnesota Timberwolves coach Dwane Casey's interview with Bulls general manager John Paxson on Wednesday went extremely well, and he has emerged as a legitimate candidate.

Casey did a great job (considering the roster) in Minnesota, and suffered the most undeserved firing of the past four years when he was let go midway through 2006-07. He coaches defense as well as any young coach in the league, and seemed to command the players' respect ... even on a team led by hyper Kevin Garnett.

But wasn't Collins a foregone conclusion? What on Earth has taken Paxson so long on this? Cold feet with Collins? Some sort of disagreement in negotiations? Is Casey (and another interview with Kings assistant Chuck Person) just something to get Collins to concede on some sticking point (like allowing Pax to assign a top assistant as heir to the throne)?

Whatever Happened to Doug Collins? originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Thu, 05 Jun 2008 10:58:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Beasley's Refreshing (But Frightening) Honesty

Tom Ziller — Fri, 30 May 2008 10:55:00 EST

Filed under: Bulls, Heat, NBA Draft, Chicago, Miami

Via HoopsHype, the Miami Herald's Heat blog has some 'media day' quotes from top prospect Michael Beasley which simultaneously cause smiles and queasiness for anyone hopeful for his NBA future.

"I just turned 19 years old in January," Beasley said. "How mature do you want me to be? I'm still a kid. I'm not 20 yet. I'm not legal. I can vote, but that's about it. On the basketball side of things, I'm 30 years old. Off the court, I don't know how old y'all want me to be. Do you want me to act 25? 30? 40?. I'm 19. I'm a kid. I'm going to live my life. I'm going to mess up. I don't know as much as you do or him. I'm learning day by day. I hear a lot about character issues. But I've yet to hear what those character issues are. Until I hear somebody tell me, I don't feel the need to change."

The honest perspective -- these kids are kids, you know -- seems spot on. Not every elite prospect can be as businesslike as Kevin Durant or as camp as Greg Oden. Moreover, we shouldn't want them to be. Personality, even if it means the guy's a bit of a practical joker, shouldn't be a demerit.

At the same time, when you're spending a top-2 pick and about $20 million on a player, basically lashing your franchise to a single decision, you want some assurances the dude is serious about being serious. So yeah, Chicago or Miami would like you to act 25, 30 or 40 years old. And if you haven't heard what "those character issues" are, you should probably read the landmark Washington Post feature written about you in 2007, which has been cited 2,700 times since April. (In fairness, Beasley had an impeccable season at K-State and seems more goofball than future felon, for all the worry [guilty] he caused.)

Previously on FanHouse:
NBA Frankenstein: Michael Beasley

Beasley's Refreshing (But Frightening) Honesty originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Fri, 30 May 2008 10:55:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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YesNoMaybeYes -- Doug Collins in Chicago

Will Brinson — Fri, 30 May 2008 02:00:00 EST

Filed under: Bulls, Eastern, NBA Gossip, NBA Media Watch, Chicago

First Doug Collins was in as coach of the Chicago Bulls. Then he was most assuredly not definitely in. Then Collins got all up in my talking box before the Lakers - Spurs Game 5 and confirmed he was definitely not in.

'I have not been offered, I have not accepted. I have had conversations with John Paxson and Jerry Reinsdorf ... but we have spoken. The whole thing is, there is interest on both sides, and as soon as the Western Conference Finals are over ... we've agreed to sit down and talk and see exactly what's there.'

And then, just to completely torture me, he got on the box again with Marv Albert and discussed his presence in the news recently. The particulars are not as interesting as the general tone though.

Albert all but confirmed that Collins was leaving stating that he had "twice now" chased him off (they worked together at NBC before Collins joined the Wizards).

Additionally, the entire premise of the announcements seemed to be that Collins was making sure he did not cross over his job requirements, meaning he wanted to make sure and focus on TNT's coverage of the Western Conference Finals. Of course, he could not have known before the game that the Lakers would close the Spurs out in five, but it appears, with TNT out of the picture, that he is likely headed back to coaching.

Either way, at least Bulls fans have a quick breather until Paxson drops the "We hired Doug Collins" hammer on them for the second time in a month.

YesNoMaybeYes -- Doug Collins in Chicago originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Fri, 30 May 2008 02:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Bulls: We Haven't Hired Doug Collins ... Yet

Matt Watson — Thu, 29 May 2008 17:25:00 EST

Filed under: Bulls, Eastern, NBA Rumors, Chicago, The Word

Bulls GM John Paxson has released the following denial regarding the reports from earlier today that Doug Collins has agreed to return as head coach:

"I have been in contact with Doug Collins in regard to our head coaching position. Contrary to some reports that are currently out there, we have not reached an agreement. Right now, his commitment is covering the Western Conference Finals for TNT. When that series concludes, we will continue our dialogue. In the meantime, I will continue to talk to other candidates and review our options."

Collins released a nearly identical statement, which makes me think the two sides coordinated their messages.

In any case, this could be a moot case within a matter of hours: the Spurs are on the ropes facing a 3-1 deficit, and there's a good chance they'll be officially dispatched tonight. Whenever it happens, I imagine it won't take longer than a day or so for Collins and the Bulls to complete their talks.

Bulls: We Haven't Hired Doug Collins ... Yet originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Thu, 29 May 2008 17:25:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Bulls Apparently Hire Doug Collins (Again)

Matt Watson — Thu, 29 May 2008 12:55:00 EST

Filed under: Bulls, Eastern, NBA Rumors, Chicago, The Word

Update: It's not quite official ... yet.

After interviewing half of the league's assistants, my old CYO coach and Tas Melas, the Bulls finally found their man: Doug Collins. From the K.C. Johnson of the Chicago Tribune:

Sources confirmed the former Bulls coach is expected to become the new Bulls coach. Collins coached the Bulls from 1986-89 and, as recently as two weeks ago, talked about not wanting to leave his TNT broadcasting job and the family life it afforded him.

But Collins' extremely close relationship with Paxson, friendship with team Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf (who fired Collins) and the Bulls winning the draft lottery have changed his mind, sources said.

For what it's worth, Brian Hanley of the Chicago Sun-Times confirms the report, citing a source who said the team should be officially announced "sooner rather than later." The lengthy, drawn-out interview process won't be a complete waste of time, though, as Johnson reports that at least one of the previous candidates will likely land on Collins' staff.

Re-hiring Collins almost two decades after his first stint in the Windy City is certainly surprising, but not because I don't think he's a good coach -- I just wonder if he's the right coach for the job. He's known for being extremely intense, but the Bulls just tuned out Scott Skiles for having that same attribute in spades. That said, Collins is also known for facilitating quick improvements: with the No. 1 pick at his disposal, you have to figure the Bulls will be back in the playoffs next year -- although I'll be satisfied if he simply brings back the perm.

Bulls Apparently Hire Doug Collins (Again) originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Thu, 29 May 2008 12:55:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Paxson Says He's Tired of Beasley/Rose Talk; 29 Other NBA GMs Give Him the Finger

Tom Ziller — Thu, 29 May 2008 00:10:00 EST

Filed under: Bulls, NBA Draft, Chicago

On occasion of second-round prospect Joey Dorsey telling the world he knows Michael Beasley will be selected by the Bulls #1 overall, Chicago general manager John Paxson has his Network moment, as reported by Brian Hanley of the Sun-Times.

"There's absolutely no reason anyone would have any clue," a clearly perturbed Paxson said at the NBA's predraft camp. "It doesn't do me any good to even respond to this stuff. I'm tired of it already. Nobody has any idea. Anyone who speculates can do that. That's fine. But nobody knows."

A real people-person, that Pax. On the one hand, it's hard to blame Paxson: of course this surely constant barrage of questions, renewed with each passing rumor, has to be annoying. But it will only last a month, and at the end of the road awaits an incredible prospect (either way). It only gets better from here, man. Carpe diem.

Also, Pax could have fun with this and start floating lower-rung prospect names. Hell, he could start making up names. "Yeah, we're going to bring in Stanislav Slapadappawinkidinkivic for a workout. We think he could be a great fit with the first pick." That'll teach the hard-working beat writers. That'll teach'em.

Paxson Says He's Tired of Beasley/Rose Talk; 29 Other NBA GMs Give Him the Finger originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Thu, 29 May 2008 00:10:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Joey Dorsey Is Omniscient and All Up Inside John Paxson's Head

Will Brinson — Wed, 28 May 2008 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: Bulls, Heat, NBA Draft, NBA Gossip, NBA Media Watch, Chicago, Miami

NBA draft pundits/experts/whathaveyou's always have two schools of thought. One, who a team should take and two, who a team will take, given their draft position.

Joey Dorsey, on the other hand, doesn't mess around. He is just flat out letting everyone know what is going to happen. Because, apparently, he has some sort of inside source.

'Chicago's got a lot of pressure on them because Derrick's from Chicago,' Dorsey said. 'But they're going to take Beasley. I've got the inside. They're going to get Beasley. ... I'm not telling you how I know. You'll see June 26. I can't say any more.'

Dorsey might be right, but neither the Bulls or the Heat are willing to say so.

'I'm not going to get into any details on that,' Heat general manager Randy Pfund said when asked how Miami's work leading into the draft, including the scheduling of workouts with potential lottery picks, is going.

Clearly, Pfund is just pflustered by Dorsey's call out of the Bulls in the top slot.

Now, the bonus to Dorsey's gamble here is that he has a 50/50 shot, since no one else even enters the conversation. Unless of course Paxson slipped up and already told Derrick Rose they are not taking him and Rose told Dorsey, which I suppose, is actually plausible if you've followed the Bulls recently.

Joey Dorsey Is Omniscient and All Up Inside John Paxson's Head originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Wed, 28 May 2008 19:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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