Chicago Bulls' Jimmy Butler Raising His Game To The Next Level

For the second pre-season game in a row, Jimmy Butler has been the Chicago Bulls' Player of the Game.

With his 21 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals in last night's convincing win over the Denver Nuggets, he was the Bulls' leading scorer and one of the teams' leading rebounders. But you can't really "see" Butler's impact on the game by just browsing the box score.

Jimmy Butler is the guy deflecting passes, disrupting the timing of an offensive play, or coming up with the tip that allows the Bulls to secure the rebound. None of these things will be accounted for in the box score or the article about the game the next day, but for the knowledgeable basketball fan, and more importantly, his Chicago Bulls teammates and coaches, it is about doing the little things that lead to the win.

Even though last season saw Jimmy Butler assume the starting shooting guard role (while Luol Deng was still a member of the Bulls playing small forward) on the strength of his growth from the year before, as well as, his incredible playoff series against nemesis Lebron James and the Miami Heat.

Despite struggling offensively in the starting role (his shooting percentages dipped from 46.7% to 39.7% and his three-point shooting dropped from a respectable 38.1% to 28.3%), possibly due to the increase in minutes, as well as, the increased focus on his offensive role after Luol Deng was traded to Cleveland, what remained true was his work and dedication on the defensive end.

With the growing respect of the media, as well as his peers, since his strong play in the 2013 NBA Playoffs, Butler was recognized for his efforts by being selected to the 2014 All-Defensive Second Team.

But this is a new season. However, judging by his performances in the previous two games, Jimmy Butler plans on not only reprising his role as a demon on defense, but he is quickly growing to become both Pau Gasol and Derrick Rose's favorite target as a cutter on offense. With the two new adept passers capable of hitting him on his cuts and his strength and ability to finish at the rim. Butler will see his field goal percentage skyrocket from all the easy baskets.

Butler has also been in the spotlight for another reason, and that is the rapidly approaching deadline for the Chicago Bulls front office and Butler to agree on a contract extension that will keep the 4th year wing off of the free agency market. Recent deals for Gordon Hayward and Chandler Parsons belie the shortage of quality young, two-way shooting guards, and it would indicate that Butler will be making some very good money very soon.

And hopefully, it will be in a Chicago Bulls uniform for a long time to come.

What do you think of Jimmy Butler's game, and what are your expectations for him this season with the Chicago Bulls? 

Chicago Bulls Trade Rumor: Joakim Noah To The Phoenix Suns?

In the wake of the blockbuster trade that sent Luol Deng to the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Bulls are reportedly seeking another trade that would create more salary cap space and speed up their rebuilding effort.

Joakim Noah, as a trade chip, could bring back several 2014 draft picks if the Bulls choose to rebuild.

According to NBA Insider Chad Ford of ESPN, the Bulls are apparently not done making moves, as they are currently in talks with several teams about the possibility of trading Noah, veteran point guard Kirk Hinrick and even Carlos Boozer (despite his big contract).

"Don't think so. Lots of talk about those two as well as Boozer. I've said this in several of our last Tank Ranks, management has made the decision to tank this season. Coach isn't on board, but they can keep taking cards out of his hand to play," Ford stated during a chat session on ESPN Sports Nation.

Noah, who is averaging just 11.1 points and 10.4 rebounds this season, has carved out a name as one of the best defensive centers in the NBA. His tenacity on both ends of the floor makes him one of the most sought-after big men in the league.

Picks For The Future

Without a doubt, the Bulls can easily shop Noah to any contender and receive a handful of veterans in return, if their only desire was to clear up salary cap space.

However, dealing JoNo would put the Bulls in full rebuilding mode, and the rebuilding process would only be undertaken with a plan to replace the loss of Deng, and possibly Noah. This would involve getting a serviceable youngster in the deal or through the NBA Draft.

With this summer's NBA Draft predicted to be the deepest in a decade, the Bulls would do well getting a collection of 2014 draft picks in exchange for Noah.

The Phoenix Suns have four first-round picks in the 2014 NBA Draft, and they have allegedly expressed their intentions of trading some of these picks in exchange for another star that will help them contend in a very rigid Western Conference playoff race.

The Suns already have an explosive backcourt tandem in Eric Bledsoe and Goran Dragic, but Noah's defensive presence could make the team a force to reckon with in the Western Conference, according to basketball analysts.

One possible trade scenario could have the Bulls sending Noah to the Suns in exchange for two first round picks, Emeka Okafor and one of the Morris twins , Markieff or Marcus, with filler in order to make the money work.

The Bulls and Suns have roughly a month left to pull off this trade as the trade deadline comes to a close on Feb. 20.

If you were the Bulls' GM, what would you think about trading Joakim Noah for a pair of first round picks in this summer's NBA Draft? Tell us in the comments below!

Fan Reaction: Chicago Bulls Trade Deng To Cavaliers For Financial Flexibility and Draft Picks

CHICAGO, IL.  After weeks of speculation, the Chicago Bulls front office finally pulled the trigger on a deal that signaled the beginning of their nine month blueprint for the team following another season-ending knee injury to MVP Point Guard Derrick Rose.

The deal sent All-Star Forward Luol Deng to the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for Andrew Bynum and three draft picks.

Deng had been averaging 19.0 PPG, 6.9 RPG, and 3.7 APG in his 10th season with the Bulls.

The loss of Deng was an unfortunate consequence of the loss of Derrick Rose for the season and along with him, the Bulls' championship aspirations. With their title hopes diminished, the Chicago Bulls' front office needed to focus on the team's financial situation. The luxury tax was a price worth paying for an NBA Championship contender but not merely a playoff team.

The Cavs' Bynum has a team friendly contract that allowed the Chicago Bulls to save $20M in a bid to sneak below the luxury tax threshold and avoid the severe penalties, such as the onerous repeater luxury tax, instituted in the last collective bargaining agreement. Immediately after the trade, the Bulls finalized paperwork to waive the maligned Bynum.

In addition, the Bulls acquired 3 draft picks in the deal, including two future second round picks and a Top 12-protected, 2014 1st round pick belonging to the Sacramento Kings. The Kings' pick will potentially give the Bulls three first round picks in this summer's loaded NBA Draft.

Fan reaction nationwide to the trade was that it was a win-win, however fan sentiment in Chicago was that the team lost a great player but an even better man.

The Man From Sudan was a true humanitarian and ambassador for the Bulls and the NBA who spent every off-season doing charitable works, often in his home country.

On the court, Deng was a model teammate and the epitome of a coachable talent. He was a favorite of Coach Thibodeau, and because of his commitment to defense, Deng is one of the best two way players in the NBA today.

The move signals that the Chicago Bulls will most likely pursue a talent upgrade through this summer's NBA Draft, one of the deepest and most talented in years.

What are your thoughts on the Luol Deng trade? Do you think it will make the Chicago Bulls better or worse in the long term? Please enter your opinion in the comments below!

@DRose Leads Bulls Past Thunder to Remain NBA's Only Preseason Unbeaten

WICHITA, KS.  While he did not have his best game of the preseason in front of his first national television audience of #theReturn, Derrick Rose still got the job done in the end.

Without Joakim Noah (groin) and Kirk Hinrich (concussion), Rose propelled the Chicago Bulls to their 7th win of the preseason, and with the New Orleans Pelicans losing on the night, the Bulls remain the preseason's only undefeated squad going into the preseason's final contest.

With a line of 26 points, 4 rebounds, and 6 assists, DRose kept his undefeated Return going for its 7th game.

Rose, despite missing some makeable shots, put up 26 points on only 15 shots, to go along with 4 rebounds and 6 assists. Much of that efficiency was due to Rose's aggressiveness on the offensive end, drawing and making all of his 10 free throws, as well as, hitting 4 of 8 from three point range.

One of Rose's earliest shots in the game was a three pointer that was waived off due to the shot clock not resetting. It, along with his other three-point attempts, showed the consistent stroke he has developed on his three that has made it such a successful weapon in his arsenal so far throughout the preseason.

With #theReturn of Derrick's explosiveness and agility, the consistent jumper and three-point shot he has worked so hard on may make guarding him, including by Miami's Lebron James, impossible. We'll have plenty of regular season and postseason games to see how his hard work will pay off.

Chicago also received major contributions from Carlos Boozer (20 points, 14 rebounds) and Luol Deng (20 points, 10 rebounds).

Starter Jimmy Butler has looked very good next to DRose, chipping in 12 points and 4 rebounds.

For the Thunder, Kevin Durant lead the way with 22 points.

Chicago Bulls, Deng Unable To Come To Terms On Extension

The Chicago Bulls and Luol Deng were not able to come to terms on an extension to Deng's contract which is set to end following the 2013-14 NBA season. This means that, after what will be 10 seasons with the Chicago Bulls, Deng will become an unrestricted free agent next summer.

According to his agent, Deng will test the free agency market in the summer of 2014.

While rumors of talks between the two sides were reported weeks ago, that Deng and the Bulls were not able to agree on terms is not surprising.

The Chicago Bulls have been on the wrong side of the salary cap as of last year and are set to have to pay a salary cap penalty this season, as well. Bulls management have stated that they are trying to maintain salary cap flexibility, and rumors have the Chicago Bulls working to clear enough cap space to sign a major free agent next summer.

The 28 year old Deng will make $14.3M this season, and the contract he signs this summer will most likely be his last lucrative, long-term deal. Deng was selected to his second All-Star Game last season.

How do you feel about Deng becoming a free agent after this season? What is your favorite Luol Deng Chicago Bulls moment? Please tell us in the comments below!

2013-14 NBA Season Predictions: 5 Reasons Why the Chicago Bulls and Derrick Rose Will Reclaim The NBA Summit

While we are not completely impartial, we have five reasons why we feel the Chicago Bulls will surpass all this season for the NBA Championship, and Derrick Rose will take NBA MVP honors:

1.  A year without Rose and other player injuries may have been the lesson the coaching staff needed.

Could being more rested decrease the chances and severity of injuries and make the difference against an older team like the Miami Heat come playoff time? 

Last season was one of overachievement for a Chicago Bulls squad that had significant problems fielding a consistent line-up all season long due to injuries, including the loss of Luol Deng and Kirk Hinrich for the season ending series with the Miami Heat.

And while Tom Thibodeau's Chicago Bulls will always be the hardest working team on the court, they have never been the more rested team. After having been together for these last three years or longer, the core of Derrick Rose, Luol Deng, Carlos Boozer, and Joakim Noah should have their practice routines down. It should come down to a better plan for getting rest and game-day execution.

So, hopefully the past year has informed the coaching staff of the value of working in rest, because these Chicago Bulls, should home court advantage elude them, are not afraid of playing the Miami Heat in Miami, and rest may be the edge they need over a geriatric Miami Heat team.

2.  Luol Deng is in a contract year.

Luol Deng is in the final year of his contract, and at 28 years old, his next contract may be his last big deal.

Luol Deng will be in the final year of his contract this season (which will pay him $14.3M this season), and although most players seem to put up their best numbers in their contract years, it is hard to see how Deng can play any harder than he has every season under Thibodeau.

Despite knowing that Deng is a team guy who plays with maximum effort, it is hard to deny that there is the additional incentive for the 28 year old Deng to earn a lucrative new contract (probably his last long term, major contract for his career). Will this give him extra motivation to propel the Bulls to the championship?

3.  Jimmy Butler has earned the starting SG spot.

Any other Chicago Bulls fans have this poster hanging on their wall? 

For the humble, hard-working third year man from Tomball, Texas, earning the starting nod at shooting guard has got to feel like a dream to Jimmy Butler. But not long after perfectionist, 2011 NBA Coach of the Year Tom Thibodeau made the decision, Butler was back to his off-season regimen, also finding the time to work out with returning backcourt-mate, Derrick Rose.

A great series against the Miami Heat, guarding Lebron James, showed us just how talented Butler is, and it will be a revelation to see what he can do with consistent minutes playing next to the former MVP, Rose. Expect more posters like the one that has Jimmy Butler immortalizing one Chris Bosh in an awkward position.

Jimmy Butler is a Thibodeau-guy through and through; he is a player that values hard-work and believes that practice makes for on-court perfection. So he is in the gym working on his game, only stopping to give interviews where he states that it is the Chicago Bulls responsibility to stop the Miami Heat from three-peating this season (a feat last achieved by the 1996-1997-1998 Chicago Bulls lead by Michael Jordan).

"Jimmy Buckets" knows the Bulls fans of the blue collar city of Chicago: that we can't stand the Miami Heat, that we can't stand the Lebron James "comparisons" to Michael Jordan (can you say, watered-down, special superstar-rules league?), and we can't stand another ill-gotten Miami Heat championship. So shortly after that interview, Butler was elected mayor of the city... just kidding! But Chicago loves this kid!

4.  The window is almost closed.

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but the window, on this particular Chicago Bulls core group, is almost closed. While Derrick Rose, Joakim Noah, and Jimmy Butler are basically untouchable, as we saw earlier in the summer in trade rumors speculating a deal for the Portland Trailblazer's Lamarcus Aldridge, Luol Deng and Carlos Boozer seem to be the key starters that may be rotated out if this season does not result in a NBA Finals appearance, at least.

Luol Deng and Carlos Boozer, while being very efficient players that are producers in Thibodeau's system, would seem to be the casualties if there is another failure to overcome the Miami Heat in the playoffs. It would most likely come as a result of Luol Deng's expiring contract and amnestying Carlos Boozer's contract, which would clear enough cap space for a 2014 max contract free agent.

Many on the list of potential free agents in 2014 are familiar names from the "Summer of Lebron", as Lebron, Dwayne Wade, and Chris Bosh all have Early Termination Option clauses in their contracts with Miami. Two interesting targets are Carmelo Anthony and Rudy Gay, but that is a conversation for a later date.

The point is that, if progress is not made this season against the Miami Heat, big changes seem to be looming in the core roster, and hopefully, that is enough for these guys to make that extra rebound and extra play it takes to prove that this team deserves to stay intact.

5.  Derrick Rose is confident that he is the best player in the NBA.

The last time DRose set his goal as becoming MVP, he surpassed Lebron for the honor. Now, he has stated that he is the best player in the NBA. Lebron watch out.

Finally, the single most important reason the Chicago Bulls can and will climb to the summit of the NBA is that Derrick Rose is confident in his belief that he is the best player in the NBA.

It is not just the reports that Rose has honed his jumpshot when he could not do anything else during rehab. And it is not just the reports that others have said that he looks good in practices.

Rose is not a boastful personality who says anything to get on ESPN. Rose backs up his words with season's long effort of carrying the Chicago Bulls on his back.

So for him to come out so forcefully saying that HE is the best player in the NBA amounts to him saying to the other 29 NBA teams:  "I'm back, and I know that my knee is healed 100%."

That is a scary thought coming from the youngest NBA MVP ever.


What are your thoughts about the Chicago Bulls and their chances of winning the NBA Championship this season? Will they topple Miami? Why or Why not? 
Tell us in the comments below!

The Off-Season Moves That Will Have The Chicago Bulls Poised To Win The NBA Championship

Three things will happen for sure this summer:

1.  Carlos Boozer will be amnestied. This will free up $15M.

2.  Luol Deng will be traded for a dominant offensive player in a high-risk, high-reward deal.

3.  The Bulls will not pick up Rip Hamilton's option. This will free up $5M.


The question is:  What subsequent moves will make the Chicago Bulls a team that has not only the will, heart, and leadership to compete with the Miami Heat, but a team that has the talent and star-power to compete?


1.  Why amnesty Boozer?
Well, the decision to amnesty Boozer is by no means an easy one. He is has been one of the most efficient Bulls players this season with a PER of 17.17 and averaging a respectable 16.2 PPG and 9.8 RPG.

However, word on the street is that the amnesty of Boozer is necessary to free up enough cap space to go after a max contract free agent this summer, with the two most intriguing frontline targets for the Chicago Bulls being Al Jefferson (UTA) and one Dwight Howard (LAL).

Either of these two players is a size upgrade over Boozer, though neither is the passer that Boozer has proven to be in the low-post along side Jaokim Noah. However, it is the size that will consistantly bother the Miami Heat when they try to force their way inside.

Could a shot at Al Jefferson or Dwight Howard be enough to amnesty Carlos Boozer?

Jefferson is solid (17.8 PPG, 9.2 RPG, PER 20.99) and would be a great fit with the Bulls.

Howard seems to have discovered that the bright lights of L.A. were too bright. Despite ownerships' interest in keeping him, his desire to stay is beyond certain.

2.  Why trade Deng, and for whom?
The question of why trade Deng was partially answered by the success the Chicago Bulls continued to have after Deng went down this post-season. Much of this was due to the incredible ironman effort of Jimmy Butler. He played the role as good as and possibly better than Deng at this point in his career.

The clincher was the lock down defense Butler was able to play on Lebron James. He was able to force him into uncomfortable shots and several fouls that were awarded to Lebron were not even fouls on replay. That solid play made management have to consider what deals could be had with the Chicago Bulls leading scorer as the centerpiece.

Luol Deng is a do-it all Small Forward, and many teams could be interested in adding a solid team player like Deng to their team.

Tyreke Evans would give the Bulls a dominant offensive threat to pair with Rose.

We are going to put a trade back on the table that we suggested about a year ago that has Luol Deng going to the Sacramento Kings for Tyreke Evans, filler, and Sacramento's 2014 First Round Draft Pick. It would be a win-win for both teams with Deng bringing leadership and professionalism to the young players on Sacramento, and the Bulls get the athletic and offensive threat to keep some of the pressure and double teams off of Rose.

3.  Why let Rip Hamilton go?
While Rip was the Chicago Bulls starter for most of the season (on paper anyway), his health and the emergence of Nate Robinson and Marco Belinelli pushed Rip way down in the rotation.

We saw glimpses of what should have been, with Rip taking Mario Chalmers and Norris Cole down onto the block and scored over both with ease in Game 5 of the Chicago vs Miami series. However, the Bulls may very well need that last bit of cap space to seal the deal with Jefferson or Howard, and so you just have to live with the trade off.

Now it's your turn to play GM! What moves would you make to get the Chicago Bulls back on top? Let us know in the comments below!

#theReturn of Derrick Rose Update: DRose Dunk Video

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK. After an undermanned and tired Chicago Bulls squad fell to the Oklahoma City Thunder, 102-72, a Chicago Bulls fan is left trying to find the silver lining in the storm cloud.

As usual, the silver lining is provided by none other than Chi-Town's favorite son, Derrick Rose.

During warmups before the Chicago Bulls played the Oklahoma City Thunder, Derrick Rose was dunking off the dribble, an important step to full recovery from his ACL surgery.

The Chicago Bulls organization has, and wisely so, emphasized that they want Derrick Rose to come back only when he feels ready. They have a great deal invested in the 24 year old former MVP of the league, including a 5-year $94 million contract signed in December 2011.

In addition, while the Bulls' roster was overhauled over the summer in order to stay under the new salary cap, it was still design to be a team centered around the Bulls' All-World Point Guard. While these moves added veteran combo guards Kirk Hinrich and Nate Robinson in order to score and run the team while Rose recovers from ACL surgery and rehab, the Rose-less Chicago Bulls are an Aston Martin without its engine.

So, Chicago waited. And hoped. And prayed. And longed.

And with each passing game on the schedule, the media leaks updates of DRose's rehab to the fans of Chi-Town.

And the latest video shows a literal "leap" in DRose's rehab:  Derrick Rose is dunking.

While we don't yet know exactly when, Chicago can plan on hearing the words that brings the greatest joy to a Bulls' fan's heart: "I'm Back!"

How far can the Chicago Bulls advance if Derrick Rose returns in time for the NBA playoffs? Let us know what you think in the comments below!

With NBA All-Star Game Fast Approaching, #theReturn of Derrick Rose Is Upon Us

The NBA's annual All-Star Weekend is a mere 3 days away now, and it holds some special significance to Chicago Bulls fans, this season in particular.

In leading the Chicago Bulls to a surprising first half of the NBA season, Noah and Deng have earned reserve spots in the 2013 NBA All-Star Game.

The reason is much more than the fact that two Bulls were named to the Eastern Conference All-Star team: Center Joakim Noah and Forward Luol Deng. Joakim Noah was selected to his first All-Star Game for averaging a double double in points (11.9 ppg) and rebounds (11.2 rpg, 5th in the NBA), as well as, leading the Chicago Bulls in steals (1.3 spg) and blocks (2.0 bpg). Luol Deng leads the Bulls in points (17.0 ppg) while putting in a team-high 39.7 minutes per game for the Eastern Conference's current #4 seed. 

And the reason is much more than that the Chicago Bulls have exceeded expectations in the first three months of the NBA season. and remain entrenched among the top 4 teams in the Eastern Conference. Head Coach Tom Thibodeau has Chicago winning (30-21 on the season) despite injuries (all starters have missed games with injury) and 7 new players on the Bulls' 15 man roster; with every opportunity to simply tread water, the culture of winning keeps Thibs crew scrapping for every loose ball and winning every close game.

Even with all that to be excited about, Chicago Bulls fans are most excited this All-Star Weekend what this time was meant to mark. Bulls fans have been told that the 2013 NBA All-Star Game will be the earliest time to expect #theReturn. #theReturn of drive. #theReturn of push. #theReturn of focus. #theReturn of hope. #theReturn of belief.

For weeks heading into the All-Star Break, Chicago has been hanging on every rumor of #theReturn of Derrick Rose.

Yes, with the 2013 NBA All-Star Break fast approaching, Chicago Bulls fans have been anticipating #theReturn of Derrick Rose.

While reports today have Rose still "far away" from returning, the mid-NBA season pause is a natural time for fans to reflect on their favorite team and their team's chances in the post-season; and Chicago Bulls fans have got to like the view.

The injuries to several starters have revealed that the new additions to the Chicago Bulls bench are quite possibly better than last seasons' incredible Bench Mob; Nate Robinson and Marco Belinelli provide consistent offensive production off the bench, and Kirk Hinrich is rejuvinated in his second stint with Chicago, running the point in Rose's absence.

The continuing hard work and development of young players under Thibodeau has also been something to watch for. Taj Gibson is a starter coming off the bench at power forward, and second-year swingman, Jimmy Butler, has become a solid and dependable contributor with potential to be more.

In addition, Chicago has already faced their arch-nemesis and the defending NBA Champs, Miami Heat, (without Rose) once this season in South Beach, leading by nearly 30 points most of the game and finally winning a 96-89 decision. The Bulls will test their depth against the Heat three more times this season, beginning with a February 21st match-up a week after All-Star Weekend.

With the looming return of their star and the growth and cohesion of a team under masterful Coach Thibodeau, Chicago fans are looking at All-Star Weekend like the start to a deep Chicago Bulls playoff run, with DRose back at the helm.

How deep do you think the Chicago Bulls will go this post-season when Derrick Rose returns at full strength? Let us know what you think in the comments below!

Noah, Bulls Dominate Fourth Quarter to Score Season Series Win over 76ers

Philadelphia, PA. A night after a strong effort by Carlos Boozer (24 points, 13 rebounds) was wasted in a five-point loss to the Los Angeles Clippers, the Chicago Bulls were able to put together a team effort in dispatching the Philadelphia 76ers for the second time in two tries this season.

After being dominated in last year's first round playoff series to the 76ers following the devastating injury to MVP point guard Derrick Rose, the Chicago Bulls have been able to handle the 76ers fairly easily in their two meeting so far this season.

Two new members of the Chicago Bulls made big contributions to Wednesday night's victory; Marco Bellineli had 16 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals for the Bulls, and Nate Robinson put in 14 points and 4 assists starting at point guard for Kirk Hinrich, who hurt his left knee the night before against the Clippers and is listed day-to-day.

Joakim Noah had an All-Star statline vs 76ers
(21 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 blocks, 1 steal).

However, the bulk of the load was shouldered by the Chicago Bulls' leading All-Star vote-getters, Luol Deng and Joakim Noah.

Luol Deng had a double-double, going for 19 points, 12 rebounds.

Joakim Noah had an All-Star statline Wednesday night against the 76ers, putting up 21 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 blocks, 1 steal and leading the Chicago Bulls to their 4th straight road win.

"We've been fighting all year, but we've let a lot of games slip," Noah said. "But there's a lot of basketball left and we have to keep playing like this. Back-to-back can be tough if you let it. We fought hard and we had everyone here contribute. That's what you need and I thought we were resilient. We went to the basket hard and we went to the glass hard."

Noah knows about effort and going to the glass hard; last week, the potential All-Star center scored 30 points and grabbed 23 rebounds against the Detroit Pistons. In the absence of MVP Derrick Rose, Noah has stepped up to become a dependable cornerstone and on court leader for the Bulls, and Noah stands a strong chance of being voted as the starting center for the Eastern Conference NBA All-Star Team.

The Bulls' victory clinches a season series win for Chicago; the Bulls and 76ers will meet one more time this season (2/28/13). 

Have you voted for Joakim Noah, Luol Deng, and Your Bulls to the 2013 NBA All-Star Game? Why do you think Joakim Noah deserves to be an All-Star? Comment Below!
 

Chicago Bulls Must Be More Aggressive in Seeking Blockbuster Trade

While the now Brooklyn Nets, formerly of New Jersey, made the big moves that secured them the re-signing of superstar free agent Deron Williams and the Miami Heat seem to have secured the services of ring-chaser Ray Allen, the Chicago Bulls have been quiet in the free agent and trading markets.

While a bold trade kept top free agent, Deron Williams, with the Nets, the Bulls have been gunshy in addressing their biggest problems this off-season.

It has been over two months since the injury to Derrick Rose that completely reshaped the Bulls' fortunes for the immediate and near future. And without having consummated any draft day blockbuster deals, the Chicago Bulls are now quickly entering the void between being a championship contender and being a rebuilding team, i.e. mediocrity.

While a large part of this will be due to the injury to of Derrick Rose, the Bulls are also guilty of having a flaw. While complete as a team, they are still a team centered around a single, spectacular, superstar player. So, although they want to reject the model of building a team around multiple superstars, the Bulls are still reliant on its superstar talent in order to compete at the championship level.

Despite wanting to keep this great group of guys together, the Chicago Bulls must do whatever it takes to get superstar talent. The Rose injury, while costing the Bulls the 2012 NBA Championship, is really a great opportunity to undertake a minor rebuild, while expectations are low, to sell players at their peak to obtain young superstar talent, and to build a dynasty.

The Seattle Supersonics are the most recent example; they parted with their two "stars", Ray Allen and Rashard Lewis, and built a new team through the draft in a 5 year complete rebuilding project. Draft picks that were acquired turned into Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, James Harden, Kendrick Perkins (via trading Jeff Green), and Serge Ibaka-- nearly the entire starting lineup of the team that they took to the 2012 NBA Finals as the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The Oklahoma City Thunder turned All-Stars Ray Allen and Rashard Lewis into much of the starting lineup for their 2012 NBA Finals team.

And while many teams are now trying to duplicate the Oklahoma City Thunder model, the Bulls hardly require a complete rebuild. Some savvy moves to parlay their high-value, high dollar players for young talent (on rookie scale contracts) and draft picks would help the Bulls not only to get below the salary cap (thereby avoiding the luxury tax and associated penalties) but to stretch their window for winning championships.

Rumblings continue about the Sacramento Kings dealing Tyreke Evans for Luol Deng because they were unable to secure a small forward in the draft. After an All-Star season, Deng's value is high right now, and the Bulls should be able to get a draft pick and/ or the inclusion of another young player to make the money work.

With Rose lost for much of the coming season, a move to get younger would also serve an additional purpose. It would be a low-risk way of letting the young players develop and learn Coach Thibodeau's system. In addition, a minor rebuild carries with it lowered expectations for winning, and by missing the playoffs, the Bulls could strike gold again in the lottery. The Bulls could get under the luxury tax while acquiring and developing young talent into the stars they will need to topple the Miami Heat, and others.

The Bulls' front office has been smart in building this Chicago Bulls team while also maintaining attractive trade assets. Now is the time to sell.

State of the Chicago Bulls: 2012 NBA Draft Edition

NEWARK, NJ. The Chicago Bulls went with a familiar formula of drafting a solid player from a strong college program, selecting 6' 2" University of Kentucky Point Guard Marquis Teague with the 29th Overall Pick in the 2012 NBA Draft.

University of Kentucky PG Marquis Teague was selected #29 Overall by the Chicago Bulls.

Teague is a lightning quick creator who, along with #1 Overall Pick, Anthony Davis, and #2 Overall Pick, Michael Kidd-Gilcrist, started for the 2012 National Champions, University of Kentucky, under John Calipari. The Bulls selected another Calipari-coached point guard #1 Overall in 2008-- Derrick Rose.

Marquis Teague averaged 10.0 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game in 2011-2012 for the Wildcats.

Marquis is the younger brother of the Atlanta Hawks Jeff Teague.

Following weeks of speculation that the Bulls might consider a bold reboot due to the expected loss of next season due to Derrick Rose's knee injury and rehab, the Bulls front office blacked out the press in the days before Thursday's NBA Draft.

With the selections before them made, the Chicago Bulls' brain trust allegedly made a bold move of sorts. The Bulls, surprised that Teague (who was listed by ESPN as the #19 talent in the draft), was still available at #29, took a flying leap by selecting him, despite not having had Teague in for private workouts. It was a big gamble for a front office that has been derided in recent days as too conservative, however only time can tell if GarPax made the right selection.

Several players were connected to the Chicago Bulls as the combo guard that would be had at #29 Overall who would also be expected to fill both the huge shoes of the 2011 NBA MVP, Derrick Rose, during his rehab and to fill the starting shooting guard spot next to Rose when he returns. John Jenkins was one player that the Bulls were thought to be targeting, however the Atlanta Hawks ended up selecting Jenkins at #23. With their other targets, the Bulls would have had to reach for second rounders with their #29 First-Round Pick.



While not the bolder, riskier reboot of last season's top seeded team in the NBA Playoffs that many were expecting following trade rumors that centered around Chicago Bulls' starters Luol Deng and Joakim Noah, GarPax took a small risk on a player with National Championship pedigree, and with Rose's extended absence, Teague will have the precious playing time needed to develop. And if Teague develops into a player like brother, Jeff, fans will have a lot to be excited about. Overall, Bulls' management is content with their only pick of the 2012 NBA Draft.

Tell us how you would grade the Chicago Bulls 2012 NBA Draft selection of Marquis Teague! 

With NBA Draft Approaching, Time Running Out For Chicago Bulls Reload

NEWARK, NJ. The 2012 NBA Draft will take place this Thursday night, and will begin with the New Orleans Hornets selecting Anthony Davis with the first overall pick.

After that, there is little certainty about where players will go, just as there is little certainty about what the Chicago Bulls plans are regarding Draft night.

One rumor has the Chicago Bulls sending Luol Deng to Sacramento for Tyreke Evans and the #5 Overall Pick in the 2012 NBA Draft.

Trade rumors have been going back and forth, reaching a fever pitch. Luol Deng and/or Joakim Noah have been linked to deals with the Sacramento Kings, the Los Angeles Lakers, the Houston Rockets, and most recently, the Golden State Warriors.

The Chicago Bulls have been rumored to be looking to acquire a lottery pick along with either an established player or, possibly, a trade exception.

Even Luol Deng has commented that he is unsure about whether he will be traded in one of the many trade scenarios to surface.

Despite Deng being selected for his first All-Star game this last season, the Chicago Bulls have maxed out their salary cap and may be penalized under luxury tax rules starting next season, and while Chicago Bulls ownership is willing to pay the luxury tax for a championship team, Derrick Rose's season ending injury and subsequent rehab seems to promise that the Bulls will not be at the same championship level that they had been playing at for at least several months into the 2012-13 NBA season.

Amidst the numerous trade rumors, the Chicago Bulls' front office has been quiet. However, the Chicago Bulls front office under John Paxson has made a draft night deal in 6 of 8 NBA Drafts, so it might be more surprising if the Bulls do not pull off a deal.

With the Chicago Bulls' future hanging in the balance until Draft Night, fans can only hang on for the ride and think, "In GarPax We Trust".

Chicago Bulls Should Look To Acquire Top 5 Pick in the 2012 NBA Draft

While the Miami Heat are keeping the Chicago Bulls spot in the NBA Finals warm, the Bulls need to make a bold and decisive move in order to guarantee their return to the post season next year. The season-ending injury to Derrick Rose could keep the Bulls' All-Star out for a large part of next season, and so, a return to the playoffs is hardly guaranteed despite earning the best record in the NBA in both of the last two seasons.

Although a solid contributor to league-leading records the past 2 seasons, Chicago Bulls' All-Star Luol Deng may be most valuable in a trade to get the Bulls to the top 5 in the 2012 NBA Draft.

For the Bulls to three-peat with the best record in the NBA and continue to be a Championship-caliber team, the front office must be bold in rebuilding the team to overcome the extended absence of a rehabbing Rose. In addition, the Bulls have contracts which now max out their cap space, and they must consider losing young assets like Omer Asik or go over the salary cap in order to keep them.

With most NBA teams considering off-season moves now, there have been thousands of trade scenarios put out by sports writers everywhere, but here is the move that makes the most sense for the teams involved:

Los Angeles Lakers get:
Luol Deng ($12.3M)-- All-Star ( Career 16.0 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 2.3 APG)

Sacramento Kings get:
Pau Gasol ($18.7M)-- All-Star (Career 18.7 PPG, 9.2 RPG, 1.7 BPG)

Chicago Bulls get:
Tyreke Evans ($4.2M)-- 2010 Rookie of the Year (Career 18.2 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 5.3 APG)
SAC #5 Pick in 2012 NBA Draft

Tyreke Evans, the 2010 Rookie of the Year, is currently on the trading block and would be a great stand in for Derrick Rose.

Deng is an NBA All-Star whose game is unselfish and focuses on defense and offensive efficiency. He is a good passer, a great rebounder, and his range out to the 3-point line would stretch the defense (36.7% 3-point shooting percentage), opening up the inside for Bynum in the post and giving Bryant driving lanes to get to the basket. Deng's game would better complement Kobe's and Bynum's.

Pau Gasol is an NBA All-Star whom the Lakers had included in the failed trade to the New Orleans Hornets for Chris Paul. The Lakers' early playoff exit this postseason would indicate the need for shaking things up, and as Kobe Bryant and Andrew Bynum are considered untradeable by the Laker front office, that leaves Gasol as the odd man out.

Tyreke Evans was the 2010 NBA Rookie of the Year while playing the point guard position for a rebuilding Sacramento Kings franchise. His 20 points, 5 rebound, 5 assist averages during his rookie campaign were eye-popping, but just imagine if he could move over to his more natural shooting guard position. With the emergence of Sacramento rookie point guard, Isaiah Thomas, the team has been looking to unload Evans.

With the #5 Pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, the Bulls would have the chance to select one of several solid future NBA contributors, and potential superstar:

Andre Drummond  (7' 0", C, UConn)
Michael Kidd-Gilcrist (6' 7", SF, Kentucky)
Harrison Barnes (6' 8", SF, North Carolina)
Bradley Beal (6' 5", SG, Florida)
Jeremy Lamb (6' 5", SG, UConn)


While Luol Deng has not shown that he can carry a team, Tyreke Evans did it his rookie season. Tyreke Evans would be a phenomenal stand in for Derrick Rose during his rehab, and Evans can then slide over to the Shooting Guard position upon Rose's return, giving the Bulls two attacking offensive options. Jimmy Butler has shown flashes of brilliance, and with a 66-game rookie season under his belt, he should have the opportunity to show what he can do.

Meanwhile, the player drafted by the Bulls at #5 will have the chance to develop in a great team environment, learning from 2011 Coach of the Year, Tom Thibodeau. Michael Kidd-Gilcrist or Harrison Barnes could foreseeably slide right into the Small Forward spot, if they can live up to their draft hype. Another player would maintain the depth of talent and contribution that have been hallmarks of the Chicago Bulls under Thibodeau. Although it would be difficult to lose Deng, the Bulls need to make a bold move in order to create more distance between themselves and Miami, as well as, match the talent of teams like Oklahoma City, and this is the deal that could accomplish all these objectives.

Let us know your thoughts by commenting below! Would you trade Luol Deng for Tyreke Evans and SAC #5 Overall Pick?

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Chicago Bulls' Balance, Defense, and Hustle Shuts Down Wade and James, Earns Game 1 Victory in Blowout

CHICAGO, IL. In just two days since the #1 seeded Chicago Bulls won their way into the Eastern Conference Finals to face the awaiting Miami Heat, the entire sports broadcasting world (as well as, the gambling world) seems to have decided that the Bulls' regular season sweep of the Heat does not count anymore now that it is the postseason.

Taj Gibson was electrifying off the bench with several huge plays including a monsterous dunk on the head of Dwayne Wade that energized the team and the crowd.

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After watching the Heat barely beat a geriatric Boston Celtics team with an injured point guard and no inside intimidator, ESPN's prognosticators somehow figure that the Heat have gotten better and have the Miami Heat moving on to the NBA Finals. Even Vegas has been favoring the Miami Heat.

But wait a second! The Chicago Bulls loved being the underdog! They cruised to the best record in basketball, mostly under the radar, until they played a Miami Heat team at full strength, beat them, and made them cry.

If that doesn't sound familiar, then maybe Game 1 would be the reminder that everyone needed.

Miami was able to hang in with the Bulls through the first half, going to the locker room tied at 48 - 48. The Heat probably felt pretty confident coming out of the locker room for the second half, but soon, they didn't know what hit them.

After trading baskets for the first 5 minutes of the 3rd, back to back threes by Derrick Rose and then Keith Bogans were part of a 10 - 0 run by the Bulls that helped them to seize the largest lead of the game.

Meanwhile, the Bulls' defense got downright stingy; the Bulls allowed only 5 points in the final 7:35 of the 3rd quarter, holding the Heat to only 15 points in the quarter.

The Bulls' defense smothered the Heat, allowing Wade only 18 pts on 17 shots and James only 15 pts on 15 shots in a masterful effort.

The Bulls' defense continued to clamp down to begin the 4th quarter, allowing only 3 more points in the first 4:12 on a Lebron James 3-pointer.

During that span, the Bulls got contributions from everyone in their 10-deep rotation, and they were able to amass a 17 point lead with 7:48 left in the game.

Despite their talents, the Heat weren't able to mount a run of their own, and they ended up falling to the Bulls, 103 - 82.

The MVP, Derrick Rose, led the Bulls in scoring, finishing with 28 points, 1 reb, 6 assists.

Luol Deng was magnificent, putting in 21 points, 7 reb, 2 assists, 4 steals, while holding his primary defensive assignment, Lebron James, to a mere 15 points on 5 of 15 shooting.

Dwayne Wade was also held significantly below his playoff averages. Was it the stifling Bulls' defense or the embarassing facial he received from Taj Gibson in the first half? No doubt that it will be a highlight of this Chicago Bulls' championship run.

Here are HIGHLIGHTS of THE CHICAGO BULLS vs. MIAMI HEAT, 2011 NBA PLAYOFFS EASTERN CONFERENCE FINALS, GAME 1:


Will the Bulls blowout the "NBA second-round champion" Miami Heat in Game 2?

Rose Lets His Game Do The Talking Once Again, Has 36 Points, 10 Assists To Lead Bulls To 3 Game Lead Over Idle Heat

CHICAGO, IL. Rose remembers the last time his Bulls played the Toronto Raptors; the Raptors celebrated their win a little too much for Rose's taste, and he didn't like that.

Teams around the league are learning that you don't want to make Derrick Rose remember you or make him upset with you. You won't like the payback.

Derrick Rose got his revenge on the Raps as they visited the United Center tonight to the tune of 36 points, 10 assists, 3 rebounds, 1 steal, and 3 blocks.

Here are some highlights that we can show you (BEWARE: Some of this footage contains broken ankles and other sick stuff we've come to expect from DRose!):


It was a complete all around game for the NBA MVP leader, who didn't have to do it alone tonight.

Despite missing Joakim Noah for another game, Carlos Boozer (18 pts, 10 reb, 3 ast), Luol Deng (17 pts, 3 reb, 4 ast), Taj Gibson (15 pts, 9 reb), and Kyle Korver (10 pts on 2 of 3 from 3-point range) all chipped into the Bulls' offensive barrage.

DRose challenged the Raptors with his strength and speed to post 36 points, 10 assists to add to his case for NBA MVP.

The Bulls dominated the first half of the game leading by as much as 13. However, the Raptors fought back in the 3rd quarter to erase the Bulls lead, knotting the game at 74 - 74, before the Bulls managed to regain the advantage and push the lead back up to double digits.

The Raptors kept fighting getting to within 4 points in the 4th quarter before finally succumbing. Jerryd Bayless and DeMar Derozan each had 26 points to lead the Raptors.

The play of the night had to be the recovery by Rose to get back on defense after the turnover and him rising up and blocking James Johnson's shot at the very top of its path. It was an unkind "Welcome Back to Chicago" for James Johnson, a former Chicago Bull, who was traded this season to the Toronto Raptors just before the trade deadline for Miami's 2011 1st Round Draft Pick.

Other than the blocked shot by DRose, Johnson had a respectable game, finishing with 7 points, 5 rebounds, 6 assists in his return to the United Center after being traded.

The victory was the Chicago Bulls' 56th win of the season, helping Tom Thibodeau surpass Phil Jackson's record for being Chicago's winningest first-year coach, possibly the first of many records and accolades to be garnered by Derrick Rose, Thibodeau, and the Chicago Bulls this season.

The win also pushes the Bulls lead for first place in the Eastern Conference to 3 full games over Miami and 3.5 games over Boston. With only six games remaining in the Chicago Bulls 2010-11 regular season, the doubters, the Boston Celtics, and the Miami Heat are all running out of the same thing... time.

Bulls Waste 42 Points and Jordan-esque Effort By Rose and Lose To Pacers In Overtime

INDIANAPOLIS, IN. This one is going to sting for a while for the self-critical NBA MVP leader Derrick Rose, although the truth is, what more can one man do?

On a night where the Bulls were without starter Carlos Boozer and the Bulls' usually deep bench shot a combined 9 for 28 (32%) from the field AND the Bulls went into the 4th quarter trailing by 16 points, the Bulls ended up having a chance to win this game.

After Michael Jordan sang his praises less than one week ago, presumptive NBA MVP Derrick Rose did his best homage to the NBA legend by taking over the fourth quarter for the languishing Bulls.

DRose poured in 19 points in the 4th quarter to force OT and matched his career-high with 42 points for the game.

With the Bulls looking up at a 16 point deficit to end the 3rd quarter, Rose knew it was time for him to take over. In Jordan-eque fashion, Rose scored 19 of the Bulls 29 points in the 4th quarter, including sinking 3 from the free throw line with 1.2 seconds remaining to tie the game up at 102 - 102, and force overtime.

It seems that Rose was spent from the effort as the Bulls were outscored in the overtime period 6 - 13 by Indiana. Rose scored 4 of the 6 points in OT to finish with 42 points, to tie his career high, along with 4 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 block.

Luol Deng was the second highest scorer for the Bulls with 21 points on 7 of 18 shooting, but he shot a combined 0 for 5 from the field in the 4th quarter and overtime.

A lot of credit is due to the Indiana Pacers, who currently hold the 8th and final playoff spot in the East and who may have approached this as a statement game against the Bulls. Chicago, if they win the race for 1st place in the East, would then have to face the Pacers in the first round of the playoffs.

For now, the loss drops Chicago back into a statistical tie with Boston, pending the outcome of their matchup with the Houston Rockets tonight.