Today, Gar Foreman confirmed that the Bulls will not match Houston's offer sheet to Omer Asik, making Asik a Rocket. This announcement came in the wake of moves that left Kyle Korver a Hawk, C.J. Watson a Net, and Ronnie Brewer a Knick. Taj Gibson is the only reserve player of note who will be on the team in both 2012 and 2013
Mat is obviously disheartened by the moves, which suggest that the Bulls aren't willing to spend big to surround the current roster with the best supporting pieces . Some say (including Foreman himself) that the Bulls are simply trying to maintain their financial flexibility; in a universe in which the well-over-the-tax Lakers acquired Steve Nash and are the frontrunners for Dwight Howard, that's a hard pill to swallow.
Mat tried justifying these moves as a necessary evil after accepting that hard truth. After all, if Reinsdorf isn't going to pay for a contender, you have to build the best team within those constraints. Watson ended up signing for the minimum once the Bulls waived him. Brewer will also likely sign for the minimum, as that's all the Knicks can offer. Korver, who was traded, had value as an expiring contract, but also probably would have seen a paycut had he hit free agency.
Mat is still upset about the loss of these guys since they were 1) under contract for only one year and 2) expiring contracts, broken into manageable salaries across three players. They're the type of filler used to balance a trade for a Great Player in a deal centered around assets (Nikola Mirotic, Bobcats pick) and rookie-contract players (Taj Gibson). The Bulls didn't create long or short-term flexibility by letting those three go. They actually reduced their flexibility for a one-year financial windfall.
Still, Mat thinks not matching Asik was a move the team had to make considering the Bulls' financial crunch. Asik was a great defender, but unless Foreman and Paxson thought he would be a better overall player than Joakim Noah, they couldn't afford to keep him. You can't set a limit on your spending and then pay a backup $8 million a year. A team that won't spend more than ~$74 million simply cannot spend $20 million on a position at which they do not have a superstar.
Picking up solid, uninspiring guys like Kirk Hinrich, Vladimir Radmanovic, Nazr Mohammed and Marco Belinelli is the road the Bulls have to take. The bench will win fewer games for the team in the regular season, but the Bulls can't afford that luxury. And make no mistakes: it is a luxury. In the postseason, the bench won't be picking apart the Norris Coles and Juwan Howards of the world; when superstars are playing 40+ minutes a game, the strength that is the Bench Mob is all but neutralized.
It was an amazing unit to watch, and in a perfect world, they'd still be in Chicago. It's time to face facts, though: the Bulls have to find a way to best divide their regrettably limited resources. In building a championship contender, Mat believes they're best served concentrating those resources into a tighter, 7-8 man rotation.
Now, if you'll excuse him, Mat will spend the next 24 hours hitting "C.J. Watson", "Gimme the hot sauce", "Chicago's Finest Brew", "Asik and Destroy", and "C.J. Watson (excited)" in a steady loop while sobbing softly to himself.
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Bulls Agree To Terms With Radmanovic
According to CSN's David Kaplan, the Bulls and Vladimir Radmanovic have come to terms on a new deal to bring the big Yugoslavian to Chicago.
Mat's not exactly thrilled about this one, but he has a hard time being upset about it.
Radmanovic isn't really a scoring threat aside from his stellar ability to knock down the three. He's a career 38% three point shooter, but averaged just 4.5 points for the Hawks a year ago.
Knock down the occasional three, and he's on Mat's good side. Get blown by on defense, you'll hear one of those patented Mat squeals.
Does he replace Korver? No. But the man can shoot.
The numbers are not available yet, but the expectation is that he gets the veteran minimum. Therefore, this is a low risk move.
Mat's not exactly thrilled about this one, but he has a hard time being upset about it.
Radmanovic isn't really a scoring threat aside from his stellar ability to knock down the three. He's a career 38% three point shooter, but averaged just 4.5 points for the Hawks a year ago.
Knock down the occasional three, and he's on Mat's good side. Get blown by on defense, you'll hear one of those patented Mat squeals.
Does he replace Korver? No. But the man can shoot.
The numbers are not available yet, but the expectation is that he gets the veteran minimum. Therefore, this is a low risk move.
The Jimmy Butler Effect
Through 2 games in the NBA Summer League Jimmy Butler has been the star of the Bulls squad.
Tonight Butler amassed 24 points while grabbing 7 rebounds and was a tremendous 8-8 from the foul line.
He's been drawing thee point plays, he's been all over the glass, and he's doing a majority of the scoring while out there.
Butler is going to be a key guy for the Bulls this coming season. Whith the former Bench Mob now almost completely depleted, Butler and Gibson will be the guys who are going to be expected to inject energy into the game as the second unit.
Mat would love to see Jimmy put the ball in the hoop a little bit more, like he's been doing in Summer League, to go along with his excellent defensive work.
Butler's offensive game is going to have a major effect on how successful the Bulls second unit is. If he can't score, it's going to be all up to Taj.
Butler has a chance to be a nice release valve for the pressure Gibson will carry while out there with the subs, if he can do it, you may be looking at a new, younger, version of the Bench Mob.
Mat expects a lot out of Jimmy this year, hopefully his expectations can be met.
Tonight Butler amassed 24 points while grabbing 7 rebounds and was a tremendous 8-8 from the foul line.
He's been drawing thee point plays, he's been all over the glass, and he's doing a majority of the scoring while out there.
Butler is going to be a key guy for the Bulls this coming season. Whith the former Bench Mob now almost completely depleted, Butler and Gibson will be the guys who are going to be expected to inject energy into the game as the second unit.
Mat would love to see Jimmy put the ball in the hoop a little bit more, like he's been doing in Summer League, to go along with his excellent defensive work.
Butler's offensive game is going to have a major effect on how successful the Bulls second unit is. If he can't score, it's going to be all up to Taj.
Butler has a chance to be a nice release valve for the pressure Gibson will carry while out there with the subs, if he can do it, you may be looking at a new, younger, version of the Bench Mob.
Mat expects a lot out of Jimmy this year, hopefully his expectations can be met.
CJ to Nets, JL3 to Raptors
Watson is headed to New Jersey, and it appears as though John Lucas III is close to a deal with the Raptors.
What does this mean to Mat?
We'll be seeing a lot of these guys in the coming years.
Both will fill in backup roles for their respective teams in the Eastern Conference, and both will likely be gunning for the Bulls each and every time they visit.
Mat was impressed with the professionalism both showed when they exited, but he knows deep down both guys would have loved to stay, and both were irked a little bit by the Teague pick.
Mat hates when players have vendettas against the Bulls. All these guys are professional athletes, and are incredibly talented, but when you give them a little more to play for, they can become really dangerous.
Both guys will earn a standing O from Mat when they each return, but from then on, Mat hopes the Bulls are able to bottle them up like the Sixers did last May.
What does this mean to Mat?
We'll be seeing a lot of these guys in the coming years.
Both will fill in backup roles for their respective teams in the Eastern Conference, and both will likely be gunning for the Bulls each and every time they visit.
Mat was impressed with the professionalism both showed when they exited, but he knows deep down both guys would have loved to stay, and both were irked a little bit by the Teague pick.
Mat hates when players have vendettas against the Bulls. All these guys are professional athletes, and are incredibly talented, but when you give them a little more to play for, they can become really dangerous.
Both guys will earn a standing O from Mat when they each return, but from then on, Mat hopes the Bulls are able to bottle them up like the Sixers did last May.
Preseason Schedule
The Bulls have released their preseason schedule which includes 7 games, 4 of which are at home and 2 that are neutral.
The entire schedule can be found here.
7 preseason games is not out of the norm, but Mat is quite surprised, and pleased, that none of them are further away than Minnesota.
Champaign, South Bend, Minnesota, and the UC. Not too bad.
Mat never puts too much stock into the preseason, and he will repeat this many times come October 9th when we tip it up for the first time, but he's happy to see the team will not be jetlagged to begin the year.
Most teams don't travel much during preseason. But most teams do play more than 1 of their preseason games away from home.
The real news out of all of this, basketball is coming. Just 83 days to go until Mat gets to see his beloved Bulls back in action at the United Center.
The entire schedule can be found here.
7 preseason games is not out of the norm, but Mat is quite surprised, and pleased, that none of them are further away than Minnesota.
Champaign, South Bend, Minnesota, and the UC. Not too bad.
Mat never puts too much stock into the preseason, and he will repeat this many times come October 9th when we tip it up for the first time, but he's happy to see the team will not be jetlagged to begin the year.
Most teams don't travel much during preseason. But most teams do play more than 1 of their preseason games away from home.
The real news out of all of this, basketball is coming. Just 83 days to go until Mat gets to see his beloved Bulls back in action at the United Center.
Darko
With the Asik offer soon to be officially signed, the Bulls have apparently begun trying to explore other options as a possible replacement should they choose not to match the offer.
The latest name is Darko Milicic. Darko is the former 2nd overall pick of the Detroit Pistons and the kind of bust that is largely the reason why the Pistons are just now getting back into contention.
Milicic is a 7 footer who has bounced around the league with stops in Detroit, Orlando, Memphis, New York, and Minnesota. Mat thinks he never found a home because he's never been good enough for the same team to offer him a contract twice.
Mat's not too keen to the idea of Milicic replacing Asik. They are similar players today, but Omer's upside is much much greater.
Yes, Mat understands that the third year of Omer's contract will pay him ludicrous money, but for the first two, Omer is reasonanbly priced, and can only get better.
If the Bulls do decide not to sign the Asik offer sheet, Milicic is not the worst option in the world. But if you were to put the two next to each other and let Mat pick, Omer's the man.
The latest name is Darko Milicic. Darko is the former 2nd overall pick of the Detroit Pistons and the kind of bust that is largely the reason why the Pistons are just now getting back into contention.
Milicic is a 7 footer who has bounced around the league with stops in Detroit, Orlando, Memphis, New York, and Minnesota. Mat thinks he never found a home because he's never been good enough for the same team to offer him a contract twice.
Mat's not too keen to the idea of Milicic replacing Asik. They are similar players today, but Omer's upside is much much greater.
Yes, Mat understands that the third year of Omer's contract will pay him ludicrous money, but for the first two, Omer is reasonanbly priced, and can only get better.
If the Bulls do decide not to sign the Asik offer sheet, Milicic is not the worst option in the world. But if you were to put the two next to each other and let Mat pick, Omer's the man.
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Plan 2014
Let's for a minute say the Bulls make the deal for Ridnour, sign the Asik offer sheet, and amnesty Boozer in 2 years.
That leaves the team with a very interesting cap situation come 2014.
They would essentially have enough to add another max level player to the mix to compete with Rose, Noah, and Taj. (Mat leaves Deng's name off this list because he sees the other three as the Bulls true future.)
So, who's out there in 2014? How about Zach Randolph? Like the idea of a dominant post man playing along side Noah in the front court with Rose running the show?
What about Kevin Love? He has an opt out clause in 2014. Rose and Love in a pick and roll. Mat's dreams don't even excite him as much as that.
Mat's terrified of the idea of testing the free agent waters again and possibly getting burned, but the thought of giving this team a chance for a year or two more, and then set up nicely for a big off season intrigues Mat quite a bit.
If you could guarantee Mat Z-Bo or Love along with Rose, Noah, and Gibson, he might be willing to do all that's necessary over the next two years, including possibly missing the postseason here or there, to make it happen.
But the fact is, free agency is never a sure thing, so Mat would rather see Gar and Pax keep Plan 2014 on the back burner and more of a fallback plan than the true direction the franchise is heading.
That leaves the team with a very interesting cap situation come 2014.
They would essentially have enough to add another max level player to the mix to compete with Rose, Noah, and Taj. (Mat leaves Deng's name off this list because he sees the other three as the Bulls true future.)
So, who's out there in 2014? How about Zach Randolph? Like the idea of a dominant post man playing along side Noah in the front court with Rose running the show?
What about Kevin Love? He has an opt out clause in 2014. Rose and Love in a pick and roll. Mat's dreams don't even excite him as much as that.
Mat's terrified of the idea of testing the free agent waters again and possibly getting burned, but the thought of giving this team a chance for a year or two more, and then set up nicely for a big off season intrigues Mat quite a bit.
If you could guarantee Mat Z-Bo or Love along with Rose, Noah, and Gibson, he might be willing to do all that's necessary over the next two years, including possibly missing the postseason here or there, to make it happen.
But the fact is, free agency is never a sure thing, so Mat would rather see Gar and Pax keep Plan 2014 on the back burner and more of a fallback plan than the true direction the franchise is heading.
Korver for Ridnour Not the Best Idea
The latest rumors surrounding the Kyle Korver situation include the Bulls adding former Oregon standout, Luke Ridnour.
Mat is never fond of players that need to be described using their collegiate careers as it often means the player has not had much success in the league.
Luke Ridnour fits the bill. He averages a respectable 9.9 points per game, but has never really lived up to being 14th overall pick quality.
Mat likes Ridnour's ability to knock down the occasional three (shoots 36% from three on career), and enjoys the idea of adding another guard who can play defense.
He also likes the fact that Ridnour would add yet another veteran presence to the squad without adding a ton of salary. Ridnour signed a 4 year $16 million contract with the T-Wolves in 2010. This means that his contract is set to expire in 2014, which as Mat's man KC Johnson says, "would jibe with the 2014 plan."
But Mat still thinks the Bulls are better suited hanging on to Korver instead of moving him for a player like Ridnour. It would save a bit of money, but the loss of Kover's talents would outweigh what Ridnour brings to the table.
Mat is never fond of players that need to be described using their collegiate careers as it often means the player has not had much success in the league.
Luke Ridnour fits the bill. He averages a respectable 9.9 points per game, but has never really lived up to being 14th overall pick quality.
Mat likes Ridnour's ability to knock down the occasional three (shoots 36% from three on career), and enjoys the idea of adding another guard who can play defense.
He also likes the fact that Ridnour would add yet another veteran presence to the squad without adding a ton of salary. Ridnour signed a 4 year $16 million contract with the T-Wolves in 2010. This means that his contract is set to expire in 2014, which as Mat's man KC Johnson says, "would jibe with the 2014 plan."
But Mat still thinks the Bulls are better suited hanging on to Korver instead of moving him for a player like Ridnour. It would save a bit of money, but the loss of Kover's talents would outweigh what Ridnour brings to the table.
Kyle Korver Konundrum
Before Mat gets into what the Bulls may get in return on a possible move of Kyle Korver, he wants to explain why losing Korver would have a much different impact than Watson. Brewer, or Lucas.
The Bench Mob is gone. We know that. So it's now time to look at what that collection of players was, and see what kind of replacements are needed to fill in the void.
The way Mat sees it, the Bench Mob was a collection of energy. They brought a passion for the game, and a passion for defending that shocked a lot of the Bulls opponents.
But what also came in when the second string hit the court was a killer three point shooter. A skill that transcends energy.
Korver spread the floor and forced defenses to extend to cover the arc. And what was nice about Kyle was that he was able to do this as part of that Bench Mob, but also with the starters.
Korver's skill is a somewhat rare one in this league. Drop dead, knock down, three point shooters are not exactly a dime a dozen. There are probably less than 10 of them in the NBA, so losing Korver would certainly hurt.
However, Mat grew frustrated at times when the offense would rely on Korver. Kyle would become the focal point of the offense and it would sputter when the other team figured it out (which usually took less than one possesion).
So on that token, Mat believes the offense both with the starters and with the second unit might improve with Korver's departure.
However, the knowledge that we have a dominant long range shooter in the arsenal goes with him. Which concerns Mat quite a bit.
The Bench Mob is gone. We know that. So it's now time to look at what that collection of players was, and see what kind of replacements are needed to fill in the void.
The way Mat sees it, the Bench Mob was a collection of energy. They brought a passion for the game, and a passion for defending that shocked a lot of the Bulls opponents.
But what also came in when the second string hit the court was a killer three point shooter. A skill that transcends energy.
Korver spread the floor and forced defenses to extend to cover the arc. And what was nice about Kyle was that he was able to do this as part of that Bench Mob, but also with the starters.
Korver's skill is a somewhat rare one in this league. Drop dead, knock down, three point shooters are not exactly a dime a dozen. There are probably less than 10 of them in the NBA, so losing Korver would certainly hurt.
However, Mat grew frustrated at times when the offense would rely on Korver. Kyle would become the focal point of the offense and it would sputter when the other team figured it out (which usually took less than one possesion).
So on that token, Mat believes the offense both with the starters and with the second unit might improve with Korver's departure.
However, the knowledge that we have a dominant long range shooter in the arsenal goes with him. Which concerns Mat quite a bit.
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
It's Summer League Time
Bryan Crawford of NBC Chicago passes along information regarding the Bulls upcoming NBA Summer League venture, which will be taking place in Las Vegas. You may remember last season this was cancelled because of the lockout, but this is an otherwise annual occurrence in the NBA offseason.
The roster breaks down like this:
Jimmy Butler, Marquis Teague, Demetri McCamey, Leon Powe, and a bunch of random clowns whose names can be found within the article. For those unfamiliar, the NBA Summer League is less a time for compeition, but more a time for players to showcase their talents to the NBA execs/scouts who are watching on.
Mat likes this for various reasons. Partially because he gets to lounge around, eating cheese while watching mediocre basketball. But mostly because he gets his Bulls fix. He is very interested in seeing Marquis Teague donning the black and red for the first time and witnessing his perceived first round skills.
Mat expects Jimmy Butler to dominate over the course of the 4 games the Bulls are playing (July 17th vs. Celtics, 18th vs. Rockets, 20th vs. Warriors, and 21st vs. Clippers) as Butler's role is expected to be heavily increased this upcoming season because of the departure of Ronnie Brewer.
Also included in this bunch is former Celtics second round pick, Leon Powe. Powe has had numerous knee issues in the past, but has been known to explode in previous NBA games. Mat is interested to see what this 4 year NBA vet has left in the tank.
Last, and certainly least, Mat wants to see what Demetri McCamey has left. Purely because of the fact that Mat believes McCamey to be the biggest waste of basketball talent this side of Kwame Brown. Mat remembers fondly hearing of his fantastic performances while playing at the University of Illinois, only to be undone by his reputation to be lazy and unable to be coached.
Mat doesn't expect much out of the latter two, but knows big things should come out of the first two mentioned. Hopefully the basketball is bearable, and the Bulls front office learns a little bit more about their team before the season starts up.
The roster breaks down like this:
Jimmy Butler, Marquis Teague, Demetri McCamey, Leon Powe, and a bunch of random clowns whose names can be found within the article. For those unfamiliar, the NBA Summer League is less a time for compeition, but more a time for players to showcase their talents to the NBA execs/scouts who are watching on.
Mat likes this for various reasons. Partially because he gets to lounge around, eating cheese while watching mediocre basketball. But mostly because he gets his Bulls fix. He is very interested in seeing Marquis Teague donning the black and red for the first time and witnessing his perceived first round skills.
Mat expects Jimmy Butler to dominate over the course of the 4 games the Bulls are playing (July 17th vs. Celtics, 18th vs. Rockets, 20th vs. Warriors, and 21st vs. Clippers) as Butler's role is expected to be heavily increased this upcoming season because of the departure of Ronnie Brewer.
Also included in this bunch is former Celtics second round pick, Leon Powe. Powe has had numerous knee issues in the past, but has been known to explode in previous NBA games. Mat is interested to see what this 4 year NBA vet has left in the tank.
Last, and certainly least, Mat wants to see what Demetri McCamey has left. Purely because of the fact that Mat believes McCamey to be the biggest waste of basketball talent this side of Kwame Brown. Mat remembers fondly hearing of his fantastic performances while playing at the University of Illinois, only to be undone by his reputation to be lazy and unable to be coached.
Mat doesn't expect much out of the latter two, but knows big things should come out of the first two mentioned. Hopefully the basketball is bearable, and the Bulls front office learns a little bit more about their team before the season starts up.
Monday, July 9, 2012
Bye Bye To The Bench Mob
Mat's thoughts recently have been filled with retrospect and nostalgia regarding his beloved, "Bench Mob." Although, the majority of Bulls fans have known for a while this offseason would introduce much change to the bench at the Madhouse, the closer the change comes to reality, the harder it is for Mat to come to grips with the loss.
Salary constraints are to be blamed in this situation in addition to a few other reasons. With the drafting of Teague and reintroduction of Hinrich to the franchise, C.J. Watson and John Lucas III are going to be left searching for a new franchise. Ronnie Brewer is also said to be gone, with Mat seeing a silver lining in Jimmy Butler gobbling up the majority of his minutes.
Kyle Korver is the player who leaves the most to be questioned. While nothing is certain for any of the previously mentioned Bench Mob, the Bulls seem to be waiting till the last second to make a decision on Korver's $5 million option.
Mat doesn't see him staying either. $5 million is a lot for a one dimensional player; keeping in mind the salary cap shadow that is hovering the franchise as it is.
While Mat is definitely sad seeing some of these key role players go, he is also excited to see what GarPax are made of. He knows you won't see any big moves out of the Bulls this offseason, but sometimes the minor moves are the ones that win you championships.
The pressure is on GarPax to rebuild this new Bench Mob with talent. Hopefully surrounding the Bulls core with enough of it to take them to the promise land.
Salary constraints are to be blamed in this situation in addition to a few other reasons. With the drafting of Teague and reintroduction of Hinrich to the franchise, C.J. Watson and John Lucas III are going to be left searching for a new franchise. Ronnie Brewer is also said to be gone, with Mat seeing a silver lining in Jimmy Butler gobbling up the majority of his minutes.
Kyle Korver is the player who leaves the most to be questioned. While nothing is certain for any of the previously mentioned Bench Mob, the Bulls seem to be waiting till the last second to make a decision on Korver's $5 million option.
Mat doesn't see him staying either. $5 million is a lot for a one dimensional player; keeping in mind the salary cap shadow that is hovering the franchise as it is.
While Mat is definitely sad seeing some of these key role players go, he is also excited to see what GarPax are made of. He knows you won't see any big moves out of the Bulls this offseason, but sometimes the minor moves are the ones that win you championships.
The pressure is on GarPax to rebuild this new Bench Mob with talent. Hopefully surrounding the Bulls core with enough of it to take them to the promise land.
JL3 Talking to the Heat
Mat likes John Lucas and cannot thank him enough for that glorious moment when he nailed that shot over #6 and helped the Bulls win that game over the Heat at the United Center last March.
This being said, Mat would absolutely love to see JL3 in that hideous all black uniform next season.
Why would Mat wish this upon a man he likes? Because John Lucas loves the basketball, and loves to heave shots towards the rim.
Sure he scores from time to time, but there's only one ball, and the more shots JL3 takes for the Heat, the fewer for #6, Wade, Bosh, or Ray Allen.
Mat was shocked that he read that the Heat were even interested. But I guess that goes to show what kind of impression he made on the Miami front office in those couple of meetings.
It's not going to happen, but Mat will let out a cheer mixed with laugh if it does.
This being said, Mat would absolutely love to see JL3 in that hideous all black uniform next season.
Why would Mat wish this upon a man he likes? Because John Lucas loves the basketball, and loves to heave shots towards the rim.
Sure he scores from time to time, but there's only one ball, and the more shots JL3 takes for the Heat, the fewer for #6, Wade, Bosh, or Ray Allen.
Mat was shocked that he read that the Heat were even interested. But I guess that goes to show what kind of impression he made on the Miami front office in those couple of meetings.
It's not going to happen, but Mat will let out a cheer mixed with laugh if it does.
#6 Disrepects Derrick
While speaking about the Team USA Olympic roster, #6 made a comment about the team that Mat believes was a direct shot at Derrick Rose.
"There's nothing that we don't have on this roster."
That was the quote from #6 after being asked about Derrick not being a part of the team.
Mat will never shy away from a chance to attack #6, but this one is almost too ridiculous to even get mad about.
#6 is just an idiot. He can't say the right thing. Why would you take a shot at a Chicago player when being questioned by Chicago media? How stupid is this guy?
If Derrick was asked the same question in a hypothetical world in which #6 was hurt, Derrick would have lauded #6's talents and said how much they miss a player like that.
Exactly what Kobe, Kevin Love, Russell Westbrook, and Kevin Durant ALL said about Derrick.
#6 just doesn't get it. He wants so much to be liked, but he doesn't know how to. It seems like every week there's another story about how this guy said something or did something (cough, the decision, cough) that alienates him to a collection of fans.
Whether he meant this one or not, which Mat thinks he probably is too dumb to realize what he actually said, he's now hated even more in Chicago than he was before.
Way to go #6, can't wait to see ya on your next visit to the UC.
"There's nothing that we don't have on this roster."
That was the quote from #6 after being asked about Derrick not being a part of the team.
Mat will never shy away from a chance to attack #6, but this one is almost too ridiculous to even get mad about.
#6 is just an idiot. He can't say the right thing. Why would you take a shot at a Chicago player when being questioned by Chicago media? How stupid is this guy?
If Derrick was asked the same question in a hypothetical world in which #6 was hurt, Derrick would have lauded #6's talents and said how much they miss a player like that.
Exactly what Kobe, Kevin Love, Russell Westbrook, and Kevin Durant ALL said about Derrick.
#6 just doesn't get it. He wants so much to be liked, but he doesn't know how to. It seems like every week there's another story about how this guy said something or did something (cough, the decision, cough) that alienates him to a collection of fans.
Whether he meant this one or not, which Mat thinks he probably is too dumb to realize what he actually said, he's now hated even more in Chicago than he was before.
Way to go #6, can't wait to see ya on your next visit to the UC.
A Comment From Taj Has Mat Terrified
In an article on ESPN Chicago featuring Taj Gibson talking about his Olympic experience, and the possible addition of Kirk Hinrich, Taj made a comment that, while seemingly harmless, scares Mat.
Here's what Taj said,
The article goes on to say Rose isn't expected back until "January at the earliest." But Mat has this funny feeling that the Bulls players don't actually believe it.
Maybe it's a mindset thing that the guys are trying to get in so that it's a bonus when Derrick comes back and not an expectation. But it scares the mouse poop out of Mat.
Here's what Taj said,
"But at the same time you've got to look at the aspect of it's the NBA, it's a business as a whole and I hope they can get it done because I know Kirk is a great player and it would help our team out a lot, especially right now in this season without Derrick."Season without Derrick. That came directly out of Taj Gibson's mouth. What this leads Mat to believe is that the Bulls roster does not expect to have Derrick back at any point this year. Otherwise, wouldn't he have said, for a potion of the season.
The article goes on to say Rose isn't expected back until "January at the earliest." But Mat has this funny feeling that the Bulls players don't actually believe it.
Maybe it's a mindset thing that the guys are trying to get in so that it's a bonus when Derrick comes back and not an expectation. But it scares the mouse poop out of Mat.
Safe Not Sorry
It seemed to make sense to most, and now we know that it made sense to Gar and Pax, Kirk Hinrich will be back in the Bulls back court. Well, sources say.
Mat sees this as the safe move. Smart move, but also safe and somewhat easy.
Kirk is a pro, and he has Mat's trust. He's not going to wow anybody, but he's also not going to make some of the mistakes we saw from C.J. and JL3 while either one of them was running the show.
Hinrich will work hard every day and be an excellent role model to Teague and even Rose.
He'll be able to fill in for Derrick for the time being, and then when Rose does return, Kirk will be a fine fill in when D-Rose needs a breather.
Defensively Hinrich is an upgrade over anything the Bulls have thrown out there since, well, Kirk Hinrich.
Mat just needs to find a way to flush out the memories of Kirk on bad Bulls teams, and see him as an added piece to an already good Bulls team. This will take time.
Mat likes the move. Even if it does seem somewhat obvious and safe.
Mat sees this as the safe move. Smart move, but also safe and somewhat easy.
Kirk is a pro, and he has Mat's trust. He's not going to wow anybody, but he's also not going to make some of the mistakes we saw from C.J. and JL3 while either one of them was running the show.
Hinrich will work hard every day and be an excellent role model to Teague and even Rose.
He'll be able to fill in for Derrick for the time being, and then when Rose does return, Kirk will be a fine fill in when D-Rose needs a breather.
Defensively Hinrich is an upgrade over anything the Bulls have thrown out there since, well, Kirk Hinrich.
Mat just needs to find a way to flush out the memories of Kirk on bad Bulls teams, and see him as an added piece to an already good Bulls team. This will take time.
Mat likes the move. Even if it does seem somewhat obvious and safe.
Saturday, July 7, 2012
What Mat, Kobe, and Russell Westbrook Have In Common
Until Mat is proven wrong, and that can't be until at least October, he is certain that the Bulls will still be a contender to win the NBA Finals next season.
Hearing this from Mat should not come as a shock to you, as this is about the 5th time he's uttered this phrase.
However, now he has some of the leagues best have Mat's back.
Kobe Bryant and the oddly dressed Russell Westbrook have each said that they expect the Bulls to be in the mix come April and May of next season.
This is no surprise as players will say that about any team you ask them about this far away from the season starting, but Kobe had some words about Tom Thibodeau that showed he wasn's just blowing smoke up ESPN Chicago's ass.
Mat also couldn't hold back a smile when he read Westbrook's quote from the piece.
Mat just asks that you have some faith... buddy.
Hearing this from Mat should not come as a shock to you, as this is about the 5th time he's uttered this phrase.
However, now he has some of the leagues best have Mat's back.
Kobe Bryant and the oddly dressed Russell Westbrook have each said that they expect the Bulls to be in the mix come April and May of next season.
This is no surprise as players will say that about any team you ask them about this far away from the season starting, but Kobe had some words about Tom Thibodeau that showed he wasn's just blowing smoke up ESPN Chicago's ass.
"I felt like Thibs did a great job of putting guys in a position to be successful and they really held it down for as long as they could, man."Kobe is usually one to tell the truth. So Mat believes him, man.
Mat also couldn't hold back a smile when he read Westbrook's quote from the piece.
"He's doing well ... Chicago don't got to worry, buddy."During the regular season the Bulls still have the pieces to win a lot of games. And come playoff time, when Derrick is back, they'll be right there on everybody's radar just like they were before Rose went down.
Mat just asks that you have some faith... buddy.
Friday, July 6, 2012
New Name on the Block: Michael Redd
Remember a few years back when Michael Redd was the missing piece on the USA Basketball roster? Well, Mat does.
Now, Mat doesn't think Michael Redd is the missing piece to the Bulls, but he could be a nice replacement.
Redd can still score. He averaged more than a point every two minutes last season.
The guy can shoot the 3, he's an average defender that couldn't certainly be affected positively by Thibs, and a well seasoned veteran.
Pretty much everything the Bulls are looking for... if the price is right. Redd made the league minimum $800,000 (isn't that ridiculous, every basketball player makes that much), and is expected to accept a similar deal this offseason.
Following this Bulls offseason has been kind of a bore, and Michael Redd's name is not about to change that, but a healthy Bulls team in Mat's mind is good enough to win it all. Therefore, adding a piece like Redd could be just what the Bulls need come next April.
Don't believe Mat, just look at that Battier guy in Miami.
Now, Mat doesn't think Michael Redd is the missing piece to the Bulls, but he could be a nice replacement.
Redd can still score. He averaged more than a point every two minutes last season.
The guy can shoot the 3, he's an average defender that couldn't certainly be affected positively by Thibs, and a well seasoned veteran.
Pretty much everything the Bulls are looking for... if the price is right. Redd made the league minimum $800,000 (isn't that ridiculous, every basketball player makes that much), and is expected to accept a similar deal this offseason.
Following this Bulls offseason has been kind of a bore, and Michael Redd's name is not about to change that, but a healthy Bulls team in Mat's mind is good enough to win it all. Therefore, adding a piece like Redd could be just what the Bulls need come next April.
Don't believe Mat, just look at that Battier guy in Miami.
When $3 Million is Worthless
Roy Hibbert: 4 years, $58 million
Nic Batum: 4 years, $45 million
Gerald Wallace: 4 years, $40 million
Omer Asik: 3 years, $25 million
Landry Fields: 3 years, $19 million
Brandon Roy: 2 years, $10.4 million
A small sampling of contracts agreed to during the first five days of the offseason. Mat was under the impression that, with the new CBA in place, NBA owners were going to control themselves, maybe even seize an opportunity to tell free agents "I'm sorry, but salaries have to come down with all the new rules," even if it wasn't necessarily true for their team.
Expecting responsibility from NBA owners was foolish on Mat's part, obviously, and the contracts signed so far have extinguished any notion that non-superstars would have to expect less money in The New NBA. The free agency period has made it so a 4 year, $30 million deal for Jeremy Lin, he of the 25-or-so good games, seems startlingly reasonable.
What this means for the Bulls is that they're not going to be able to make waves with the $3 million taxpayer mid-level exception. The only player of note who has signed in their price range is Jason Kidd, who signed a three year deal worth $9 million that will make him a Knick through his 58th birthday.
If they're lucky, Kirk Hinrich (who Mat thought might be a contender to take a discount at the veteran's minimum) might take a discount to sign at the full mini-MLE. Maybe Ramon Sessions will be left with nowhere else to sign when the dust of free agency settles. Still, those seem like awfully big maybes.
What this should mean for the Bulls is that C.J. Watson is brought back, because they're almost certainly not going to find a better point guard for less than Watson's $3.2 million salary. Mat thinks Paxson and Foreman should take a hard look at guaranteeing Ronnie Brewer's contract, too, because bench help is going to be difficult to sign.
It also might mean management is right to avoid the luxury tax unless you know you're a contender. With just $3 million to wield in this sort of an environment, making significant moves to upgrade your team without giving up an important piece becomes nearly impossible. The Lakers were able to add Steve Nash, but that's because Nash turned down $11 million more from Toronto and LA happened to have a trade exception from the Lamar Odom deal.
There's a difference between cheapness and maintaining flexibility. If the Bulls let go of Korver, Watson and Brewer with few means to replace them, if they release those guys and add a Kirk Hinrich and call it an offseason? That is cheapness, because they're doing nothing but making the team worse for next season.
If, going forward, they try to avoid the tax for non-significant upgrades so that, when the time comes, they can add a Jason Terry instead of a signing a decaying Jason Kidd to a long-term deal? That might be the price of business in The New NBA.
That, and $40 million over 4 years for Jeff Green. (You're killing Mat, NBA owners.)
Nic Batum: 4 years, $45 million
Gerald Wallace: 4 years, $40 million
Omer Asik: 3 years, $25 million
Landry Fields: 3 years, $19 million
Brandon Roy: 2 years, $10.4 million
A small sampling of contracts agreed to during the first five days of the offseason. Mat was under the impression that, with the new CBA in place, NBA owners were going to control themselves, maybe even seize an opportunity to tell free agents "I'm sorry, but salaries have to come down with all the new rules," even if it wasn't necessarily true for their team.
Expecting responsibility from NBA owners was foolish on Mat's part, obviously, and the contracts signed so far have extinguished any notion that non-superstars would have to expect less money in The New NBA. The free agency period has made it so a 4 year, $30 million deal for Jeremy Lin, he of the 25-or-so good games, seems startlingly reasonable.
What this means for the Bulls is that they're not going to be able to make waves with the $3 million taxpayer mid-level exception. The only player of note who has signed in their price range is Jason Kidd, who signed a three year deal worth $9 million that will make him a Knick through his 58th birthday.
If they're lucky, Kirk Hinrich (who Mat thought might be a contender to take a discount at the veteran's minimum) might take a discount to sign at the full mini-MLE. Maybe Ramon Sessions will be left with nowhere else to sign when the dust of free agency settles. Still, those seem like awfully big maybes.
What this should mean for the Bulls is that C.J. Watson is brought back, because they're almost certainly not going to find a better point guard for less than Watson's $3.2 million salary. Mat thinks Paxson and Foreman should take a hard look at guaranteeing Ronnie Brewer's contract, too, because bench help is going to be difficult to sign.
It also might mean management is right to avoid the luxury tax unless you know you're a contender. With just $3 million to wield in this sort of an environment, making significant moves to upgrade your team without giving up an important piece becomes nearly impossible. The Lakers were able to add Steve Nash, but that's because Nash turned down $11 million more from Toronto and LA happened to have a trade exception from the Lamar Odom deal.
There's a difference between cheapness and maintaining flexibility. If the Bulls let go of Korver, Watson and Brewer with few means to replace them, if they release those guys and add a Kirk Hinrich and call it an offseason? That is cheapness, because they're doing nothing but making the team worse for next season.
If, going forward, they try to avoid the tax for non-significant upgrades so that, when the time comes, they can add a Jason Terry instead of a signing a decaying Jason Kidd to a long-term deal? That might be the price of business in The New NBA.
That, and $40 million over 4 years for Jeff Green. (You're killing Mat, NBA owners.)
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
Injured Olympians
This Olympic season was shaping up to be a big one for the Bulls. With Luol representing the home colors, Derrick the PG of the USA, and Joakim representing France, the team with the best record was going to be on full display in London.
Then Luol tore some ligaments in his wrist, Derrick, well, Mat thinks you know, and Jo badly twisted his ankle in Game 3.
There's been much ado about Luol going forward and participating in the games. Mat wishes he wouldn't, but completely understands the importance and cannot blame Luol.
Oddly enough, Mat is happy that Noah will be sitting out.
Mat likes the Olympics, especially basketball, but he has his other reasons, like this, this and this. But he'd much rather see Joakim have a full offseason and come back in full form on Opening Night.
This reminds Mat a lot of the World Baseball Classic. Everyone whines and moans when their players decide to participate, but then the second the tournament starts, we all want our home country to win.
It's a double edged sword of sorts. Mat would much rather Luol had the surgery the day after the Bulls were ousted, but now that he's playing, Mat would love to see the Brits have some success and Lu show the world what kind of player he is.
Of course in the end though, the Americans need to win to continue showing our dominance. But Mat wouldn't be totally against seeing something unfortunate occur to #6.
Disclaimer : Mat never wishes ill will on any players, it's merely a figure of speech. Ok, no it's not. Mat kind of wants #6 to get hurt. Nothing life threatening though, that'd be cruel. Just career threatening.
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
Perfect Fish
The Bulls have apparently now set their sites on former Laker and Thunder PG Derek Fisher.
Mat knows that free agency has a lot sexier topics than back-up point guard, but here in Chicago, it's this and the Omer saga.
So since we are stuck in our own world of free agency, our excitement levels are allowed to match the magnitude of the signing.
In other words, Mat would be amped if Derrick Fisher does indeed wear red and black next season.
Fisher could step in right away as the starter, giving the Bulls some security until Rose comes back and also allowing them to take it slow with the new 19 year old Bull, Marquis Teague.
Fisher would also be a perfect fit when Derrick is ready to come back. Both to play along side him as well as in a backup role.
Fisher would bring a high level of playoff experience along with his insane ability to hit every clutch shot he ever takes. Ok, Mat may have overblown that skill a little, but it's certainly better than Scal taking the final shot.
The price seems to be right. The player is certainly right. Mat's got his fingers crossed. Make it happen Gar.
Mat knows that free agency has a lot sexier topics than back-up point guard, but here in Chicago, it's this and the Omer saga.
So since we are stuck in our own world of free agency, our excitement levels are allowed to match the magnitude of the signing.
In other words, Mat would be amped if Derrick Fisher does indeed wear red and black next season.
Fisher could step in right away as the starter, giving the Bulls some security until Rose comes back and also allowing them to take it slow with the new 19 year old Bull, Marquis Teague.
Fisher would also be a perfect fit when Derrick is ready to come back. Both to play along side him as well as in a backup role.
Fisher would bring a high level of playoff experience along with his insane ability to hit every clutch shot he ever takes. Ok, Mat may have overblown that skill a little, but it's certainly better than Scal taking the final shot.
The price seems to be right. The player is certainly right. Mat's got his fingers crossed. Make it happen Gar.
Monday, July 2, 2012
The Problem Is, Who?
Omer's offer sheet with the Rockets is one that the Bulls will likely have to pass on (or else Mat may explode). This being said, the Bulls will be left with a void to backup Joakim Noah.
So who's out there? Well, in the eyes of Mat, not much.
There's Spencer Hawes, Nazr Mohammed, Aaron Gray, Robin Lopez, Jermaine O’Neal, Jason Collins, Tony Battie, Eddy Curry, Semih Erden, among a few others.
Any of those wet your whistle? They don't Mat's. Hawes is probably the best bet, but he's also the most expensive of the bunch.
Back up center is somewhat of an important position. The key is to defend and rebound, something Asik does incredibly well.
Most of the aforementioned can do both, but none at a high level.
Mat's a little concerned about what is going to happen on July 14th when Omer is officially a Rocket. Right now Mat's brain is short on ideas, he just hopes Gar and Pax have a plan he's not thought of yet.
So who's out there? Well, in the eyes of Mat, not much.
There's Spencer Hawes, Nazr Mohammed, Aaron Gray, Robin Lopez, Jermaine O’Neal, Jason Collins, Tony Battie, Eddy Curry, Semih Erden, among a few others.
Any of those wet your whistle? They don't Mat's. Hawes is probably the best bet, but he's also the most expensive of the bunch.
Back up center is somewhat of an important position. The key is to defend and rebound, something Asik does incredibly well.
Most of the aforementioned can do both, but none at a high level.
Mat's a little concerned about what is going to happen on July 14th when Omer is officially a Rocket. Right now Mat's brain is short on ideas, he just hopes Gar and Pax have a plan he's not thought of yet.
Omer the Trade Chip?
Believe you this, Mat's mind has not changed on this subject, but let's say the Bulls do sign the offer sheet on Omer Asik's new contract.
Omer would instantly become one of the hottest trade commodities come 2 years from now when he is in his final year on a $14 million expiring contract.
Expiring contracts are often more valuable than players come the yearly trade deadline. What an opportunity it would be for a team to take on a huge contact only to watch it come up the books months later. That's how teams position themselves to lure 2 or 3 stars to the same city.
Omer becomes even more of a trading chip because he's not going to be old and awful at basketball come the time his contract expires. Not only would a team get the huge expiring contact, but also a guy who can play.
Is this a reason to sign the offer sheet? Not in Mat's mind. But if they do, to borrow the famous words from Bill Murray, so we got that going for us... which is nice.
Omer would instantly become one of the hottest trade commodities come 2 years from now when he is in his final year on a $14 million expiring contract.
Expiring contracts are often more valuable than players come the yearly trade deadline. What an opportunity it would be for a team to take on a huge contact only to watch it come up the books months later. That's how teams position themselves to lure 2 or 3 stars to the same city.
Omer becomes even more of a trading chip because he's not going to be old and awful at basketball come the time his contract expires. Not only would a team get the huge expiring contact, but also a guy who can play.
Is this a reason to sign the offer sheet? Not in Mat's mind. But if they do, to borrow the famous words from Bill Murray, so we got that going for us... which is nice.
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Cya, Omer. Hopefully.
In Mat's head, he is already saying goodbye to Omer Asik. Mat couldn't wrap his little head around the news when he hard about the absurd offer the Rockets made to the Bulls back up center. This leaves the Bulls up until July 14th to match the offer the Rockets made or to let Asik walk.
Asik is an integral part of the defensive makeup of this team, and Mat has no problem the Bulls paying him anywhere in the 5-8 million dollar range to play that role for the Bulls. However, anything above those figures is ludicrous in Mats opinion.
For arguments sake, let's say the Rockets offered a third year at 14 million, rather than the 15 million previously mentioned. This is still a backup center we are talking about. Probably one of the best, but still a backup center that is a defensive master. However, you would be paying 14 million to a player who has no offensive skill set whatsoever. 14 million to someone who is as frustrating to watch with the ball in his hands down low as it is to watch Mat get chased unfairly by the janitors at the Madhouse on Madison.
Mat chose to look at it from a standpoint of what everyone else on the team is getting paid. In 2014/2015, the season Omer would be making around 14 million, Derrick Rose would be pulling in almost 18 million dollars. Is there a 3 million dollar difference in talent there or is the gap larger? Mat would venture to say the gap is larger. Same goes for Boozer, making almost 17 million. How about Joakim Noah? Obviously he would have to be making more than his backup, right? No. $12,200,000. That's right. The Bulls would end up paying a backup more than the person who is in front of him on the depth chart.
Mat understands the argument can be made that the roster will most likely look nothing like that during that season. However, the fact remains that as it stands, the Omer Asik deal would make no financial sense for the Bulls as a whole. Talent wise on the defensive end, Omer has it. But his offensive ineptitude is something that cannot be ignored and Mat believes it would be a costly mistake.
14 million is a lot of money to essentially guarantee someone. Especially knowing their skill set is limited, no matter how well they fit the mold of what you have in place currently. The Bulls cannot be sucked into giving players bad contracts for the sake of familiarity. Mat thoroughly believes the Bulls should let Asik walk at that price, no matter how much it would hurt to see him go.
Losing Omer Would Hurt
Reports indicate that the Rockets and possibly Blazers or Timberwolves are going to offer Omer heavily backloaded deals in order to woo him away from the Bulls.
As Mat noted before, being a second round pick, no team can offer him more than $5 million for the first two years of a new contract.
This means that the teams pursing him, in a ploy to bring something special to the table, would likely offer Omer deals that would pay him up to $8 million in the final two years of a four year deal.
Mat knows $8 million is a lot for a backup center. But he also knows what Omer is becoming, and might eventually turn into.
What Omer is right now is a dominant defense center. He's proven that he can shut down basically anyone (including #6 and that Wade guy) who brings the ball hard to the rack.
But where he struggles is on the other end. His hands are suspect, which makes for his ability to catch (this is where the hands come in) and score to be limited.
Mat wants to remind the masses, Gar, and Pax, that Omer has only been through one NBA training camp, which was before he had ever played a game in the league. His ability to learn during the offseason is far greater than it is during a shortened 66 game season which allowed room for very few practices. Without a lockout this year, Omer will be able to go through a true offseason, and his offensive game should get better.
Where Mat sees the big loss in Omer departing is that finding a replacement will not be easy. There are some older players out there, but none with the same skill set as Omer. The Bulls have somewhat of a young core. Rose 23, Deng 27, Noah 27, Gibson 27, and Teague 19. And Omer is only 25.
Keeping this young core will not only allow the Bulls to grow as a team, which they have already been doing, but it also will allow them to keep a nucleus, and fit auxiliary pieces in around them. Mat loves the idea of two good big men on the same roster for years to come. That's why he thinks losing Omer would hurt both now, but also in the future.
Big guys don't grow on trees and young ones are incredibly difficult to get your hands on. The Bulls have two of them, they shouldn't let some desperate team take one away.
As Mat noted before, being a second round pick, no team can offer him more than $5 million for the first two years of a new contract.
This means that the teams pursing him, in a ploy to bring something special to the table, would likely offer Omer deals that would pay him up to $8 million in the final two years of a four year deal.
Mat knows $8 million is a lot for a backup center. But he also knows what Omer is becoming, and might eventually turn into.
What Omer is right now is a dominant defense center. He's proven that he can shut down basically anyone (including #6 and that Wade guy) who brings the ball hard to the rack.
But where he struggles is on the other end. His hands are suspect, which makes for his ability to catch (this is where the hands come in) and score to be limited.
Mat wants to remind the masses, Gar, and Pax, that Omer has only been through one NBA training camp, which was before he had ever played a game in the league. His ability to learn during the offseason is far greater than it is during a shortened 66 game season which allowed room for very few practices. Without a lockout this year, Omer will be able to go through a true offseason, and his offensive game should get better.
Where Mat sees the big loss in Omer departing is that finding a replacement will not be easy. There are some older players out there, but none with the same skill set as Omer. The Bulls have somewhat of a young core. Rose 23, Deng 27, Noah 27, Gibson 27, and Teague 19. And Omer is only 25.
Keeping this young core will not only allow the Bulls to grow as a team, which they have already been doing, but it also will allow them to keep a nucleus, and fit auxiliary pieces in around them. Mat loves the idea of two good big men on the same roster for years to come. That's why he thinks losing Omer would hurt both now, but also in the future.
Big guys don't grow on trees and young ones are incredibly difficult to get your hands on. The Bulls have two of them, they shouldn't let some desperate team take one away.
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