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.
Showing posts with label Luol Deng. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Luol Deng. Show all posts
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
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.
Sunday, July 1, 2012
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.
Friday, June 29, 2012
Sox Success Could Open Up Doors For Bulls
With the news of Deng's likelihood to skip surgery and be ready for opening night crossing this afternoon, Mat has begun to think about the luxury tax.
With Deng and Rose out for extended periods, much to the chagrin of Mat, many believed the Bulls would somewhat reign it in this year and try to get some money off the books.
But now, with Deng expected at the beginning of the year, and Rose somewhere towards the back half, the Bulls are back in a position where they are contenders to win the NBA title.
Mat wonders how deep the Bulls pockets will be this offseason with the almost certainty that they will find themselves owing into the luxury tax with most moves.
This brought Mat to thinking, can the White Sox actually assist the Bulls? For those of you who don't know, the Sox and Bulls are owned by the same millionaire, Jerry Reinsdorf.
Reinsdorf is the kind of owner who wants to make money, but is also passionate about his teams, the fans, and most importantly rings.
After a year of being "All In" the Sox used much of the offseason to cut some payroll and were expecting, though they'd never admit it, a down year. But they are actually playing quite well, and have a shot at making something happen in a bad Central division.
Mat knows that the Sox have attendance issues that the Bulls most certainly do not. But he also knows that when the Sox have a winning team, usually around August and September, fans start to buy in, literally.
If the Sox make the postseason, they will make a boatload more money than anyone in the front office ever imagined out of this team. Therefore, the owner will have more money to play around with.
This just might mean that Jerry is more willing to dip into those extra funds and go a bit further into the luxury tax than most might have expected.
Mat knows he's probably reaching on this one by making such a direct comparison, but the fact is, if the Sox are good, the Bulls owner has more money. Which Mat clearly sees as a positive.
With Deng and Rose out for extended periods, much to the chagrin of Mat, many believed the Bulls would somewhat reign it in this year and try to get some money off the books.
But now, with Deng expected at the beginning of the year, and Rose somewhere towards the back half, the Bulls are back in a position where they are contenders to win the NBA title.
Mat wonders how deep the Bulls pockets will be this offseason with the almost certainty that they will find themselves owing into the luxury tax with most moves.
This brought Mat to thinking, can the White Sox actually assist the Bulls? For those of you who don't know, the Sox and Bulls are owned by the same millionaire, Jerry Reinsdorf.
Reinsdorf is the kind of owner who wants to make money, but is also passionate about his teams, the fans, and most importantly rings.
After a year of being "All In" the Sox used much of the offseason to cut some payroll and were expecting, though they'd never admit it, a down year. But they are actually playing quite well, and have a shot at making something happen in a bad Central division.
Mat knows that the Sox have attendance issues that the Bulls most certainly do not. But he also knows that when the Sox have a winning team, usually around August and September, fans start to buy in, literally.
If the Sox make the postseason, they will make a boatload more money than anyone in the front office ever imagined out of this team. Therefore, the owner will have more money to play around with.
This just might mean that Jerry is more willing to dip into those extra funds and go a bit further into the luxury tax than most might have expected.
Mat knows he's probably reaching on this one by making such a direct comparison, but the fact is, if the Sox are good, the Bulls owner has more money. Which Mat clearly sees as a positive.
Luol Deng to Skip Surgery, Start Opening Night?
Tom Thibodeau has reportedly told ESPN Radio's Waddle & Silvy program that Luol Deng will not have surgery to repair ligaments in his left wrist after the Olympics, and the small forward will be ready to start the season with the team.
Mat's immediate reaction is to be very, very wary. Luol Deng had easily the worst shooting season of his career last season, and it's hard not to chalk that up to the injury. Throw in the training staff's spotty history and Thibs's tendency to play guys even when they shouldn't be in, and it seems like a dicey experiment.
Upon closer look, though, Mat can see the argument for playing through. Luol knows his body -- knew his body better than team doctors when they implied he was playing up what turned out to be a fractured leg -- and if he's become acclimated to the pain, if it's gotten better to any degree, if he thinks he can make it through another season as a productive player? That's his prerogative.
Furthermore, there's no definitive proof of causation between Deng's wrist injury and his poor field goal percentage. He wasn't exactly lighting the world on fire before he got hurt (43.1% FG) and he actually had a better field goal percentage in the month following the injury (41.7%) than he ended up with on the season (41.2%). He closed out the last month of the season on an uptick (42.4% FG) and put up a solid 45.6% from the field in the playoffs.
Deng has had a similar outlier season on the other end of the spectrum, shooting 51.7% from the field in 2006-07. The two seasons are almost exactly as far removed from his career average: 2006-07 was 52 points higher, '11-12 was 53 points lower.
Obviously, Mat still has reservations about this decision. Deng didn't lose his shooting stroke; he shot 36.7% from three at a career-high volume. Part of his decreased efficiency was due to subpar midrange shooting, but it's also because he lost his ability to attack, drawing fouls at a career-low rate. That, above all else, seems directly attributable to a desire to avoid pain.
Until Deng continues to struggle, though, Mat is willing to give Lu the benefit of the doubt.
Mat also thinks this helps explain the Bulls' draft and pretty significantly affects how they will approach free agency, but he'll have more on that later.
Dissecting Marquis Teague
With the 29th pick of the 2012 NBA Draft the Chicago Bulls selected Marquis Teague point guard out of the University of Kentucky. Mat was hearing plenty of rumors of Tyshawn Taylor and various amounts of small forward prospects, but the drafting of Teague caught this mouse by surprise.
Previous to the pick, Mat was very vocal in his displeasure with the possibility of his Bulls drafting a backup point guard to bridge the gap while Rose was out. He would have much rather seen coverage for Luol Deng's absence be drafted with the 29th pick.
However, the fact that Teague was the starting point guard on essentially a very quality D-League team in college has grown on Mat. His experience running the offense for the national champions falls right in line with what GarPax usually looks for out of their draft picks, which is reputable college and big game experience.
Teague is 6'2" in height and weighs 180 pounds. For his position and height he walks around with a very solid frame. He is a psychical specimen not to be overlooked. His explosiveness while running the point at Kentucky was another of his strong suits. Time and time again defensives couldn't deny him the ability to get to the rim. Similar, in some ways, to how Rose plays the game. Mat believes this will come in handy when speaking to the issue of fluidity without Rose on the floor this season.
His work on the pick and roll at Kentucky was lauded amongst experts. Mat noticed his ability to work with the likes of Anthony Davis and others which turned them into such a success. Imagining running this type of pick and roll with Boozer, Jo, or Taj makes Mat salivate. Hopefully that part of his game can translate well to the Bulls offense.
His defense is something of a project. Coach Thibs is the perfect person to take on this project as well. Teague has the psychical tools to matchup well with NBA PGs, but the question is how much will his size hinder his performance on that end of the court.
Mat believes his consistency is a huge question mark. His jump shot has been a cause for concern all through out his college career. A PG playing Thibs' system is usually asked to handle a portion of the scoring for the offense, and Mat believes this will be a key to the Bulls success without Rose on the floor. Considering Teague will most likely see plenty of minutes without the starting PG on the floor, this will be a huge issue as to whether or not he can adapt to a much longer schedule against much better competition night in and night out. If he can stay consistent, we may see something of a prodigy being molded right in front of our eyes.
Overall, Mat believes Teague is a project. A project that will see an increased amount of NBA time so he will literally be growing right before our eyes this upcoming season. As previously stated, a better pick could have been made at that position. Mat believes a small forward in that spot would have aided the Bulls in coping with the loss of a integral portion of their minutes and defense in reference to Deng. Signing a veteran point guard in the offseason made more sense from a stand point that PG means a lot more to the Bulls offensively.
Mat congratulates Marquis Teague and wishes him well on his endeavors with the Bulls, just as he would with any new member of the team. He looks forward to seeing him running the point hiding amidst the shadows of the Madhouse. Truth be told, he misses seeing his beloved Bulls play in general.
Go Bulls.
Previous to the pick, Mat was very vocal in his displeasure with the possibility of his Bulls drafting a backup point guard to bridge the gap while Rose was out. He would have much rather seen coverage for Luol Deng's absence be drafted with the 29th pick.
However, the fact that Teague was the starting point guard on essentially a very quality D-League team in college has grown on Mat. His experience running the offense for the national champions falls right in line with what GarPax usually looks for out of their draft picks, which is reputable college and big game experience.
Teague is 6'2" in height and weighs 180 pounds. For his position and height he walks around with a very solid frame. He is a psychical specimen not to be overlooked. His explosiveness while running the point at Kentucky was another of his strong suits. Time and time again defensives couldn't deny him the ability to get to the rim. Similar, in some ways, to how Rose plays the game. Mat believes this will come in handy when speaking to the issue of fluidity without Rose on the floor this season.
His work on the pick and roll at Kentucky was lauded amongst experts. Mat noticed his ability to work with the likes of Anthony Davis and others which turned them into such a success. Imagining running this type of pick and roll with Boozer, Jo, or Taj makes Mat salivate. Hopefully that part of his game can translate well to the Bulls offense.
His defense is something of a project. Coach Thibs is the perfect person to take on this project as well. Teague has the psychical tools to matchup well with NBA PGs, but the question is how much will his size hinder his performance on that end of the court.
Mat believes his consistency is a huge question mark. His jump shot has been a cause for concern all through out his college career. A PG playing Thibs' system is usually asked to handle a portion of the scoring for the offense, and Mat believes this will be a key to the Bulls success without Rose on the floor. Considering Teague will most likely see plenty of minutes without the starting PG on the floor, this will be a huge issue as to whether or not he can adapt to a much longer schedule against much better competition night in and night out. If he can stay consistent, we may see something of a prodigy being molded right in front of our eyes.
Overall, Mat believes Teague is a project. A project that will see an increased amount of NBA time so he will literally be growing right before our eyes this upcoming season. As previously stated, a better pick could have been made at that position. Mat believes a small forward in that spot would have aided the Bulls in coping with the loss of a integral portion of their minutes and defense in reference to Deng. Signing a veteran point guard in the offseason made more sense from a stand point that PG means a lot more to the Bulls offensively.
Mat congratulates Marquis Teague and wishes him well on his endeavors with the Bulls, just as he would with any new member of the team. He looks forward to seeing him running the point hiding amidst the shadows of the Madhouse. Truth be told, he misses seeing his beloved Bulls play in general.
Go Bulls.
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
What it Takes to Move Joakim
A "headline grabbing move" is the only way to get Noah out of Chicago. So says Bill Ingram, @TheRocketGuy.
In other words, it's Dwight Howard to the Bulls, or Noah isn't going anywhere.
Mat used to love the idea of Dwight to the Bulls. Then he began to sour on Howard as Dwight's childish behaviors became more and more apparent as his time in Orlando appeared to be running out.
But now that the Bulls situation has changed a bit, Mat's back on board for the Howard/Rose combo.
As mentioned in the article by Ingram, Howard could keep the Bulls afloat until Rose gets back, and then they work together to bring home rings. Seems very simple to Mat.
But there's more to the deal than just Howard and Rose playing together. It also takes a number of other possible destinations out of the picture for Dwight. Right now Mat doesn't think the Magic can win, with or without Howard. But he does think if Dwight ends up in Dallas or Brooklyn, there is another power team the Bulls would have to contend with to win a title.
Mat knows that Deng, Noah, and maybe more is a huge price, but there's nothing more valuable in the NBA than a dominant big man, especially when you have a dominant point guard.
As Mat understands, it's a long shot. And may be getting longer as free agency grows nearer and nearer. But Mat does believe it's worth a look. A nice long look. One that might even result in the biggest blockbuster in Bulls history.
In other words, it's Dwight Howard to the Bulls, or Noah isn't going anywhere.
Mat used to love the idea of Dwight to the Bulls. Then he began to sour on Howard as Dwight's childish behaviors became more and more apparent as his time in Orlando appeared to be running out.
But now that the Bulls situation has changed a bit, Mat's back on board for the Howard/Rose combo.
As mentioned in the article by Ingram, Howard could keep the Bulls afloat until Rose gets back, and then they work together to bring home rings. Seems very simple to Mat.
But there's more to the deal than just Howard and Rose playing together. It also takes a number of other possible destinations out of the picture for Dwight. Right now Mat doesn't think the Magic can win, with or without Howard. But he does think if Dwight ends up in Dallas or Brooklyn, there is another power team the Bulls would have to contend with to win a title.
Mat knows that Deng, Noah, and maybe more is a huge price, but there's nothing more valuable in the NBA than a dominant big man, especially when you have a dominant point guard.
As Mat understands, it's a long shot. And may be getting longer as free agency grows nearer and nearer. But Mat does believe it's worth a look. A nice long look. One that might even result in the biggest blockbuster in Bulls history.
What To Do With #29?
With the NBA Draft taking place tomorrow night, much has been made about what the Bulls will do with the 29th pick. Mat previously entertained the thrones of trade ideas that came about involving various scenarios that probably won’t happen anyways.
This provoked Mat to begin to think about the possibilities of who the Bulls might actually take in that 29th spot and how they would translate to the Bulls roster immediately. After perusing various mock drafts and reading copious amounts of scouting reports, Mat feels these players would be good options to take at 29 tomorrow night:
Jeff Taylor SF Vanderbilt
Mat believes his game at Vanderbilt would translate well to the Bulls over time in many positive ways. He is an athletic small forward whose size at 6’7” translates well to the NBA game. Mat believes his most important asset he brings to the floor is his defensive ability. A noted lockdown defender that would bring a much needed bridge between the gap of missing Luol Deng. Mat has seen him use his athletic ability well while running the floor for Vandy
His 3 point shooting is nothing to scoff at either, shooting a very good 42% for Vandy last year. Where he struggles is with his ball handling. Mat has noticed his ability to create his own shot is somewhat concerning.
His consistency at the NBA level would come into question as well. For Mat, this prospect would be good to take a shot on at 29. He has shown incredible defensive and 3 point prowess. Thibs could do some work on this kid.
Will Barton SF Memphis
Mat has seen this small forwards ability to score and it has intrigued him. His instinct to get to the basket and create his own shot is something that is NBA ready right now. Mat believes it is an intangible the Bulls are looking for immediately. Helping out Rose with the scoring is never a bad thing, and Barton would certainly be able to do that.
His size at 6’6” and overall body is something of a concern. He has above average defense in college, but the question arises as to whether he would be able to guard the bigger SF’s and/or SG’s he would encounter in the NBA.
Mat believes a player of his capabilities would adapt well on the offensive end in the Bulls scheme, however the overall readiness of his NBA defense leaves something to be desired.
Quincy Miller SF Baylor
Mat noticed this kids size and was immediately impressed. 6’10” at the 3? Yes please. Quincy has a noted knack for creating his own shot. Give him the ball and his handles come into play. Above average 3 point shooter, but where Quincy comes in handy is when he is asked to shoot from mid range.
His height makes him a nuisance in the post. Noted at Baylor for his ability to post up down low and create a shot. Mat can only imagine Rose bringing the ball up and already seeing Quincy establishing a presence down low with his 7’4” wingspan.
His defense is above average as well, but his size makes him that much more of a presence guarding across a multitude of positions. Mat has noticed however his jumper leaves a little more to be desired, in addition to his lanky frame causing him to not be as strong as he should be. Quincy is also young. At just 19, Mat has to question his ability to come into a mature league and show what he is made of.
Mat obviously has a preference of the Bulls drafting a small forward to cover for Luol’s early season absence. However, regardless of what the Bulls do, everyone knows Mat cannot wait. All this talk of trades and draft picks is making this mouse a tad bit anxious.
This provoked Mat to begin to think about the possibilities of who the Bulls might actually take in that 29th spot and how they would translate to the Bulls roster immediately. After perusing various mock drafts and reading copious amounts of scouting reports, Mat feels these players would be good options to take at 29 tomorrow night:
Jeff Taylor SF Vanderbilt
Mat believes his game at Vanderbilt would translate well to the Bulls over time in many positive ways. He is an athletic small forward whose size at 6’7” translates well to the NBA game. Mat believes his most important asset he brings to the floor is his defensive ability. A noted lockdown defender that would bring a much needed bridge between the gap of missing Luol Deng. Mat has seen him use his athletic ability well while running the floor for Vandy
His 3 point shooting is nothing to scoff at either, shooting a very good 42% for Vandy last year. Where he struggles is with his ball handling. Mat has noticed his ability to create his own shot is somewhat concerning.
His consistency at the NBA level would come into question as well. For Mat, this prospect would be good to take a shot on at 29. He has shown incredible defensive and 3 point prowess. Thibs could do some work on this kid.
Will Barton SF Memphis
Mat has seen this small forwards ability to score and it has intrigued him. His instinct to get to the basket and create his own shot is something that is NBA ready right now. Mat believes it is an intangible the Bulls are looking for immediately. Helping out Rose with the scoring is never a bad thing, and Barton would certainly be able to do that.
His size at 6’6” and overall body is something of a concern. He has above average defense in college, but the question arises as to whether he would be able to guard the bigger SF’s and/or SG’s he would encounter in the NBA.
Mat believes a player of his capabilities would adapt well on the offensive end in the Bulls scheme, however the overall readiness of his NBA defense leaves something to be desired.
Quincy Miller SF Baylor
Mat noticed this kids size and was immediately impressed. 6’10” at the 3? Yes please. Quincy has a noted knack for creating his own shot. Give him the ball and his handles come into play. Above average 3 point shooter, but where Quincy comes in handy is when he is asked to shoot from mid range.
His height makes him a nuisance in the post. Noted at Baylor for his ability to post up down low and create a shot. Mat can only imagine Rose bringing the ball up and already seeing Quincy establishing a presence down low with his 7’4” wingspan.
His defense is above average as well, but his size makes him that much more of a presence guarding across a multitude of positions. Mat has noticed however his jumper leaves a little more to be desired, in addition to his lanky frame causing him to not be as strong as he should be. Quincy is also young. At just 19, Mat has to question his ability to come into a mature league and show what he is made of.
Mat obviously has a preference of the Bulls drafting a small forward to cover for Luol’s early season absence. However, regardless of what the Bulls do, everyone knows Mat cannot wait. All this talk of trades and draft picks is making this mouse a tad bit anxious.
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
The Cost of Success
While the rumors of Luol-Deng-to-Golden-State have mercifully been shut down on two fronts (an effective leak by the Bulls organization), there may still be an underlying truth to them that makes Mat uncomfortable. KC Johnson, who historically has been the most well-connected beat writer, didn't say the trade didn't work for the team from a talent perspective. As it is all too often for a team in a market as large as Chicago (and much to Jessie J's dismay), it appears to have been all about the price tag:
Mat understands the logic behind it: Derrick Rose is hurt, so next season might be a lost cause; the new CBA has harsh luxury tax penalties; Deng is overpaid. Might as well retool the team under the constraints of the new system and see if you luck into getting a more capable sidekick for Rose, right?
Except: Rose will come back* -- around March, perhaps, splitting the difference between eight and 12 months. Suddenly next season isn't such a lost cause. The harsher luxury tax penalties don't kick in until 2013-14, and the Bulls won't be in danger of the ultra-severe repeater tax until after Deng's contract expires and Boozer's enters its final year, making him significantly easier to trade.
The Bulls could easily ride this very, very talented roster for another two years, contend for those years, and adjust the roster to the new salary cap after that with few repercussions. They just have to be willing to pay the price.
Jerry Reinsdorf said he'd consider paying the tax for a contender. Unless you've got the most stringent definition of "contender" in the world, Mat thinks two consecutive years with the best record in the league probably qualifies. It's taken over a decade for the Bulls to get to this point post-dynasty; management should appreciate how rare it is to build a team of this caliber.
Two years of luxury tax payments to find out what this group of players is capable of when fully healthy should be a small price to pay for the most profitable team in the league -- particularly when the reward could be invaluable.
*Mat knocked on wood for one hour straight after typing these words. Mat's knuckles are raw and bloody, but all jinxes should be warded off.
"The entire purpose of trading Deng, which management isn't dying to do, would be to do so to a team that can absorb Deng's contract into its salary-cap space, thus eliminating the need to take back salary."That the Bulls might be willing to dump a 27-year-old All-Star forward for the #7 pick in a draft bereft of sure-things seems like a huge red flag. Mat is fine with moving Deng if the talent coming back is satisfying (like, say, in a certain trade proposal in this post). If it's just a financial maneuver, though? That should be an unacceptable return for arguably your second-best player.
Mat understands the logic behind it: Derrick Rose is hurt, so next season might be a lost cause; the new CBA has harsh luxury tax penalties; Deng is overpaid. Might as well retool the team under the constraints of the new system and see if you luck into getting a more capable sidekick for Rose, right?
Except: Rose will come back* -- around March, perhaps, splitting the difference between eight and 12 months. Suddenly next season isn't such a lost cause. The harsher luxury tax penalties don't kick in until 2013-14, and the Bulls won't be in danger of the ultra-severe repeater tax until after Deng's contract expires and Boozer's enters its final year, making him significantly easier to trade.
The Bulls could easily ride this very, very talented roster for another two years, contend for those years, and adjust the roster to the new salary cap after that with few repercussions. They just have to be willing to pay the price.
Jerry Reinsdorf said he'd consider paying the tax for a contender. Unless you've got the most stringent definition of "contender" in the world, Mat thinks two consecutive years with the best record in the league probably qualifies. It's taken over a decade for the Bulls to get to this point post-dynasty; management should appreciate how rare it is to build a team of this caliber.
Two years of luxury tax payments to find out what this group of players is capable of when fully healthy should be a small price to pay for the most profitable team in the league -- particularly when the reward could be invaluable.
*Mat knocked on wood for one hour straight after typing these words. Mat's knuckles are raw and bloody, but all jinxes should be warded off.
Monday, June 25, 2012
Lu-mors
The two teams who's names continue to surface when talking about Lu-mors (Luol Deng Rumors), are the Warriors and the Kings.
The Warriors (#7) apparently had a scout in London watching Luol, and the Kings are looking for a small forward and may feel as though Deng is a better option than whatever they can find at pick #5.
Mat was pleased when he read that the Bulls have assured Luol that he is not headed to Golden State.
Sam Smith brought up the intriguing (as he coined it) idea of moving Luol to Sacramento.
Mat likes the idea of Tyreke Evans as the replacement for Derrick during the injury. He also loves the idea of Tyreke and Derrick playing together.
Mat also has high regards for a number of players towards the top 5 of Thursday's draft. Among them, Kidd-Gilchrist, Barnes, Lamb and Rivers.
This being said, Mat's not so sure that there's a package out there that includes both Tyreke and #5.
Luol, #29, and a future pick for Tyreke and #5? Luol and Noah for Tyreke, #5, and a future pick? What about just moving Noah? Noah and #29 for Tyreke and #5?
Mat's done making up rumors.
Bulls get Tyreke and #5, Mat will likely be happy. Bulls get just #5, Mat's most likely sad, unless a high level free agent PG comes with.
The Warriors (#7) apparently had a scout in London watching Luol, and the Kings are looking for a small forward and may feel as though Deng is a better option than whatever they can find at pick #5.
Mat was pleased when he read that the Bulls have assured Luol that he is not headed to Golden State.
Sam Smith brought up the intriguing (as he coined it) idea of moving Luol to Sacramento.
Mat likes the idea of Tyreke Evans as the replacement for Derrick during the injury. He also loves the idea of Tyreke and Derrick playing together.
Mat also has high regards for a number of players towards the top 5 of Thursday's draft. Among them, Kidd-Gilchrist, Barnes, Lamb and Rivers.
This being said, Mat's not so sure that there's a package out there that includes both Tyreke and #5.
Luol, #29, and a future pick for Tyreke and #5? Luol and Noah for Tyreke, #5, and a future pick? What about just moving Noah? Noah and #29 for Tyreke and #5?
Mat's done making up rumors.
Bulls get Tyreke and #5, Mat will likely be happy. Bulls get just #5, Mat's most likely sad, unless a high level free agent PG comes with.
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Deng Won't Be Surprised If Moved
Mat reads about the Bulls all day every day during the offseason. And the latest hot button topic on the Bulls beat is rumors surrounding Luol Deng.
Moving Luol Deng is not on Mat's short list of things the Bulls need to accomplish this offseason. But Mat is certainly not opposed to the move, given the right package is sent in return.
Trading Luol comes would open up some space for the Bulls to make a splash in the Free Agent market either this year or next. But at the same time, Luol has only gotten better in his time with the Bulls and has put himself on the precipice of becoming an elite player.
But as always with trades, Mat can only evaluate a deal when he knows what both sides are receiving.
If he had his choice, Mat would most likely choose for Deng to stay. But if the right deal comes along, we are in the business of winning.
All Mat wants is rings, and whatever will help the Bulls get them, he's on board with.
Moving Luol Deng is not on Mat's short list of things the Bulls need to accomplish this offseason. But Mat is certainly not opposed to the move, given the right package is sent in return.
Trading Luol comes would open up some space for the Bulls to make a splash in the Free Agent market either this year or next. But at the same time, Luol has only gotten better in his time with the Bulls and has put himself on the precipice of becoming an elite player.
But as always with trades, Mat can only evaluate a deal when he knows what both sides are receiving.
If he had his choice, Mat would most likely choose for Deng to stay. But if the right deal comes along, we are in the business of winning.
All Mat wants is rings, and whatever will help the Bulls get them, he's on board with.
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
No Rose, No Deng, No Problem
Mat is fed up with the national and local pundits who are already
counting the Bulls out for next year. From ESPN to Comcast Sports Net
Chicago, pretty much every "expert" is claiming that the Bulls are going
to have a tough time next season without Derrick and Luol in the lineup
for an extended period.
While Mat does agree that wins will not be easy to come by, he disagrees that the Bulls are not a contender to win the NBA Finals next year.
16 teams make the playoffs, which means more than half of the league qualify. Mat cannot fathom a Tom Thibodeau lead team not being able to be among the top 8 in the Eastern Conference.
A conference including the Bobcats, Cavaliers, Wizards, Raptors, and Nets. Mat knows the Bulls are not the same team without its 2 stars, but to think they are not in the top 53% of the East boggles his little mind.
Mat doesn't believe that Derrick will be out for the entire year, and he certainly doesn't think Deng will be out past the All Star Break. So, all the Bulls need to do is tread water for the first few months.
If they can stay in the mix, maybe within 3 or 4 games of 8th place, which should be a given, for the first half of the year, Mat asks why they can't use the second half of the year, with a healthy Deng, and eventually Rose, to make their push into the postseason.
Then, if the Bulls end up making the playoffs, they will have Rose and both on fresh legs having played only a few months of basketball. Might have to take down #6 and the Heat a little earlier than planned, but there's no convincing Mat that the Bulls can't get it done.
The goal for the regular season may have changed, but the ultimate goal remains. Mat thinks the Bulls have what it takes to get in, you tell him if they are contenders with a healthy squad and a 7 or 8 seed.
While Mat does agree that wins will not be easy to come by, he disagrees that the Bulls are not a contender to win the NBA Finals next year.
16 teams make the playoffs, which means more than half of the league qualify. Mat cannot fathom a Tom Thibodeau lead team not being able to be among the top 8 in the Eastern Conference.
A conference including the Bobcats, Cavaliers, Wizards, Raptors, and Nets. Mat knows the Bulls are not the same team without its 2 stars, but to think they are not in the top 53% of the East boggles his little mind.
Mat doesn't believe that Derrick will be out for the entire year, and he certainly doesn't think Deng will be out past the All Star Break. So, all the Bulls need to do is tread water for the first few months.
If they can stay in the mix, maybe within 3 or 4 games of 8th place, which should be a given, for the first half of the year, Mat asks why they can't use the second half of the year, with a healthy Deng, and eventually Rose, to make their push into the postseason.
Then, if the Bulls end up making the playoffs, they will have Rose and both on fresh legs having played only a few months of basketball. Might have to take down #6 and the Heat a little earlier than planned, but there's no convincing Mat that the Bulls can't get it done.
The goal for the regular season may have changed, but the ultimate goal remains. Mat thinks the Bulls have what it takes to get in, you tell him if they are contenders with a healthy squad and a 7 or 8 seed.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)