*NBA THREAD* Abe will be missed (2 Viewers)

[No. 16]

From Bill Simmons ESPN Chat:

Kobe Bryant (Newport Beach, Ca)

Bill, I know you better have owned up to your mishandling of my pyramid placement in TBOB...

Bill Simmons (4:51 PM)

I moved you into the top 10, Mamba. You deserved it. And not even in 6 of every 24 copies... in every copy.

Big fan of Simmons' White Mamba nickname for Big Ben.

I caught that earlier in the chat and had a good chuckle. I don't agree with a good portion of what comes out of his mouth, but Simmons sure as hell entertains me.

Yah the White Mamba made me LOL.

 

[boubucarow]

Bucks fans: Still think Salmons was a good signing?

As for my Bulls, they played a good game against the Lakers. They lost because Brown, Blake, and Barnes hit nine of fifteen threes while Korver, Deng, and Bogans hit two of thirteen.

Noah took Gasol out of the game. The Lakers could not handle Rose. Gibson and Noah won the rebounding battle especially Noah converting on the offensive glass when Rose broke down the defense. One thing I noticed was that the Lakers D was often a step ahead of the Bulls ball movement forcing bad passes or finding lesser options like Bogans who couldn't convert on wide open threes. Although I know that Boozer has had his issues with teams with length, I am beginning to believe that this team could be a serious threat to any team in the league in a seven game series.

Of course, now they have Phoenix tonight, Denver Saturday, and Sacramento Sunday.

 

[Gr00vus]

That's a nice squad the Bulls have there. If LeBron was serious about winning championships and/or not stupid he would have signed there, perfect framework for him to succeed. That said I'm thinking the Bulls would have been better off reallocating Boozer's money somewhere else assuming Taj Gibson can bring it like he did last night consistently. Having that depth will be nice for them though. Glad they're in the EC.

 

[No. 16]

That's a nice squad the Bulls have there. If LeBron was serious about winning championships and/or not stupid he would have signed there, perfect framework for him to succeed. That said I'm thinking the Bulls would have been better off reallocating Boozer's money somewhere else assuming Taj Gibson can bring it like he did last night consistently. Having that depth will be nice for them though. Glad they're in the EC.

Where would you want them to spend their cash? Gibson is playing well but he's no Boozer. Outside of LBJ and Wade, there's no one else who would fit as well as Boozer. JJ is too old and still not a fan of Gay although he has improved his rebounding. At the very least Taj Gibson is GREAT trade bait since he's on a rookie deal. They should really take a look at getting Iggy especially if they can keep Deng. I'm on my iPhone so I'm too lazy to check if that's even possible but Philly would have to consider acquiring Gibson to pair with Holiday and Evans.RoseIggyDengBoozerNoahThat would be a killer team.

 

[Gr00vus]

That's a nice squad the Bulls have there. If LeBron was serious about winning championships and/or not stupid he would have signed there, perfect framework for him to succeed. That said I'm thinking the Bulls would have been better off reallocating Boozer's money somewhere else assuming Taj Gibson can bring it like he did last night consistently. Having that depth will be nice for them though. Glad they're in the EC.

Where would you want them to spend their cash? Gibson is playing well but he's no Boozer. Outside of LBJ and Wade, there's no one else who would fit as well as Boozer. JJ is too old and still not a fan of Gay although he has improved his rebounding. At the very least Taj Gibson is GREAT trade bait since he's on a rookie deal. They should really take a look at getting Iggy especially if they can keep Deng. I'm on my iPhone so I'm too lazy to check if that's even possible but Philly would have to consider acquiring Gibson to pair with Holiday and Evans.RoseIggyDengBoozerNoahThat would be a killer team.

More/better depth probably. Maybe not even spending a ton of their cap space and going with what they had and picking up guys a year or two from now. They're already on the hook for Deng's contract, but at least he's somewhat young. Boozer's on the downside of his career, and while a good (not great) scorer and rebounder he's undersized and tends to end up being somewhat of a liability when he runs into the big boys. He's not good on defense (which makes him a strange decision given who they went with for HC). With Rose and Noah they should be figuring out how to keep Gibson around and develop him, not deal him off, and keep what could be a very good, relatively young group of guys together instead of signing older, less multidimensional guys. Put it this way, the Jazz ended up in better shape by replacing Boozer with Jefferson - the Bulls would have also. Sometimes the answer isn't just signing the "biggest name" still on the market.

 

[Wu-banger]

That's a nice squad the Bulls have there. If LeBron was serious about winning championships and/or not stupid he would have signed there, perfect framework for him to succeed. That said I'm thinking the Bulls would have been better off reallocating Boozer's money somewhere else assuming Taj Gibson can bring it like he did last night consistently. Having that depth will be nice for them though. Glad they're in the EC.

Where would you want them to spend their cash? Gibson is playing well but he's no Boozer. Outside of LBJ and Wade, there's no one else who would fit as well as Boozer. JJ is too old and still not a fan of Gay although he has improved his rebounding. At the very least Taj Gibson is GREAT trade bait since he's on a rookie deal. They should really take a look at getting Iggy especially if they can keep Deng. I'm on my iPhone so I'm too lazy to check if that's even possible but Philly would have to consider acquiring Gibson to pair with Holiday and Evans.RoseIggyDengBoozerNoahThat would be a killer team.

Would love that trade , or anything to get rid of the vastly over-rated and selfish Iggy. Dont think it would work with his huge contract though.....can you take Brand back too please..?

 

[No. 16]

That's a nice squad the Bulls have there. If LeBron was serious about winning championships and/or not stupid he would have signed there, perfect framework for him to succeed. That said I'm thinking the Bulls would have been better off reallocating Boozer's money somewhere else assuming Taj Gibson can bring it like he did last night consistently. Having that depth will be nice for them though. Glad they're in the EC.

Where would you want them to spend their cash? Gibson is playing well but he's no Boozer. Outside of LBJ and Wade, there's no one else who would fit as well as Boozer. JJ is too old and still not a fan of Gay although he has improved his rebounding. At the very least Taj Gibson is GREAT trade bait since he's on a rookie deal. They should really take a look at getting Iggy especially if they can keep Deng. I'm on my iPhone so I'm too lazy to check if that's even possible but Philly would have to consider acquiring Gibson to pair with Holiday and Evans.Rose

Iggy

Deng

Boozer

Noah

That would be a killer team.

More/better depth probably. Maybe not even spending a ton of their cap space and going with what they had and picking up guys a year or two from now. They're already on the hook for Deng's contract, but at least he's somewhat young. Boozer's on the downside of his career, and while a good (not great) scorer and rebounder he's undersized and tends to end up being somewhat of a liability when he runs into the big boys. He's not good on defense (which makes him a strange decision given who they went with for HC). With Rose and Noah they should be figuring out how to keep Gibson around and develop him, not deal him off, and keep what could be a very good, relatively young group of guys together instead of signing older, less multidimensional guys. Put it this way, the Jazz ended up in better shape by replacing Boozer with Jefferson - the Bulls would have also. Sometimes the answer isn't just signing the "biggest name" still on the market.

You couldn't be more wrong. Boozer is one of the best rebounders and low post scorers in the NBA. He grabs 18.3% of total rebounds and scorers 18+ ppg with a high TS%. Boozer does get a bit lost against taller players on offense, but he can still rebound with them. With Noah hanging around the Bulls have the luxury of putting Boozer on the inferior big man on defense. Sure he's a little old, but aside from injuries Boozer is in relatively great shape and doesn't rely on extreme athleticism like Amare, so he should age well.

As for the Jazz, Jefferson is not a better player than Boozer.... yet. He still maybe, but he isn't nearly the rebounder that Boozer is. The best thing for Utah is getting Milsap more minutes.

 

[Gr00vus]

You couldn't be more wrong. Boozer is one of the best rebounders and low post scorers in the NBA.

When I see him against quality 4's he gets worked much of the time. And I've seen him plenty. That's not a guy I want to hand out a big contract to and lean on to be my 4. He accumulates numbers, and he's better than your average 4 in points and boards, but he's not top shelf when playoff time rolls around. He just isn't. There are at least 10 4's I'd rather have than him, probably more. Were they all on the market this summer? No, but that still doesn't mean you need to hitch your wagon to this guy.

 

[boubucarow]

That's a nice squad the Bulls have there. If LeBron was serious about winning championships and/or not stupid he would have signed there, perfect framework for him to succeed. That said I'm thinking the Bulls would have been better off reallocating Boozer's money somewhere else assuming Taj Gibson can bring it like he did last night consistently. Having that depth will be nice for them though. Glad they're in the EC.

Where would you want them to spend their cash? Gibson is playing well but he's no Boozer. Outside of LBJ and Wade, there's no one else who would fit as well as Boozer. JJ is too old and still not a fan of Gay although he has improved his rebounding. At the very least Taj Gibson is GREAT trade bait since he's on a rookie deal. They should really take a look at getting Iggy especially if they can keep Deng. I'm on my iPhone so I'm too lazy to check if that's even possible but Philly would have to consider acquiring Gibson to pair with Holiday and Evans.Rose

Iggy

Deng

Boozer

Noah

That would be a killer team.

More/better depth probably. Maybe not even spending a ton of their cap space and going with what they had and picking up guys a year or two from now. They're already on the hook for Deng's contract, but at least he's somewhat young. Boozer's on the downside of his career, and while a good (not great) scorer and rebounder he's undersized and tends to end up being somewhat of a liability when he runs into the big boys. He's not good on defense (which makes him a strange decision given who they went with for HC). With Rose and Noah they should be figuring out how to keep Gibson around and develop him, not deal him off, and keep what could be a very good, relatively young group of guys together instead of signing older, less multidimensional guys. Put it this way, the Jazz ended up in better shape by replacing Boozer with Jefferson - the Bulls would have also. Sometimes the answer isn't just signing the "biggest name" still on the market.

You couldn't be more wrong. Boozer is one of the best rebounders and low post scorers in the NBA. He grabs 18.3% of total rebounds and scorers 18+ ppg with a high TS%. Boozer does get a bit lost against taller players on offense, but he can still rebound with them. With Noah hanging around the Bulls have the luxury of putting Boozer on the inferior big man on defense. Sure he's a little old, but aside from injuries Boozer is in relatively great shape and doesn't rely on extreme athleticism like Amare, so he should age well.

As for the Jazz, Jefferson is not a better player than Boozer.... yet. He still maybe, but he isn't nearly the rebounder that Boozer is. The best thing for Utah is getting Milsap more minutes.

The other thing to keep in mind is that Gibson is 25 without a lot of development time left. He has a nice game but can not be counted on for an efficient 20-10 a night like Boozer. He can be however be an elite 3rd big man. The Bulls need a 2nd scorer bad and Boozer will provide that. That allows the very inconsistent Deng to be the 3rd scorer and for Gibson to score when feels it with the 2nd unit.

 

[boubucarow]

You couldn't be more wrong. Boozer is one of the best rebounders and low post scorers in the NBA.

When I see him against quality 4's he gets worked much of the time. And I've seen him plenty. That's not a guy I want to hand out a big contract to and lean on to be my 4. He accumulates numbers, and he's better than your average 4 in points and boards, but he's not top shelf when playoff time rolls around. He just isn't. There are at least 10 4's I'd rather have than him, probably more. Were they all on the market this summer? No, but that still doesn't mean you need to hitch your wagon to this guy.

This is a concern against the Lakers or Celtics, true. But most teams do not have enough quality big men to defend Boozer while also boxing out Noah or keeping an eye on Gibson. They can hide his weaknesses much like they would have done for Bosh who is the one that made a huge mistake by not signing with the Bulls.

 

[Gr00vus]

You couldn't be more wrong. Boozer is one of the best rebounders and low post scorers in the NBA.

When I see him against quality 4's he gets worked much of the time. And I've seen him plenty. That's not a guy I want to hand out a big contract to and lean on to be my 4. He accumulates numbers, and he's better than your average 4 in points and boards, but he's not top shelf when playoff time rolls around. He just isn't. There are at least 10 4's I'd rather have than him, probably more. Were they all on the market this summer? No, but that still doesn't mean you need to hitch your wagon to this guy.

This is a concern against the Lakers or Celtics, true. But most teams do not have enough quality big men to defend Boozer while also boxing out Noah or keeping an eye on Gibson. They can hide his weaknesses much like they would have done for Bosh who is the one that made a huge mistake by not signing with the Bulls.

Bosh also should have decided to go there, perfect fit for him. And I don't want to imply Boozer sucks, he's just got 4 skills in a 3 body, is a below average defender, and that becomes a problem when his teams hit the high end of the playoffs - which is where the Bulls are headed. I'm just saying if I were the Bulls and missed out on the big 3 this summer, I'd probably have gone another direction and/or saved my cap space for later. Like, I wonder how a Rose/whoever/Anthony/Gibson/Noah lineup would look. I think that team might be favored to win a championship.

 

[saintfool]

Bosh also should have decided to go there, perfect fit for him. And I don't want to imply Boozer sucks, he's just got 4 skills in a 3 body, is a below average defender, and that becomes a problem when his teams hit the high end of the playoffs - which is where the Bulls are headed. I'm just saying if I were the Bulls and missed out on the big 3 this summer, I'd probably have gone another direction and/or saved my cap space for later. Like, I wonder how a Rose/whoever/Anthony/Gibson/Noah lineup would look. I think that team might be favored to win a championship.

i would say he's more a 5 skills in a 4 body. he's built, i guess, but i think he's lot an apparent lack of athleticism for his position.

 

[Kev4029]

That's a nice squad the Bulls have there. If LeBron was serious about winning championships and/or not stupid he would have signed there, perfect framework for him to succeed. That said I'm thinking the Bulls would have been better off reallocating Boozer's money somewhere else assuming Taj Gibson can bring it like he did last night consistently. Having that depth will be nice for them though. Glad they're in the EC.

Where would you want them to spend their cash? Gibson is playing well but he's no Boozer. Outside of LBJ and Wade, there's no one else who would fit as well as Boozer. JJ is too old and still not a fan of Gay although he has improved his rebounding. At the very least Taj Gibson is GREAT trade bait since he's on a rookie deal. They should really take a look at getting Iggy especially if they can keep Deng. I'm on my iPhone so I'm too lazy to check if that's even possible but Philly would have to conusider acquiring Gibson to pair with Holiday and Evans.RoseIggyDengBoozerNoahThat would be a killer team.

The Bulls, unfortunately, are set up terribly to make any trades. There is no realistic way for them to get Iggy because they would either have to trade Deng, Noah or Boozer or two of Brewer, Korver and Rose or trade basically the entire bench.ETA: I read this somewhere and I agree with it, JR Smith would be a great trade for the Bulls. He's in the last year of his contract, would come cheap, and he can rain 3s. Its possible it wouldn't work out but they could probably get it does with Johnson, Bogans and a 2nd rounder or something if the Nuggets go into fire sale mode.

 

[No. 16]

You couldn't be more wrong. Boozer is one of the best rebounders and low post scorers in the NBA.

When I see him against quality 4's he gets worked much of the time. And I've seen him plenty. That's not a guy I want to hand out a big contract to and lean on to be my 4. He accumulates numbers, and he's better than your average 4 in points and boards, but he's not top shelf when playoff time rolls around. He just isn't. There are at least 10 4's I'd rather have than him, probably more. Were they all on the market this summer? No, but that still doesn't mean you need to hitch your wagon to this guy.

This is a concern against the Lakers or Celtics, true. But most teams do not have enough quality big men to defend Boozer while also boxing out Noah or keeping an eye on Gibson. They can hide his weaknesses much like they would have done for Bosh who is the one that made a huge mistake by not signing with the Bulls.

Bosh also should have decided to go there, perfect fit for him. And I don't want to imply Boozer sucks, he's just got 4 skills in a 3 body, is a below average defender, and that becomes a problem when his teams hit the high end of the playoffs - which is where the Bulls are headed. I'm just saying if I were the Bulls and missed out on the big 3 this summer, I'd probably have gone another direction and/or saved my cap space for later. Like, I wonder how a Rose/whoever/Anthony/Gibson/Noah lineup would look. I think that team might be favored to win a championship.

Outside of Lebron there's not many SF that are 6'9" and, 258 pounds of muscle. Boozer maybe short for a PF, but he certainly has the girth.Not meant to be a discussion end, but thought it was interesting looking at Boozer vs Gasol in their H2H match ups.

Boozer vs Pau

Their statistics are virtually the same statistics in the 15 games they have played against each other and since 2009, they are 5-5.

Also, I actually like Rose/Boozer/Noah trio over Rose/Melo/Noah trio because Rose looks like he's becoming unstoppable on offense and I feel Boozer/Noah complement him much more on that end. Throw in two defensive/3 pt wing men and they'll be a dangerous team.

 

[Juxtatarot]

ETA: I read this somewhere and I agree with it, JR Smith would be a great trade for the Bulls. He's in the last year of his contract, would come cheap, and he can rain 3s. Its possible it wouldn't work out but they could probably get it does with Johnson, Bogans and a 2nd rounder or something if the Nuggets go into fire sale mode.

The Bulls' brass are very reluctant to have players with characters issues like Smith has. They had no interest in keeping him after they acquired him in the Tyson Chandler trade. I don't know why that would change now.

 

[simmonjm]

Knicks are riding the roller coaster, were on 5 game losing streak, now winners of 5 straight. Great game tonight, Knicks up by 1 Stephen Jackson driving for what looks like easy dunk and Stoudemire blocks it. Knicks get the ball and are able to grab a rebound on miss and win the game. Stoudemires number came off his jersey and the announcers somehow ended up with it. Great night to be a Knicks fan but I envision alot of highs and lows this season as their w/l depends heavily upon the 3 point shot.

 

[Gadfly]

I hope that it's only T-shirts with what some would consider obscene language/images that are confiscated and that this doesn't go too far with the censorship: http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/truehoop/mia...tory?id=5847505

 

[Steelfan7]

Knicks are riding the roller coaster, were on 5 game losing streak, now winners of 5 straight. Great game tonight, Knicks up by 1 Stephen Jackson driving for what looks like easy dunk and Stoudemire blocks it. Knicks get the ball and are able to grab a rebound on miss and win the game. Stoudemires number came off his jersey and the announcers somehow ended up with it. Great night to be a Knicks fan but I envision alot of highs and lows this season as their w/l depends heavily upon the 3 point shot.

Knicks now 8-8. Felton has been a better signing than Amar'e. Knicks are blocking shots like crazy this yr, but got beat on the boards again tonight. It's weird seeing the Knicks actually play defense this yr.

 

[timschochet]

And another loss for the Heat. The math isn't working for me.

 

[Premier]

You lost, tim. Pay the man his money.

 

[timschochet]

You lost, tim. Pay the man his money.

Not so fast, Pattie! I'm good for the money, but I will pay him when it becomes impossible for them to win 65 games. They could go undefeated the rest of the way...

 

[timschochet]

Seriously though, I thought the Heat would play hard tonight. They actually took a 1 point lead in the middle of the 4th. But after that it was downhill. The Magic win the way they always win at home, with the 3 point shot and with Nelson's penetration. Miami does not play good defense as of yet.

 

[JMon348]

Ill say it again, the Bulls made a huge mistake in not signing Shannon Brown. Would have been perfect beside Rose. The team is very good now, Boozer will fit in nicely. I agree with Groovus that I didnt like the Boozer signing. He's not going to be a first or second option on a championship team but with Rose and Noah elevating their overall games Boozer is the third best player on that team so it might work. Rip Hamilton would be a nice fit at 2 guard for them, and he's very available.

 

[No. 16]

Ill say it again, the Bulls made a huge mistake in not signing Shannon Brown. Would have been perfect beside Rose. The team is very good now, Boozer will fit in nicely. I agree with Groovus that I didnt like the Boozer signing. He's not going to be a first or second option on a championship team but with Rose and Noah elevating their overall games Boozer is the third best player on that team so it might work. Rip Hamilton would be a nice fit at 2 guard for them, and he's very available.

Boozer is a very good 2nd option for any team. I guess, I maybe overestimating Boozer's offense but there's very few players who have scored 17+ ppg AND have a TS% >= 57% for their careers.17+ ppg AND TS% > 57%

Of the active players the only ones that have scored at least that many points that efficiently are...

Amare

Dwight Howard

Kevin Martin

Yao Ming

Shaq

Dirk

Eric Gordon

Pau Gasol

Peja

Allen

Bosh

Durant

CP3

Granger

That's a list of only 32 players.

If you factor in passing (AST%) then the list of 17+ ppg, 57% TS, AND > 13% AST% goes down to 18 players and the active players being...

Shaq

Dirk

Eric Gordon

Pau Gasol

Ray Allen

Durant

CP3

So the only big men who offer the offensive production similar to Boozer now are Dirk and Gasol, since SHAQ is in decline. I don't see how Boozer is not a 2nd option for a championship team considering few score as efficiently as him, he can post up, pass, and hit a mid range jumper. Like Carmelo he probably shouldn't be the 2nd best PLAYER on a championship team, but they both can certainly be a championship team's best scoring options.

Again, this is all speculation since Boozer hasn't played, but the improvement in Rose certainly makes the Bulls a legit contender if he can keep up this play.

 

[timschochet]

I know what Groovus and Jmon are saying about Boozer, but I think it might be short-sided. As Laker fans we've watched year after year as Boozer was expected to handle the Laker front line in the playoffs and he simply couldn't handle it. But on Chicago he's got more help. He should be able to focus more on his game and not be pressed to be the main scoring option.

However the Bulls look to me like still a little less than the big 3 in the East (and yes, I still believe Miami is one of those 3). If I'm Miami, Boston, or Orlando, then Chicago is the team I want to see in the 2nd round, not the other 2.

 

[tommyGunZ]

I agree with Groov and jMon. Boozer doesn't suck, but you're not going to win titles with him as your 4. I'll be surprised if he's as efficient offensively playing outside of Sloan's system and playing with Rose instead of Deron. Utah was a perfect fit for Boozer's game and while Williams scores, he's still a pass first PG. Rose isn't.

 

[boubucarow]

A few things...

A healthy Bulls will own the offensive glass on almost every night. Noah, Gibson, and Boozer will have tons of tip ins off of Rose drives to the hoop.

The gap between a Deron Williams and Rose as a passer is no where near as significant as many want to believe. When the Bulls gets back all of their main scorers, his assist ratio will increase.

Joakim Noah is becoming a complete nuisance to the opposing team. He stripped Nash at least twice in key moments. His rebounding. His mobile defense. His put backs on fast breaks. Blocked shots.

If healthy as is, the Bulls chances on defeating the big boys in a series is mainly IMO on the offensive shoulders of Boozer and Deng. That scares me.

 

[Cliff Clavin]

I agree with Groov and jMon. Boozer doesn't suck, but you're not going to win titles with him as your 4. I'll be surprised if he's as efficient offensively playing outside of Sloan's system and playing with Rose instead of Deron. Utah was a perfect fit for Boozer's game and while Williams scores, he's still a pass first PG. Rose isn't.

All depends on what 5 you pair him with. With Okur at the 5, you won't win a title with Boozer at the 4. Put a legit center with him (ie. Noah, Howard, Perkins) and I think he can.

 

[Gr00vus]

I agree with Groov and jMon. Boozer doesn't suck, but you're not going to win titles with him as your 4. I'll be surprised if he's as efficient offensively playing outside of Sloan's system and playing with Rose instead of Deron. Utah was a perfect fit for Boozer's game and while Williams scores, he's still a pass first PG. Rose isn't.

You run the pick and pop with Rose/Boozer, some pick and roll with Noah, but outside of that you end up with your 3 best players being most effective inside or very near the paint. It'll be tough to space it effectively such that it doesn't limit someone's game. The Bulls would have been better off getting someone who can really stretch the D and create more space inside for Rose to do his thing while also giving him a money kick option. That's why I think Anthony would have been ideal for them. There's no way defenses could pack the paint against Rose as they try to do now if they had an Anthony as a threat.

 

[Gr00vus]

Also, some great games last night. The TWolves really let the Spurs off the hook. Growing pains for the youngsters. It'll be a tough thanksgiving for Jason Richardson after missing that free throw in the 1st OT.

On this thanksgiving day, I say GB the NBA channel gametime show.

 

[biggamer3]

Love what my Knicks are finally doing. Playing Gritty Ewingesque basketball, with tight wins. I like the close endings since it breeds a winning atmosphere when they can consistently close out opponents.

Gallo can disappear for 3 quarters but he really has a knack for 4th quarter points.

Love how right I was with my preseason assessment that the Knicks would be better then Rockets

 

[Juxtatarot]

Love what my Knicks are finally doing. Playing Gritty Ewingesque basketball, with tight wins. I like the close endings since it breeds a winning atmosphere when they can consistently close out opponents.Gallo can disappear for 3 quarters but he really has a knack for 4th quarter points.Love how right I was with my preseason assessment that the Knicks would be better then Rockets

The winning percentage of Knicks' opponents is currently the lowest in the league. It's early. And there is plenty of time for their defensive inadequacies to become glowingly apparent. I suppose the Knicks have a shot at being a .500 team but it isn't likely.

 

[D'OHtis]

Very certain the Bulls had JR Smith for about 2 seconds a couple years ago. (Want say they were the team that actually gave him away to the Nuggets). He's not an answer here. Don't really know what he really brings to the table (besides a potential headache). I liked the Korver signing as an outside shooter (something they desperately needed)

Not going to judge the Boozer move until we see what happens. Taj Gibson has been a savior of sorts to the Bulls. Don't mind the Boozer addition, but wasn't a biggest fan of the duration of the contract. Taj will still see heavy minutes behind Noah/Boozer (good problem to have).

With the way Taj and Deng have played thus far, I don't think you can count them out of the Anthony sweepstakes during the year.

 

[Juxtatarot]

Very certain the Bulls had JR Smith for about 2 seconds a couple years ago. (Want say they were the team that actually gave him away to the Nuggets).

Yes, acquired as part of the Tyson Chandler-P.J. Brown trade and traded later that summer for a couple of 2nd round picks.

 

[Steelfan7]

Love what my Knicks are finally doing. Playing Gritty Ewingesque basketball, with tight wins. I like the close endings since it breeds a winning atmosphere when they can consistently close out opponents.Gallo can disappear for 3 quarters but he really has a knack for 4th quarter points.Love how right I was with my preseason assessment that the Knicks would be better then Rockets

The winning percentage of Knicks' opponents is currently the lowest in the league. It's early. And there is plenty of time for their defensive inadequacies to become glowingly apparent. I suppose the Knicks have a shot at being a .500 team but it isn't likely.

Knicks already have a win over your beloved Bulls. Knicks are a .500 team and if the team jells more as the season progresses and if Randolph and can provide some shot blocking and rebounding than Knicks may become a 46-50 win team. Knicks are playing some good defense this yr. Yes other teams bigs are having career games against them, but they are finally competing on the defensive end unlike the past yrs watching David Lee, Harrington and gang give no effort on that side of the court.

 

[Cliff Clavin]

Love what my Knicks are finally doing. Playing Gritty Ewingesque basketball, with tight wins. I like the close endings since it breeds a winning atmosphere when they can consistently close out opponents.Gallo can disappear for 3 quarters but he really has a knack for 4th quarter points.Love how right I was with my preseason assessment that the Knicks would be better then Rockets

The winning percentage of Knicks' opponents is currently the lowest in the league. It's early. And there is plenty of time for their defensive inadequacies to become glowingly apparent. I suppose the Knicks have a shot at being a .500 team but it isn't likely.

Look at their schedule from Dec 12 to Jan 12.Sun, Dec 12 vs DenverWed, Dec 15 vs BostonFri, Dec 17 vs MiamiSat, Dec 18 @ ClevelandWed, Dec 22 vs Oklahoma CitySat, Dec 25 vs ChicagoTue, Dec 28 @ MiamiThu, Dec 30 @ OrlandoSun, Jan 2 vs IndianaTue, Jan 4 vs San AntonioFri, Jan 7 @ PhoenixSun, Jan 9 @ Los AngelesTue, Jan 11 @ PortlandWed, Jan 12 @ UtahThey maybe get wins vs Indiana and Cleveland (but it is a back to back) and probably steal one somewhere else. What is the next easiest game in there? Playing Miami? @ Phoenix?

 

[Steelfan7]

Love what my Knicks are finally doing. Playing Gritty Ewingesque basketball, with tight wins. I like the close endings since it breeds a winning atmosphere when they can consistently close out opponents.Gallo can disappear for 3 quarters but he really has a knack for 4th quarter points.Love how right I was with my preseason assessment that the Knicks would be better then Rockets

The winning percentage of Knicks' opponents is currently the lowest in the league. It's early. And there is plenty of time for their defensive inadequacies to become glowingly apparent. I suppose the Knicks have a shot at being a .500 team but it isn't likely.

Look at their schedule from Dec 12 to Jan 12.Sun, Dec 12 vs DenverWed, Dec 15 vs BostonFri, Dec 17 vs MiamiSat, Dec 18 @ ClevelandWed, Dec 22 vs Oklahoma CitySat, Dec 25 vs ChicagoTue, Dec 28 @ MiamiThu, Dec 30 @ OrlandoSun, Jan 2 vs IndianaTue, Jan 4 vs San AntonioFri, Jan 7 @ PhoenixSun, Jan 9 @ Los AngelesTue, Jan 11 @ PortlandWed, Jan 12 @ UtahThey maybe get wins vs Indiana and Cleveland (but it is a back to back) and probably steal one somewhere else. What is the next easiest game in there? Playing Miami? @ Phoenix?

They've already beaten Chicago and gave the game away to Portland and played Boston tough. In today's NBA there is no gimme games. What's so tough about Miami? Felton and Amar'e probably go off for 50 a piece against that flawed team. Knicks could go 6-8 during that stretch. These aren't the Knicks of previous yrs. Yes they are not an elite team nor a title contender, but they are a playoff caliber team with many new parts that are just learning how to play together.

 

[Cliff Clavin]

Love what my Knicks are finally doing. Playing Gritty Ewingesque basketball, with tight wins. I like the close endings since it breeds a winning atmosphere when they can consistently close out opponents.Gallo can disappear for 3 quarters but he really has a knack for 4th quarter points.Love how right I was with my preseason assessment that the Knicks would be better then Rockets

The winning percentage of Knicks' opponents is currently the lowest in the league. It's early. And there is plenty of time for their defensive inadequacies to become glowingly apparent. I suppose the Knicks have a shot at being a .500 team but it isn't likely.

Look at their schedule from Dec 12 to Jan 12.Sun, Dec 12 vs DenverWed, Dec 15 vs BostonFri, Dec 17 vs MiamiSat, Dec 18 @ ClevelandWed, Dec 22 vs Oklahoma CitySat, Dec 25 vs ChicagoTue, Dec 28 @ MiamiThu, Dec 30 @ OrlandoSun, Jan 2 vs IndianaTue, Jan 4 vs San AntonioFri, Jan 7 @ PhoenixSun, Jan 9 @ Los AngelesTue, Jan 11 @ PortlandWed, Jan 12 @ UtahThey maybe get wins vs Indiana and Cleveland (but it is a back to back) and probably steal one somewhere else. What is the next easiest game in there? Playing Miami? @ Phoenix?

They've already beaten Chicago and gave the game away to Portland and played Boston tough. In today's NBA there is no gimme games. What's so tough about Miami? Felton and Amar'e probably go off for 50 a piece against that flawed team. Knicks could go 6-8 during that stretch. These aren't the Knicks of previous yrs. Yes they are not an elite team nor a title contender, but they are a playoff caliber team with many new parts that are just learning how to play together.

Playoff caliber? Sure, in the east. They are a playoff caliber team just as much as the Pacers, Raptors, Bucks, Cavs, Pistons, Bobcats, Sixers, Wizards and Nets are. Yeah, they'll probably get a playoff spot and if they're really lucky, they might even push their first round series to 5 games.

 

[Steelfan7]

Love what my Knicks are finally doing. Playing Gritty Ewingesque basketball, with tight wins. I like the close endings since it breeds a winning atmosphere when they can consistently close out opponents.

Gallo can disappear for 3 quarters but he really has a knack for 4th quarter points.

Love how right I was with my preseason assessment that the Knicks would be better then Rockets

The winning percentage of Knicks' opponents is currently the lowest in the league. It's early. And there is plenty of time for their defensive inadequacies to become glowingly apparent. I suppose the Knicks have a shot at being a .500 team but it isn't likely.

Look at their schedule from Dec 12 to Jan 12.

Sun, Dec 12 vs Denver

Wed, Dec 15 vs Boston

Fri, Dec 17 vs Miami

Sat, Dec 18 @ Cleveland

Wed, Dec 22 vs Oklahoma City

Sat, Dec 25 vs Chicago

Tue, Dec 28 @ Miami

Thu, Dec 30 @ Orlando

Sun, Jan 2 vs Indiana

Tue, Jan 4 vs San Antonio

Fri, Jan 7 @ Phoenix

Sun, Jan 9 @ Los Angeles

Tue, Jan 11 @ Portland

Wed, Jan 12 @ Utah

They maybe get wins vs Indiana and Cleveland (but it is a back to back) and probably steal one somewhere else. What is the next easiest game in there? Playing Miami? @ Phoenix?

They've already beaten Chicago and gave the game away to Portland and played Boston tough. In today's NBA there is no gimme games. What's so tough about Miami? Felton and Amar'e probably go off for 50 a piece against that flawed team. Knicks could go 6-8 during that stretch. These aren't the Knicks of previous yrs. Yes they are not an elite team nor a title contender, but they are a playoff caliber team with many new parts that are just learning how to play together.

Playoff caliber? Sure, in the east. They are a playoff caliber team just as much as the Pacers, Raptors, Bucks, Cavs, Pistons, Bobcats, Sixers, Wizards and Nets are. Yeah, they'll probably get a playoff spot and if they're really lucky, they might even push their first round series to 5 games.

As a Knicks fan I'll take that this yr. Bring on Melo for next yr.

 

[D'OHtis]

CJ Watson with a great performance in place of Rose (30+ pts). Bulls lose due to a terrible terrible terrible terrible decision to put a cold John Lucas in the game in the closing moments, who proceeded to miss 2 crucial FT's to cost the Bulls the game (Melo his GW at buzzer). Have fun back sitting at home John.

 

[Mr. PadresLakers]

Just Lebron being Lebron

 

[Juxtatarot]

Just Lebron being Lebron

Maybe LeBron mistook him for a ballboy.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JSCoLWJZnL8

 

[Mr. Retukes]

Kevin Love with a 21 point/22 rebound night. Against the Warriors of course.

Also, if you could somehow combine Dorell Wright (30 points, 2 rebounds) with Andris Biedrins (2 points, 12 rebounds), you'd have one heck of a basketball player.

 

[No. 16]

Kevin Love with a 21 point/22 rebound night. Against the Warriors of course.Also, if you could somehow combine Dorell Wright (30 points, 2 rebounds) with Andris Biedrins (2 points, 12 rebounds), you'd have one heck of a basketball player.

You think Miami could use someone like Dorell Wright?

 

[JMon348]

Just Lebron being Lebron

I would pay money for the Kobe,Lebron thread to come back.

 

[EasyMorningRebel]

Just Lebron being Lebron

That kid should have spit in thebron's face. What a dirtbag. At least he can claim he's more arrogant than Tobe.

 

[boubucarow]

Bulls finished with a winning record on the circus road trip for the first time since the dynasty. Yet, in the next 6 games they host Orlando, OKC, LAL and travel to Boston. Boozer is practicing and clear to play this week with his first game back unknown currently. The are in 3rd place in the East at 9-6 having played the toughest schedule so far according to opponent's winning percentage. Also, the Bulls have played 9 of their 15 games on the road.

 

[Moe.]

Just Lebron being Lebron

Did it get deleted? What happened to SaveFerrisB?

 

[the moops]

Just Lebron being Lebron

I'll give you the ball boy thing, but man you guys are reaching with the other two.

 

[Juxtatarot]

Just Lebron being Lebron

Do you think the bumps were accidental? I've always thought LeBron had exceptional court vision. It's odd that he would lose this during timeouts.