CCI Continues...

May 9, 9:32 a.m. Until the powers to be in the .com world tell me to shut it down CCI -Toronto will appear twice weekly. Yes, the column will be retained on the Bulls web site and I look forward to communicating with you during the season as well. I posted my first Bulls installment as a get to know you theme yesterday. I'd love to see a Bulls-Raptors EC Finals next year. There is room for everyone in the great world of the NBA. Since I announced my resignation from the Raptors on Tuesday I have received tons and tons of e-mails and I can't begin to express my appreciation. You know how much I love Raptors' fans and the passion they bring in everything you do. I have heard from many, many people in the NBA and I appreciate their support in a most difficult move. The fact that Jose Calderon has issued a public statement through his web site regarding his desire to start comes as no surprise to any of us. He wants to run a team. I admire him for that. T.J. Ford wants to run a team. I admire him for that. Now it comes down to Bryan Colangelo. If the Raps elect to part with Ford they first must be convinced Calderon will re-sign with the Raptors. If there's a marriage I expect Ford to be traded. What's the value of Ford? That's the question. I think it's higher than most people think. Yes, the injury concern is there but he's got two years left at 8-plus a year and above average point guards are hard to find. As you are, I am watching a ton of NBA ball. The Spurs needed that game last night and they got it, but trust me, one day we'll be able to say, "I saw Chris Paul play." That's the greatest compliment a fan can pay a player. What's going on with King James? He's 8-42 in the series and the Cavs look like a CYO team. Mike D'Antoni? I don't know where to start? Is it all about money? Team? What? The Suns? What's their plan? Good move by Rod Thorn hiring Kiki Vandeweghe as the team's GM. Hmmm... something must be up. Bernie Bickerstaff leaves Charlotte for..... Got to love what Brandon Webb is doing in Arizona. Impressive. We'll learn more about the Jays this weekend in Cleveland. Taking in to account all their injuries, for the Yankees to be 18-18 you have to take it if you're a NY fan. The Wings look like the class of the NHL. Always a pleasure .You can e-mail me at swirsk054@aol.com