childukich

Any thoughts, surprised or takeaways from Summer League?

Happy to be at a basketball game again. Not so thrilled by the continued excess caution of the NBA that keeps everyone so separated. Though I understand it's their business and they have to err on the side of lockdowns or be relentlessly second guessed. But now that we are looking for germs and viruses all the time we're going to find them. So if we have to live with this, can I ever speak to Billy Donovan? Oh, you meant the Bulls. I probably was most impressed with Marko Simonovic. Not that he was the best player there for the Bulls. Obviously, that was Patrick Williams for his three games. And not that Marko looks like an NBA starter, at least not yet for the Bulls. He's going to have difficulty on defense (yes, like about 90 percent of the NBA players) and doesn't play in the air much. But I was particularly impressed with his desire. There were several times he made mistakes or turnovers and immediately put his head down and attacked the basket. He looks like a serious competitor with decent skills to shoot and handle the ball and really runs the court like Noah. I'd feel comfortable putting him into the game as an end of the rotation guy or injury/load management substitute. The Bulls had a smart plan to basically use the first few games of Summer League as a basic training camp for Williams to force him to handle the ball, make plays and shoot. He tried, showing flaws with ball handling and shooting off the dribble. But he tried. He also looked like a veteran compared to most of the Summer campers, though younger. You could see it wasn't easy for Williams to play that way because it's not natural. He's one of those you can see would probably rather be a good teammate than a big star.

That's no problem for now with LaVine, Vucevic and DeRozan. Which will be the issue for Williams again. All those guys like to shoot. Can Williams be a little selfish and get his to occupy the defense? Or will he return to being deferential? Ayo Dosunmu got a chance to get the ball once Williams left after three games and Devon Dotson suffered a sprained ankle. Dosunmu probably would be best served playing in the G-league this season both to get playing time (too many guards ahead him) and needing a lot of work on his shot. He plays more now like version of Patrick Beverley, physical, but not quite Beverley level, defense and irritation. Dotson has a really impressive feel for point guard and plays with a high IQ seeing plays. He's a natural, but with a questionable shot. Though it looks better than Ayo's, who did improve at Illinois. I thought Ethan Thompson had some moments with shooting and might be worth a G-league look. Maybe Troy Baxter for some dunking entertainment.

After watching the Summer League games it is apparent that Lauri Markkanen is a valuable piece to the 2021 roster. There is no one on the current 15 person roster better equipped to play power forward and or back up center. Thus he is not expendable. If he stays healthy playing with the new assembled cast he will receive added opportunity because the floor will be spread and or open depending on the offensive sets on the floor. Also consider this, Markkanen's defensive posture will not be so easily exposed because Lonzo Ball and Alex Caruso are very good help defenders. The other reason for keeping him is there is no better alternative productivity wise available at this juncture in the free agent season.

My guess is the Bulls may feel the same way. I do. I don't see any great reason to run away from Markkanen. OK, he's not going to be what you projected— or hoped—a few years ago. I've heard talk of draft picks, but the new management with my agreement appears not to see the draft as a priority. And that won't mean as much as Markkanen can this season even if he's been quoted saying he'd rather start over elsewhere. He's a good guy and a good teammate and never would be a problem. So maybe you lose him for nothing. It's OK; you can use the money to get someone else. Markkanan's qualifying offer of $9 million is about the average NBA salary these days (my apologies to everyone who played before 2000 for mentioning that). That's a cheap addition for, as you note, a seven footer who can backup inside positions and shoot 40 percent on threes. Those guys tend to make about double that, the various Bogdanovics and Bertans. You can't trade a free agent on a one-year deal, but things change in the NBA. Maybe he has a great season. Maybe he can't live without stuffed pizza. That's a heck of a guy to be able to bring off the bench as a ninth man. And as an unrestricted free agent he'd certainly be motivated to have a good season. And he might even have a very good one. After all, with all those scorers now you figure Markkanen would be the guy they drop off to help defensively elsewhere.

Who do you see as being the next pick for either PF, C, or a combination of both? Sterling Manley, Simisola Shittu, Paul Millsap, DeMarcus Cousins?

Millsap is the interesting name and perhaps having received that big free agent contract a few years back when Karnisovas was in Denver he wants to reunite. Or give him a thank you in Chicago. Of course, the Lakers want anyone close to 40, so they'll make a pitch. He probably can get some money returning to Denver, which probably could use the help. If the Bulls could get him for a veteran's minimum, he'd be great to have as still a clutch player and a tough competitor.

What's up with Lauri Markannen and the lack of news? Are we stuck waiting on the consequences of the investigation or is the team just in a stalemate with him? I read some interesting articles from in-the-know basketball writers who said defenses caught up to his game and he simply can't beat anyone off dribble. Which is easy to see.

Hey, I'm in the know! And I know defenses have not so much caught up with him as some ill-timed injuries and the setbacks from the Boylen Benching. Lauri can be a little bit sensitive and accepting, and instead of giving it the You're Not Benching me, Jerk! he basically goes along with some stuff for the good of team harmony. Sometimes a player can be too good a teammate. Lauri needed to be a bit more demanding at times instead of accepting his role. You know when the coach is yelling 'don't shoot, don't shoot,' and then you make the shot and get the ‘good shot' thanks. Sports requires some initiative and then you blend that in. Lauri too often seemed defeated by the circumstances. He tried to play through injuries and always came back sooner than he was supposed to. He never quit. He was never a player to beat you off the dribble as much equipped for this era's play with his size and perimeter shooting. He still has that and you bring him off the bench with some defenders like Tony Bradley and Alex Caruso and it seems to me he can be a valuable role player. Or get a lot of space with those starters. And for now, it's all about this season. I like that new management is elastic and willing to adapt more than lock into long term plans. Sports is too fluid not to be flexible.

Two teams talked about in the Lauri trade front: Dallas and Minnesota. Dallas has that $10M trade exception, which I'm sure they'd want to use, but doubt Lauri wants to sign for. Regardless, Kleber ($9M) and Finney-Smith ($4M), ideally both, would make so much sense and fill out an really nice ten man rotation. As per Minnesota, knowing they just depleted their assets with the Beverly trade, I'm still really interested in Jarred Vanderbilt. Young, high-octane PF (position of need) who can run, crash the glass and dime. Perfectly ideal for our backup squad and might slide nicely into our $5M trade exception for Theis. In that scenario, that would just be the Bulls signing him and the Wolves refusing to match, as he's a RFA. If this were involved in a trade for Lauri though, are there any restrictions to a RFA for RFA trade?

Minnesota had some interest when they had Rubio, whom they believed the Bulls might be interested in before the Ball signing. Rubio went to Cleveland, so I assume he'll be redirected again. I don't see how Minnesota can do a deal with what they have now. And there's no way the 76ers are taking draft picks. The Timberwolves for now still seem focused on trying to land Ben Simmons. Don't see that, either. The Dallas rumor has been the most prominent regarding Markkanen. You are correct there's no way Markkanen is agreeing to their trade exception after rejecting more money from the Bulls last season and making almost that this season as a free agent. And it doesn't make sense for Dallas to give up two rotation players and defense for Markkanen, who plays similarly to Porzingis. I'm still guessing Markkanen remains a Bull for another season. You can't trade a free agent on a one-year deal.

I don't know why I thought you weren't a fan of DeRozan, so I could be wrong again, but here goes …I think you are not a big fan of Ken Faried, but he is tough, rebounds, and available. Kurt Thomas for this Bulls team?

You may have read some of my responses to fans noting DeRozan's increased assist totals and he could be the point guard. No, I counseled (gently, of course), he was a wing. Not the guy to sign for point guard. Now he will be that small forward for the Bulls and my No. 1 offseason pickup. Scorer/alternate ballhandler, which is ideal. Faried is no Kurt Thomas. Thomas was an enforcer for that great 2010-11 Bulls team that had some of the most memorable games with LeBron and Miami. Faried after two years out of the NBA played on the most fun-to-watch Summer League team, Portland with Michael Beasley, Emmanuel Mudiay and Antonio Blakeney, the latter former Bull leading them in scoring. Faried led them in rebounding; he's a hustle, run the court guy. Which is basically like Simonovic. Faried's a good veteran who lost his place in the NBA when forwards had to shoot. I'd probably stick with Simonovic.

Was looking at the released upcoming schedule. No national TV games for the Bulls on Xmas day?! People would rather watch Atlanta, NY and Boston? That doesn't sound right. Sometimes it feels like the NBA hates our team. Maybe I'm being too dramatic...and biased.

There's still Eastern/LeBron bias in in the NBA-TV/ESPN world. But the Bulls haven't been in the playoffs for almost five years, so it's understandable. I believe Vegas, which is generally ahead of TNT and ESPN, has the Bulls on par with the Celtics and Hawks for now and ahead of the Knicks. But the Knicks are a Christmas tradition because the Christmas games basically began with Knicks games in the 1940s. I had just started smoking, which you could do in the arenas then.

The Bulls have traded away many future draft picks in order to try to win right now. As you and the readers pointed out, this approach is very different from what Bulls management has done in the past. But I didn't see anyone mention the reason that most management groups or GMs don't take this route: it is very risky in terms of job security. I am not saying Paxson and Forman necessarily thought that way, but in general, as long as you have a young player with a lot of potential, you can make the case that you just need a little more time to build the right team around him and for him to mature and develop and then you'll win big! Just look at the Bears with the trade for Justin Fields. Management and the coach were supposed to be on the hot seat there but when you draft a much-hyped quarterback and then commit to sitting him for a year, you buy yourself some time. When you trade draft picks for veterans, it either works or it doesn't, right away. All of that is to ask, if these trades don't lead to immediate success, do you think Karnisovas could be in trouble? Whether that's true or not, I have to imagine (without injuries) everyone is hoping for at least the second round this year or else it would be seen as a failed season, no? Or do you think just making the playoffs for the first time in five years would be enough.

I should add first that while I answered quite a few questions last week questioning the moves, there isn't much to say to questions that were more endorsements. The majority of responses I've gotten from fans have been encouraging and supportive of what the team has done this summer. Though your cynical approach is not particularly rare. I've heard it as a plan in many organizations. It reminds me of the scene from the Mel Brooks movie Blazing Saddles (yes, I have not been to the movies since 1994; too much talking in the audience). The Brooks character is the governor (Gov) of the territory and with reports of violence he tells his cabinet they need to do something, "Gentlemen, we've gotta protect our phony baloney jobs." Sure, that's also a plan. After all, all the good players come from the draft. OK, along with the bad ones. The Cubs and White Sox have had success doing it that way lately. It's not a flim flam. But I have also heard it planned out that way to extend a contract. So good for the new guys for not sentencing us to another draft era. Had the Bulls, as I have often noted, got Jordan/Rose fortunate with Zion, Luka or Ja, Karnisovas still probably would be visiting Jamal Murray in rehab. To his credit, he recognized we've suffered enough and is trying to win. It doesn't mean they have to. The East is much better with perhaps 10 teams that deserve to be in the playoffs and three seemingly considerably superior to the Bulls. Though there seemed several superior to the Suns in the West this past season. There are injuries and things happen. The Bulls' moves were to make the playoffs and advance. Sometimes it doesn't work immediately. They believe it will, If it doesn't, it's also not a one-year era. The Bulls have changed management teams twice since current ownership group in 1985.

In the hypothetical, the Bulls second unit looks like they could be a defensive juggernaut. Would you ever consider starting the second unit against a high flying team then bringing the scoring guns out when the opponent goes to the bench. Similar but different to what some MLB teams do starting closers now and again.

Well, that would be innovative. And no one ever believed you could do that in baseball. Until somebody did that; and then more tried. I believe Don Nelson would have tried something like that. The Bulls starting group is somewhat defensively challenged with LaVine (who was better on the Olympic team), Vucevic and DeRozan, and two are at wing positions where the scorers are. So you're saying, perhaps Ball, Caruso, Troy Brown, Williams and Bradley? And Dosunmu to sub? Probably not enough scoring there in a league that gives the benefit to the offense and often doesn't much allow players to defend. It was obvious watching the Olympics with the USA players getting bumped and basically stopping the first few games expecting a foul call. None came and they eventually adjusted. The NBA said this season they will begin to clean that up where offensive players jump into defenders and get the foul call. It's about time. I don't believe Zach, DeMar and Nikola would begin to cry if benched, but Donovan is more a traditionalist. I wouldn't expect him to try something like that. They say the NBA is a copycat league, so until someone wins trying that or Nelson returns for a cameo coaching experience now that pot is legal in most states, I don't expect many innovations of that sort. Though I like the thinking.

Moving the $9.7m contract of Al Farouq Aminu is the most under-appreciated transaction league-wide in the free agency period. Now there is not a "dead" contract on the Bulls roster. It is constructed nicely with talent on the inside, outside, offense, defense, young, veteran. What is missing? Bill Cartwright?

Will check if he still can give them eight good minutes or elbows a night.

Did Toni ever dislike or hate or resent MJ or Pippen for the way they beat him up in the Olympics in 92?

What a journey for Toni: from the guy Jordan called the "kid" in the 90s to now a hall of famer.

Well, Jordan is appearing on stage for Toni at the Hall of Fame (along with Jerry Reinsdorf) Sept 11, and Jordan rarely does public appearances like that. So, of course not. The 1992 Olympics competition with Kukoc was obviously puerile on the part of Jordan and Pippen, though I recall Jordan sort of going along to support Pippen, who was upset about his contract and felt the Bulls should be paying him more and not pursuing another player overseas. It's been much retold over the years, though now with expanded salary caps and celebration for executives who pursue talent overseas it would not have been an issue. The two did make it clear their pressuring of Kukoc was aimed at trying to embarrass GM Jerry Krause, which he wasn't. Kukoc's signing was a Krause coup. The best thing about it and what says a lot about Toni was Kukoc honestly never knew what they were doing. He'd played against box and ones and pressure before because he was so good (you know, a Hall of Famer), so he thought they were just playing the right way. Toni never took it personally, and Pippen especially embraced him as a teammate. I'm looking forward to being at Toni's enshrinement in Springfield and will be writing about it.

I think folks' reservations about DeRozan and defense might be a little overdone. He's a little older and he was never going to compare well to Leonard. But when he played for TOR they relied on him and Lowry to make things go. I also would doubt that Popovich would just let him ride because he's not that kind. DeRozan isn't a make or break talent but he's solid and I think he shows up to play. These days not every player does. And you're right... he is a playmaker just not to date an especially spectacular one. He'll take advantage of mismatches generated by defenses skewed to LaVine and Vucevic. Let's not underestimate that. If folks expect offense to flow thru DeRozan it ain't happenin'. If they expect a professional job done I think such folks will end Bulls games happier. I can see a consistent offense in this group while not quite up to the standard of the Rose/Noah group.

DeRozan is that sort of underrated guy because he's quiet (even in Toronto it was Lowry getting the attention), his play isn't highlight stuff, and then he has 24 points and you're not sure he was even in the game. He's a pro and knows how to play the game, also valuable with showing up. Though I believe the offense will be better than with that team. Even Zach isn't as spectacular as Rose was then, but more efficient (Derrick also didn't get to the line more because he was so quick to avoid contact like Zach does). It will be safer to sit behind the basket with Noah not shooting. Thibs isn't one for praising himself, but I remember after that season we were talking and he said, I can't believe we won 62 games and I started Keith Bogans at shooting guard 82 games. With today's rules and these players, I'd concentrate on offense. They're going to score.

Now Monta Ellis wants to pursue a comeback, too.

That's one of the great what if stories because at the time in Golden State, Ellis was probably their most popular player. Steph Curry's career was in question because of ankle problems and resulting surgery. The year of the Ellis trade to the Bucks for a center, Curry played 26 games and averaged 14.7 points and the Warriors weren't sure he'd ever be right. Ellis was averaging 22 for the Warriors, and the judgment was they couldn't play together. Warriors fans were so angry they booed owner Joe Lacob at the Chris Mullin jersey retirement ceremony and Rick Barry took the stage to castigate them. No one was sure about Curry's health including the Bucks. Eventually, the Warriors reluctantly (despite what they might say now) decided to retain Curry instead of Ellis. Good luck Monta, who did average about 18 points in a 13-year career and last played in 2017.

Ayo dropped in the draft because he is mostly a mid-range type of player. Doesn't shoot many three pointers but is still effective. I can't help but think that DeRozan is the perfect mentor for Ayo! Thad was a great mentor for paw, so I'm hoping DD might do the same for Ayo!

One thing I liked about Ayo at Summer League was how anxious he was to learn and study and implement that, and you could see how he got better at Illinois. He got better each game in Summer League, so I believe he can do so once he's playing against NBA competition regularly. He seems like someone, though, who needs to play through his education.

I read a net blurb dated 8-9 that the Bulls renounced their free agent rights to Valentine and Felicio. What "rights"? I thought as of Monday, 8-2 they were unrestricted free agents. This ties into the trade of Temple and Theis, both unrestricted free agents. There is something technical here and an explanation would be helpful.

Teams have the so called Bird "rights" to even unrestricted free agents, meaning they can go over the cap to pay them, which might benefit a free agent. Teams generally don't do that when players are unrestricted. There are way too many exceptions. Felicio, yes, still is playing basketball. In Germany. See, and everyone thought it was just the Bulls. Valentine remains unsigned, but someone is going to get a bargain on a player who can do some things.

In an ever improving East, especially at the top, do you see the Bulls being a top 4 seed? I've seen some odds come out, with the Bulls being pegged around 39-40 wins! Seems awful low to me and I'm not even trying to crown the Bulls for anything yet. Bulls have to be good for 45ish wins right?

I've been notoriously wrong on many of these predictions in recent years, but now I'm serious. I really do believe the Bulls are good enough to finish fourth. I have to offer a disclaimer about injuries, adjustments of new personnel, Covid and new strains to come. And that this is Year 1. I'd say 45 to 50 wins. They should believe they are a 50-win team (now that there are 82 games again) with three starters being recent All-Stars and a deep bench. It really does look like a very good team, the best the Bulls will have on the floor since 2011-12. The only teams I see I'm sure are better are the Nets and Bucks. I believe the 76ers are fragile with Embiid and the Simmons stuff. And otherwise the Bulls matchup roster wise with the Hawks, Heat and Celtics. Though the Knicks, Pacers and Hornets could be better than expected. The Bulls are good enough to be four/five and in the 45 to 50 win category. If they miss the playoffs, I grew up in Brooklyn where we had pennants on our walls that read, Wait 'til next year.

Ask Sam will resume during training camp in October.

ask-sam-mailbag-questions-about-derozan-lauri-summer-league-and-more

Ask Sam Mailbag: Questions about DeRozan, Lauri, Summer League, and more

The Chicago Bulls 13-man roster for MGM Resorts NBA Summer League 2021 will feature the two players from Chicago's 2020 Draft class: Patrick Williams (No. 4) and Marko Simonović (No. 44), as well as the Bulls' pick from this year's Draft, Ayo Dosunmu (No. 38). Bulls Assistant Coach Damian Cotter will be the head coach of Chicago's Summer League team.

The Bulls' first four of five games are set, tipping off with the New Orleans Pelicans on Aug. 9 in a back-to-back with the San Antonio Spurs on Aug. 10. The team will then face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Aug. 12 and Memphis Grizzlies on Aug. 15 before the NBA determines when their fifth game will be played. After every team plays four games, the two teams with the best records from the first four games will meet in the Championship Game on Aug. 17. The tiebreak criteria to determine the participants in the Championship Game are available here. The 28 teams that do not play in the Championship Game will play a fifth game on Aug. 16 or 17.

The 16th annual MGM Resorts NBA Summer League will feature all 30 NBA teams playing five games apiece during the 10-day, 75-game event. All 75 games of the 10-day competition will air live on television on ESPN networks or NBA TV. Every game will also be available to stream on the ESPN App.

CHICAGO BULLS MGM RESORTS NBA SUMMER LEAGUE 2021 SCHEDULE

CHICAGO BULLS MGM RESORTS NBA SUMMER LEAGUE 2021 ROSTER

SUMMER LEAGUE ASSISTANT COACHES: Henry Domercant, Paul Miller, Chris Kent, Billy Donovan III, Ty Abbott, Max Rothschild, Amadou Mbodji

PRONUNCIATION GUIDE: Ayo Dosunmu (i-o doe-SOO-moo); Devon Dotson (duh-VON); Marko Simonović (sim-oh-na-VICH)

bulls-announce-mgm-resorts-nba-summer-league-2021-roster

Bulls announce MGM Resorts NBA Summer League 2021 roster

The NCAA tournament begins for USA Basketball 11:40 p.m. Monday CT against Spain.

Because it's win or go home as men's Olympic basketball starts the quarterfinal "knockout" round with Zach LaVine and the USA team confident they've adjusted and developed after a stumbling start.

"Do what we do well, bring intensity on defense, play our roles, (be) ourselves in our roles. We are the best players in the world," LaVine said early Monday morning on a Zoom conference call. "I don't think anyone will be able to beat us. We focus on ourselves and then go out and compete in the game. We came here to accomplish a goal. Not just us but everybody we are trying to represent, these three letters across our chests. We'll take it game by game. Obviously, we didn't come here for anything less than that gold medal."

It's the second time in the last month the USA team will play Spain with former Bulls center Pau Gasol and his brother Marc. The U.S. closed its exhibition game series in Las Vegas last month with an 83-76 win over Spain that still didn't ease concerns about the USA play. That enabled the team to leave Las Vegas 2-2 before opening the Olympic Group play with a loss to France. The USA team then defeated Iran and Saturday the Czech Republic to advance to the quarterfinals.

Because of the second-place group finish behind France, the U.S. drew the veteran Spain team.

The U.S. team and Spain are ranked Nos. 1 and 2 in the world rankings coming into the Olympic tournament. The U.S. and Spain played for Olympic gold in 2008 and 2012 and in the semifinals in 2016. The U.S. is 16-2 against Spain in Olympic or World Cup competition, but the games have been close. The Americans won 82-76 in the 2016 Olympic semifinals, 107-100 in the 2012 gold medal game and 118-107 in 2008. Spain won the most recent international basketball competition, the 2019 World Cup. The U.S. finished seventh in that tournament.

"We came away with the win (in Las Vegas)," LaVine noted. ‘We're going to try to do the same thing. They're a tough team; they've been together for a long time. But we know what we do well and if we do that well, I don't think anyone is going to be close to beating us. I think if we focus on ourselves and do the right things we'll have the same result."

Spain's Ricky Rubio scored 23 points against the USA in the July exhibition and is fourth in scoring in this Olympics behind Luka Doncic, Rui Hachimura and Patty Mills. The top USA scorer is Jason Tatum at 16.7 per game, tied for 10th.

LaVine coming off the bench is fifth on the USA team in scoring at 11.3 per game, but he is the team's most efficient player. LaVine is leading the team in assists at 5.3 per game with fewer than one turnover per game. LaVine also has been the best shooting perimeter player at 53.8 percent on threes and 61.1 percent overall. Only Draymond Green with limited attempts has shot better.

While LaVine said his concentration remains with the USA team, he also acknowledged he'll monitor the NBA free agency, which begins 5 p.m. CT Monday. The Bulls have many possibilities, one of which is using salary cap room to extend LaVine's contract. The Bulls also are rumored in various signings and trades.

"I just want my respect," LaVine said. "I think that's the main thing. I outplayed my contract. I've been very loyal to Chicago. I like Chicago. I just want my respect. If it's now, later, it's something that we've got to work out internally and we'll go from there. We'll have some conversations going forward. I think free agency's going to play a big part with other players and constructing the roster. Me, AK (Arturas Karnisovas, basketball operations chief), Marc (Eversley, general manater) will talk and we'll get to the bottom of it.

"I should have a good idea what's going on," LaVine said about the team's free agency period. "I take that very serious, keep up to date with what's going on back home. But obviously still get my rest because we've got a game."

lavine-and-team-usa-taking-on-spain-in-olympic-knockout-round

LaVine and Team USA taking on Spain in Olympic knockout round

Late in what became a USA Basketball 119-84 victory over the Czech Republic Saturday, Bulls guard Zach LaVine was battling Patrick Auda on a switch into the paint. LaVine fronted and then pushed around to the 6-9 Auda's side as the one time Seton Hall player and veteran European forward called for the ball. LaVine's denied the opening and the ball was passed to the other side of the court.

Auda was determined not to be denied in this sweaty dance. He maneuvered along the baseline and came out the other end, his clever teammates bouncing a pass into him. But LaVine was proving even more resolute. He pushed his body into Auda's, not allowing him the space the bigger Czech players used to take an early double digit lead on the U.S. team. LaVine finally knocked the ball away, Auda grasping at air and stumbling as the ball scooted out of bounds toward USA coach Gregg Popovich. As the ball was being retrieved, Popovich grabbed LaVine and, according to the announcers present in Tokyo, was saying, "That's what we're talking about."

Just like the final score than enabled the USA team after a disappointing loss to open Olympic Group play to advance to the single elimination knockout round quarterfinals starting Tuesday.

"Our defense did a really good job of picking up and getting to the ball and then being able to rebound," said Jrue Holiday, who helped hold Bulls guard and Czech star Tomas Satoransky to 12 points. "First quarter they were throwing it into the paint, throwing it into the bigs and doing whatever they wanted to. I think for us that's just attention to detail, trying to front that post, trying to make it hard for them."

LaVine with 13 points and five assists without a turnover was among those USA players performing that role after the inefficient start.

Zach LaVine scored 13 points off the bench in the win vs. Czech Republic

Jayson Tatum led the USA team with 27 points to break his shooting slump and Kevin Durant in becoming the all-time USA Men's Basketball scoring leader led the USA from the early deficit with 23 points on eight of 11 shooting with team highs of eight rebounds and six assists. Holiday added 11 points for the USA team that made 20 of 42 three pointers after missing eight of their first 12.

It's a USA team built for shooting and speed, which opponents have tried to take advantage of with inside power. The Czech Republic with a pair of seven footers did early in a game in which the loser likely would be eliminated from the basketball tournament. They took a 9-2 lead and 19-9 going inside against the same starting lineup of Durant, Damian Lillard, Bam Adebayo, Devin Booker and Holiday. That sent the U.S. team into an early timeout with former Loyola scoring star Blake Schilb leading the Czech team. He led the Czech Republic with 17 points on five of six threes.

The U.S. began to recover as Durant found LaVine for an open three and then the Bulls uncanny shooter made the most magical shot of the game, an off balance, line drive three against pressure with the shot clock expiring. That got the USA team back within 21-15 and trailing 25-18 after the first quarter.

While the game was vital for both teams facing elimination with one loss each in group play, there also was the personal contest of teammates LaVine and Satoransky. Holiday and LaVine mostly defended the Czech team leader with a LaVine/Satoransky Bulls scrimmage breaking out early in the second quarter when Satoransky beat LaVine for a score on a step through move in the halfcourt. LaVine immediately went back at Satoransky with a crossover drive in transition and blow by to get the USA within 31-29.

Though Sunday could be a bigger day for Satoransky's Bulls future with the deadline for the Bulls to fully guarantee his contract for next season.

Durant surpassed the all-time USA scoring total shortly thereafter and the USA team began to assert control with a 47-43 halftime lead.

The USA team's pressure defense on the ball began to create problems for the Czech team after halftime. LaVine contributed to that as soon as he reentered the game in the third quarter with a steal leading to a three pointer and 71-58 lead. That was part of a 16-2 close to the quarter for an 82-60 USA lead after three. That was extended in the fourth quarter on stretching-their-legs transition plays like when LaVine grabbed a rebound and streaked Mask-like full court for a layup score.

LaVine finished making five of seven shots with three of five threes and the team's third best efficiency and plus/minus rating. And USA Basketball gets to play into August.

team-usa-beats-czech-republic-as-lavine-and-satoransky-duel

Team USA beats Czech Republic as LaVine and Satoransky duel

USA Basketball disarmed Iran early and ran away to a 120-66 victory in Olympic group play.

The victory early Wednesday morning evened the USA record at 1-1 following the inartistic loss to France. The USA team now plays a must game early Saturday against Tomas Satoransky and the Czech Republic to seal their deal and advance to the "knockout round" quarterfinals of the Olympic tournament.

The USA, coming off missing its last 11 shots in the late game upset loss to France, came out blazing behind the shooting of Damian Lillard, who made six first-half three pointers. Lillard led the USA team with 21 points, all on threes, followed by Devin Booker with 16 and Jason Tatum with 14.

Booker and Jrue Holiday started the game to replace Draymond Green and the Bulls Zach LaVine, the latter who had a terrific all around game.

Playing mostly point guard again and joining Holiday in a harassing defense, LaVine scored 13 points, led the USA team with eight assists and zero turnovers and led the USA team with five of five free throws as the USA game was more balanced and active. LaVine also had four rebounds to trail USA leader Kevin Durant with five.

"We had some circumstances that not everybody's dealing with, but nobody cares," said LaVine about several late arrivals for the roster. "So we're jelling really well, getting to know each other and starting to play together on the court."

Zach LaVine elevates for a dunk as Team USA dominates Iran in Olympic pool play.

The USA team coming off a poor shooting game against France shot 55 percent overall and 48 percent on 19 of 39 threes. But it also was the example of players like LaVine that altered the game's balance of power.

LaVine was picking up defensively in the backcourt as USA players pressured Iran, which was led by former Memphis Grizzlies 7-2 center Hamed Haddadi with 14 points and seven rebounds. Though Haddadi had three quick scores to start the game, the USA with its improved pace and aggressive defense was competent on the boards. Iran only had a 41-39 edge in rebounding. But the USA led by LaVine's eight had 34 assists on 42 field goals to finally demonstrate the USA's kind of historic dominance that many have demanded.

The USA broke open the game after leading 12-9 midday through the first quarter. With Lillard's shooting, the U.S. team went ahead 23-12 with 3:29 left in the first quarter when LaVine first entered. He started against France, but coach Gregg Popovich went with the two new starters who'd arrived late—Booker and Holiday—from the Bucks/Suns Finals.

The USA team dominated in that next segment with a 28-11 run during LaVine's time on the court into just before halftime. The U.S. team scored 11 straight points to end the first quarter. The Olympic games have 10-minute quarter and slightly shorter length basketball courts.

LaVine in an encouraging sign for his eventual return to the Bulls was picking up defensively in the backcourt, forcing the Iran guards to spin and turn to get upcourt with inspired two-way play. The USA team plays a switching system on defense. LaVine was adept in fronting the post on mismatches and forced the ball away from bigger players several times. That second quarter run with LaVine included his back to back three pointers as LaVine was efficient with three of five shooting for his 13 points and two of four threes.

In the second half, LaVine made a steal that led to a Durant fast break dunk and cleverly penetrated and drew several defenders before finding an open JaVale McGee for a three-point play. LaVine's three-point play enabled the USA to hit the rare 100-mark in Olympic game play.

team-usa-dominates-iran-zach-lavine-scores-13-in-victory

Team USA dominates Iran, Zach LaVine scores 13 in victory

LaVine set to make Olympic debut with Team USA against tough opposition in France as the Tokyo games get underway.

It means clothes do not make the man, the rough French equivalent of our phrase to not judge a book by its cover. Don't be fooled by the sound of "French basketball." USA Basketball should know that after its quarterfinals defeat two years ago in the basketball World Cup. Early Sunday morning U.S. time, Zach LaVine and USA Basketball begins its Olympic gold medal quest with what may be one of its most difficult games, against France.

"We know how good they are," LaVine said early Saturday morning on a Zoom conference from Tokyo. "We also know how good we are, too. We went over the film and understand what they do. But I think we're more focused on what we do. Because if we do what we do good, I don't think there's any team out here that's going to come close to us. As long as we go out there and execute, be Team USA, I think we'll be alright."

LaVine, for his part, has tested all right following another virus health and safety protocols scare that forced him to remain in the U.S. after the team left Monday for Japan. It turned out, LaVine said, to be more contact tracing caution even as LaVine already contracted the Covid-19 virus actually during the time when he was getting the vaccine after the NBA players first became eligible.

"I was a little shocked," LaVine admitted. "Obviously didn't think I could get it. But they have to be careful with everybody coming over here. It made sense. I just pretty much had to do my time and jump through a couple hoops to get here. I had to quarantine for a couple days, get a numerous amount of negative tests. I didn't want to be at harm. So we just had to make sure everything was OK before I got here. Flew to LA. Then flew to Tokyo on a regular flight. But there was really nobody there. I think just because of the lockdown they're not letting a lot of people into Tokyo. There might've been six people on the entire flight. So felt like a private flight."

LaVine since participated in the opening ceremonies "It was really cool, really powerful," LaVine said. "Just being around all the different athletes from all the different countries and all the different sports. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity. It's a giant event with a lot of history and I just tried to soak it all in. It was a lot of fun. Long day (after the delayed plane flight from the U.S.) though, I'll tell you that.

"We went over (to the Olympic village) before the ceremonies," LaVine said, the U.S players staying in a hotel. "We took some pictures with the other athletes, got to see what they were doing and just walked around the site. It was really cool. We talked. We mingled with all the other athletes, gave them respect and took pictures. It was really cool to experience that. It was a little surreal walking through the opening ceremonies, just seeing how many people were there and the history in it. It's just like, ‘Wow, I'm really here.' So I guess that could be a pinch-me moment.

"We're all here doing the same thing, representing our country in different sports," said LaVine. "It's eye opening just to see the sports you have from all the different countries, the respect you give each other and then knowing you're fighting for the same thing, your country and your pride as well."

The USA team is going to have a struggle. All the long international winning streaks—currently 25 straight Olympic game wins—have been ending less because of the NBA talent playing for the U.S. than the NBA talent around the world.

Consider that the best player in the recently completed Finals was from Greece. The top two in MVP voting this season and four of the top six are not from the U.S. The top two and five of the top seven in all-defense voting this season were not U.S. born players. That Defensive Player of the Year winner, and for the third time, was France's Rudy Gobert, who two years ago with 21 points and 16 rebounds ended USA's 58-game winning streak in non-exhibition international games at that World Cup.

And it's not just Gobert facing a particularly undersized USA team.

France's team features five current NBA players also with Nic Batum, Evan Fournier, Frank Ntilikina and former Bull Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot and three players who have played in the NBA, including another seven footer, Vincent Poirier, who played briefly for the 76ers and Celtics.

Olympic basketball for these games starts with three groups. The U.S. is in a group with France, the Czech Republic with its only NBA player Tomas Satoransky of the Bulls and Iran. The top two teams advance to the quarter finals after a round robin series of three games against the other teams. The top two third place teams also advance. So the USA team should move onto the quarterfinals beginning Aug. 2. The USA plays Iran Wednesday and the Czech Republic next Saturday.

The quarterfinals Aug. 2 and Aug. 3 is the so called knockout phase with a loss meaning elimination. Four teams will come out of that for an Aug. 5 semifinals. The gold medal game is Aug 6. There will be a bronze medal game Aug. 7.

The USA team is rated No. 1 coming into the tournament followed by Spain, Australia and Argentina. But France should be a difficult opponent for the USA team with its size and veteran NBA players who, unlike these USA players, have played together for many years in international competitions.

In addition, the USA team Saturday was expected to add the three players from the Finals, Devin Booker, Jrue Holiday and Khris Middleton. It was uncertain how much they would play. The U.S. team was outrebounded by about seven per game in the four exhibition games in Las Vegas last week in which they went 2-2. That included against the aging Gasol brothers and not the reigning Defensive Player of the Year.

"I think (my role) is still the same," said LaVine. "It's just whatever I've got to get done. We're not all going to play our regular starter minutes. I might come off the bench some games. I might start some games. I'm here to bring energy. Obviously, when I need to score and put the ball in the hoop, I can do that. But try to bring energy and change the pace of the game, pick up guys, be a menace out there. "I feel fine," LaVine added. "I had to sit out a couple days with some extra travel and things like that. It's nothing we're not used to. Obviously, it's a much longer flight than we're all used to. I think we're all still adjusting to the time change and the travel and things like that. But for basketball, once we get on the court, I think I'm alright and ready to go. Teamwise, we haven't changed a lot. We might've put in an extra play, but I can catch on pretty fast."

As the French say, vouloir, c'est pouvoir.

As we say, where there's a will there's a way.

zach-lavine-team-usa-to-begin-olympic-journey-against-france

Zach LaVine & Team USA to begin Olympic journey against France

Certainly you have read the speculation that NO will not match a high offer for Lonzo Ball. If he is that talented it's difficult to understand how NO can let him walk for nothing. Certainly there will be signing competition but this seems like a wonderful gift for the Bulls. What are your views? Is there a better point guard that should be available through trade? What is there not to like?

New Orleans is a difficult NBA market. Everyone in the NBA makes money because of the national TV contract. But the smaller ones don't have the local TV and attendance rates and local economy. Plus, the Pelicans have a lot of young guys, which is one problem when you build that way. You can't pay them all. They paid Ingram, which may have been a mistake given an uncertain fit with Zion, and now they certainly have to pay Zion (and Stan Van Gundy for several more years). They're stuck with Eric Bledsoe for two more years and they drafted a point guard they like, Kira Lewis, who is obviously less expensive. So few around the league are surprised they would let go Lonzo despite playing well last season.

Many are uncertain they could even take back the money in a sign and trade. He's been rumored to New York with family big market designs, though the Knicks might have other targets to start. There are a lot of rumors of a Collin Sexton deal for several of the young guys Thibs doesn't play like Knox and Toppin and maybe a draft pick. Chicago is a big enough market with a yawning need, so it makes sense for Lonzo. For the Bulls? I'd probably make the investment, though he's not exactly the ideal point guard, especially for a more modestly swift center like Nikola Vucevic. Ball is more for pace and speed, which the Bulls backed off some after the trade to more half court play. Mike Conley fits that model, but he's older and more fragile. Kyle Lowry seems interested elsewhere. Ball is just 23 and a much improved shooter. It would be a home run/slam dunk/touchdown/goal summer for the Bulls to land him.

I love it. The biggest stars in the game talkin about Zach... Now they'll want to play with him. On another note, I read about Van Fleet, and Brogdon being available, I find that hard to believe but do you think that would be doable, let alone a good fit?

I know there's a narrative about recruiting and being recruited, which is more fantasy than reality. It's often a nice media talking point which overlooks some obvious points. You know, that they all have cell phones and can text and communicate with one another even when they are not on the same Olympic team. And there are always so many others factors, like location, salary cap or trade availability and most of those guys like being 1A and not 1B. What likely will help the Bulls most is Zach will return a better and smarter player having the experience. Brogdon's name has been speculated regarding Ben Simmons. You know, an All-Star. Not for guys coming off the bench. He's got a few years left on his deal as does VanVleet. I have not heard VanVleet's name mentioned and would be surprised given they'll likely lose Lowry. I don't see Toronto getting rid of everyone to start over again, and VanVleet is popular there. He's not necessarily a Bulls answer (plus if Toronto were moving on it means they'd want draft picks and the Bulls can't trade any firsts until 2025 unless they acquire some) because he's more of a shooter and at barely six foot hardly the defender you'd want. He's made himself a career when no one expected it. I assume it finishes in Toronto.

When Marko Simonovic comes to the Bulls, how could he help Bulls given Lauri is possibly leaving and could we get Dejountay Murray in free agency?

Murray is not a free agent. His name has been speculated in trade because of the uncertainty about what the Spurs are doing with DeRozan likely leaving and without an apparent playoff roster. Rudy Gay also is a free agent. And, of course, the most damning evidence, that Zach LaVine "liked" a tweet of his. And Murray is from the same area of Washington state. What more does anyone need? I liked Murray (not tweet style) in the draft a few years back and was lobbying for him, though like with VanVleet unless they are going back to ground zero, I don't see why they wouldn't keep him. And the Bulls no longer have those imminent first round picks to deal.

There have been reports this week Simonovic was signing with the Bulls, which would suggest, as you mention, Markkanen moving on. I haven't seen Simonovic play, but at 6-11 and a 38 percent career shooter in two leagues he sounds like an economical replacement for Markkanen to play stretch four and backup center. He's not Jokic. He reminds me seeing him on highlight tapes more of a Mirotic type of big. I doubt he'll be as productive as Markkanen, at least to start, but for the Bulls now the priorities are other positions, mostly point guard and small forward. So that kind of signing presumably would give the Bulls more flexibility to build up their roster where the need is greatest.

I know all the focus on the Bulls offseason is centered around point guard, but I'm much more concerned with the options they have at forward. Whether it's a SF or PF next to Pat, the options seem pretty limited. Pat at the 4 leaves the team seriously lacking rim protection, and not many good options for SF. A sign and trade of Lauri for Kelly Oubre Jr. could make sense, and is one of the few sign and trade options that do make sense for Lauri.

The issue with going the sign and trade route—unless it's for a point guard—is it virtually takes the team out of the point guard free agent market without basically releasing Thad Young and Satoransky. I've never been much of an Oubre fan because he's such an inconsistent, streaky shooter and almost oblivious as a playmaker. He's an excellent defender with some size and toughness, but seems to me too much of a luxury for a team like the Bulls with more immediate needs. Yes, small forward is one of them, but someone who also is a playmaker. Fans have asked about DeRozan, and if the Bulls cannot upgrade enough at point guard, I wouldn't settle just because that's someone's business card. DeRozan and LaVine could be an alternating two/three combination with ball handling like the Bulls had when John Paxson was the point guard. I still think despite my opinions and observations the Bulls intend to play Williams at small forward and pick up another power forward and add Simonovic. Hey, whatever happened to small forward Otto Porter Jr.? He's a free agent.

Ben Simmons and Tobias Harris for Zach Lavine and Lauri Markkanen? I would resign Theis and move Coby over to the 2. I think Billy can make Ben a better offensive player. Philly wants shooting, but will miss Ben's great defense.

And we're losing all that Zach benefit from the Olympics already? I don't see how the 76ers would look at that as that big a positive—yes, they'd love to have someone like LaVine, I assume, but they see Harris as an All-Star level player, and I strongly doubt they are gutting the core of their team and two of their top three players with a fragile and injury-prone Embiid. Can't we just keep Zach one more season now that he's an All-Star and an Olympian?

This sounds like a great offer. Supposedly the Kings offered the 76ers Marvin Bagley, Buddy Hield, and a 1st for Ben Simmons. Kings can do DeAaron Fox, Tyrese Haliburton at the 2, Ben at the 3. Or deal Fox or Haliburton.

With a lottery pick this season the 76ers can flip for something significant, that does sound like it could be something if there is anything to it. The rumors are the Kings won't give up Fox, which I agree with. I wouldn't, either. Hield would answer some of their shooting issues as a career 41 percent three-point shooter. And Bagley as maybe a bit overrated No. 2 still is a good risk with an upside. The Kings are stuck and obviously have to try something and Haliburton has shown he can play multiple positions. OK, I approve.

I just read that Chicago native Kendrick Nunn and Lonzo Ball were two of the league's most improved three point shooters. Should the Bulls consider signing Kendrick Nunn to play point guard, or is he more of a backup. I have been a fan of Nunn since I saw him and Simeon HS play against my alma mater Whitney Young HS when I was visiting Chicago. His path to the NBA is similar to fellow Public League alum Patrick Beverley but Nunn is a better scorer and playmaker. What do you think?

Nunn's fun and hardly done, I agree. And he can run and stun. So, yes, I would like him at least for the potential rhymes I can make poems out of. But he's more Coby White than Chris Paul. He's more of a scoring guard first, and the Bulls have that. A few of them. He's turned his career around, but a return to Chicago probably is not the best idea.

Now Kawhi with an ACL does he opt out and LA pays him max knowing he will be out all of 21-22? Like what Nets did with KD? If Dolan didn't do it for KD he won't do it for Kawhi. Don't see anyone doing it for him except Clips.

And then I saw a report that suggested Leonard wouldn't mind being in Chicago. Hey, wasn't Toronto cold, also, and he left for Southern California? Of course, he only played every other game there, so he did have a lot of vacation time. Sad for Leonard with the ACL, which means bye bye to next season. It's one thing to wait a year for Durant; I'm not sure I'd be as certain with Leonard given he bailed out on two franchises, basically complained about the training staff everywhere he's been, doesn't like to play every game or most of them. And that was before the ACL surgery and now at age 30. And don't the Bulls have the next Kawhi? His fate is going to be another one of the interesting stories of another interesting NBA offseason, often as interesting as the inseason. He's got a $36 million salary for next season, and silly me I'd actually take that. But I guess if someone wants to extend you for $200 million or so... I can't see anyone taking Leonard up on that, but as they say in the NBA—and people doubting my ability to find a wife—it only takes one. I'm with you as I can't see Ballmer being outbid for Leonard, especially a Leonard not playing for at least a year. But it only takes one.

It's been rumored that Spurs guards Dejounte Murray and Derrick White are both "gettable" in a trade. It's been reported that the Spurs are interested in Markkanen. Would a trade like this realistically work?:

Spurs get: S/T Markkanen and Satoransky. Perhaps the Bulls and Spurs agree upon a future pick swap, where the Spurs get the better pick.

Bulls get: Dejounte Murray and Derrick White.

The Bulls solve their contract issue with Markkanen while solving their PG problem, plus they add depth at guard with Derrick White.

The Spurs get to reinvent or better utilize Markkanen while also getting a quality player in Sato. The pick swap is added value because Markkanen had another down year.

As I noted I've heard these rumors about Murray that I don't understand, but you never fully know what's going on with a team and their plans. The Spurs are on that fence. Popovich could leave after the Olympics. RC Buford, their Theo, has been rumored to perhaps move on. It's a very tight lipped organization, so you never know. Rebuild? Retool? Make another run for 10th? There has been Markkanen speculation regarding the Spurs and Mavericks. Not only isn't this Lauri's first rodeo, maybe he hasn't actually seen one. If the Bulls could turn a sign and trade into a point guard, that would save a lot of uncertainty. Though if the Spurs are moving out those guys it doesn't quite make sense to add Satoransky. I'm not a huge fan of White at his $70 million starting this season. A little too deliberate a game, and the Bulls already have a White as a backup guard. Though maybe it would cost that to get Murray as a salary dump. The Spurs have a huge amount of potential cap room without free agents DeRozan, Gay and Patty Mills. They'll be one of the more intriguing teams to watch.

With all the talk surrounding the Bulls 2nd round draft pick for next year coming on board, it seems that Markennen is done in Chicago. Would the Bulls seek a sign &amp; trade for him and why would a team (such as the Spurs) agree to a sign and trade when all they have to do is simply sign him to an offer sheet and tell the Bulls. "If you want him, match." Why do sign &amp; trades happen?

There is that, but if you really want the guy and a team matches your offer, you cannot get him for at least a year. And in the Spurs case maybe you can off load a salary. From the Bulls standpoint, it would have to be a player they really want. Teams often match as a misguided ego thing. The rationale is they're not letting anyone get their player. Sets a bad precedent. Something like that happened with Otto Porter and Washington when the Nets made an offer. Washington subsequently regretted it. I favor letting the guy go if you don't want him. And then use the money on someone you want. The catch is a salary cap loophole with a sign and trade that you can go over the cap resigning your own guy, which gives teams latitude in some cases. So you can add a player even if it's not the ideal player for the guy you don't want. That's probably not ideal for the Bulls this season as it could exhaust their salary cap room if they want to try to get below. Perhaps they do a sign and trade and then use taxpayer exceptions, which are larger, and can retain Young and Satoransky. There are so many ways the Bulls can go. Which still also includes keeping Markkanen.

So Zach on the point? If Pops is doing it, shouldn't we? Actually, it's just a good sign of Zach's abilities, and outside of KD, he looked like the best player on the court against Argentina. I think AK embraces position-less basketball, but realizes that Zach struggled with turnovers when under pressure, and no-one else was helpful. So we better be getting someone with handles. Fun to see all the rumors flying around. Ball or Schroder seem to be locks, or apparently we can trade for Dejounte Murray now. I'd been wondering who we would sign/trade Lauri to the Spurs for! Haha, rumors are fun! Regardless of who we get... imagine how many more corner 3s Zach can shoot with a good point guard on the floor with him. It's looking like the Bulls will be unstoppable next season. Zach love must be at an all-time high right now!

Zach! And he's had Covid already. You hit on the issue, which is the pressure. Zach and Coby looked OK when the opposition wasn't pressuring, which teams don't much in the regular season, and when they do just in spurts. But while Zach is doing some primary ballhandling for USA Basketball, they also have relief valve players available across court in an emergency. And Zach moves the ball pretty quick once crossing half court. Unstoppable?

How does team management come the value players in contract negotiations and trades? I read Cleveland should trade draft rights to #3 and Sexton for Michael Porter Jr. in Denver which seems like a huge robbery on Denvers part if taking that deal. More focused on my favorite team. As a person who thought matching Zach was not a good deal, I've been proven wrong. I still don't believe he is a max player to lead us to a championship. In today's game he seems like a weak 2nd guy or a strong 3rd guy. He's still our number one as that's how the league is today. I say offer $30 million not more. I think if Chicago can make an upgrade at point we see how the team is at trade deadline. If not in 5th or higher play off seed with or without a PG upgrade trade Lavine and Vucevic. Go full rebuild as these two really aren't number one and number two on a championship team more like 2 and 4. Entertainment and professional sports players get paid way too much especially compared to how little revenue they generate. I like sports as an escape. CEO of Walgreens the top revenue earnings company based in Illinois more revenue than the NBA 15 times over makes less than Zach today and he is earning a 14 million dollar raise. Making her $25 million bonus look small.

That's the problem with capitalism. It's a great system until it benefits someone else. I have no idea who is the CEO of Walgreen's, but I'm pretty sure the people who go to Walgreen's are a lot more grateful for the pharmacist. But that's also capitalism. You are worth what someone will pay you; not what someone else is making. In every workplace I've ever been the discussion always has been about how much smarter and more deserving everyone was than the boss. Or the biggest wage earners. Actually, the NBA and the movies have it right. Samuel Jackson and Tom Cruise? Or the producer? I understand investment and risk, but consumers pay for the performers. They also deserve substantial compensation based on the income of the entity, which the long fraud of the NCAA finally is changing. If things continue to trend as they are, Zach will play on a maximum deal. Hopefully it is with the Bulls. I believe like I've mentioned before Zach can play for a champion if he has the teammates. I believe the Bulls are getting closer with Vucevic, and perhaps this summer. Devin Booker and Khris Middleton have the teammate. One soon will be a champion. You would be hard pressed to show how either is better than LaVine; and certainly not using statistics. Plus neither has gotten all-defense votes. And then there's the most basic economics: supply and demand. There aren't many players like LaVine, now an All-Star and an Olympian who is playing well among the Olympians. That surely increases demand. Like the quarterbacks in football. Not many win Super Bowls. Many earn maximum-level salaries because they are in demand. Seriously, give it a half season and start over? Do you remember the last four years? The CEO of Walgreen's got a $25 million bonus? Without knowing on what shelf is the aspirin?

ask-sam-mailbag-pg-options-in-free-agency-olympic-lavine-trade-scenarios-and-more

Ask Sam mailbag: PG options in free agency, Olympic LaVine, trade scenarios, and more

If you could get Ben Simmons for Lauri on a sign-and-trade, maybe I'd go for it... but you know that couldn't happen. Overrated or not, Simmons is a big star. Somebody will give them more than Lauri for him. Also, Simmons makes $33MM next season (then 35, 37 and 40). And lest we forget, he may have single-handedly lost that Game 7. He was not only afraid to shoot, but even to handle the ball long enough to get fouled. So do you really want him? At $33MM? You obviously like Simmons a lot more than I do. Maybe I haven't seen enough of him. For example, I haven't seen his toughness &amp; attitude, especially in that last series. Doesn't that disappearing act give you at least some pause? I admit the combination of size &amp; ball-handling is intriguing, but he's not exactly Magic. I thought you said it's all about offense now and we need 3-pt. shooters.

Yes, I did say that it's a scoring era, and I believe that. You have to respond first to baskets. But I would do just about anything not named Zach and Vooch to get Simmons. I know he's not a scorer, and Coby White is. And Simmons has a higher career scoring average. Though I agree with you it's probably a moot point. The vultures (team execs more than media) circle when teams lose and a player has a poor series. Or, more specifically, as things go these days if his bad play is shown on highlights and special media like the dunk Simmons passed on. As somehow they explained the loss. You know, compared to the point blank layups everyone passes on all game to throw out for threes with a 38 percent chance. And Embiid, who for some reason against a 175-pound Capella, kept pulling up for jump shots. Ah, but I digress again.

Despite the failure to retain the top four pick, I still like the Bulls position with Vucevic rather than yet another 5-10 (eight this time) pick and probably another in 2023. The Bulls' present dilemma is how to get that third main guy. Many of us believe it could eventually be Patrick Williams, but that's more eventually as he's a few years away from being counted upon. Sure, Simmons showed flaws and makes a lot of money and you want your point guard—or the guy with the ball at the end of the game, hello Giannis and Luka—to be able to shoot free throws. But Simmons is a star in his role, which is defense, facilitating, toughness and having an edge, the latter traits mostly missing on this Bulls team. I'd run to put together the best package I could without Zach and Vucevic to get him if I could. With LaVine's extension imminent and Vucevic to come, the Bulls no longer are in much position to be patient. They need to find a big time player. Or one who meets needs. There's only so long you can keep speculating about Kawhi or KD or Luka being upset or Lillard frustrated or Beal tiring. If you could get an All-Star like Simmons, I'd be first in line. Though I believe the Bulls still will have to proceed in, you know, that other direction. The 76ers aren't bailing out so quickly on their only other All-Star not named Embiid.

My guy tells me the Indiana Pacers just got a lot better. What do you think of the Carlisle hire?

Assuming they couldn't get Nate McMillan, a nice addition.

As a Bulls fan I would be ecstatic if Patrick Williams developed into a wonderful power forward of any type. Yep, only 19, already pro body, decent defense, started most every game etc., etc. but as one writer has noted..it's an offensive league. There were very few dominating offense moments from Williams this past season. What, if anything, did he show that should make fans optimistic about his scoring potential?

I'm not the least bit disappointed in Williams, primarily because he's still 19 and (fill in the blank of what we were doing at 19). He just needs someone to teach him how to play basketball. Though I think it's also a result of growing up with a poster of LeBron on your wall instead of Jordan or Kobe. In the be-like-Mike and Kobe times, you understood you needed to score. And shoot. That you could make teammates better by not asking them to do too much, that you would absorb the bulk of the pressure and take the shots and thus they got the space as the defense responded to you. It was more a get-out-of-the-way era. There are similarities to the availabilities when the defense responds. But LeBron with his caution about last shots and especially late game free throws has made this a "make the right play" era, that if you are double teamed you have to pass, that if a teammate is open you let him shoot. The Bulls eventually succeeded as others contributed more, but Jordan still needed to make the big plays no matter the circumstances. I know teams and players are judged on the result: If you won you made the right play. So Trae Young did and Giannis didn't. At least that night. Williams' principal problem is no one yet seems to have explained to him that if a defender runs at you, or even if it's a second defender, it isn't the right play to pass to Garrett Temple when it's Mike Conley running at you. It was so frustrating to watch Williams—and we excused him due to inexperience and age, at least for now—repeatedly pass the ball and run away from a shot even with a 5-11 guard running at him. His size and the smoothness of his gait sometimes could make you gasp, that a kid that big could shoot and move like that. And then he kept passing the ball! Shoot! Heck, the way they protect offensive players now as long as the defender isn't in traction you usually get to the line. Perhaps focusing too much on his poster, Williams seemed to get the idea that "making the right play" is what the NBA is about. No, it's about taking advantage of the mismatch you might have and putting the ball in the basket. That's the right play! Most of the things they add up are points. I believe Williams will eventually get it and will be one of the top five players from this draft. I just hope someone tells him enough with the making the right play thing. The right play when one of those little guards is on you, which is what most teams began doing to Williams last season, is flattening him like in the cartoons when they get hit by a steamroller. That's who Patrick Williams can be.

Now that Detroit has won the Cade Cunningham sweepstakes, does that mean their 2020 #7 pick Killian Hayes could be available? Would a swap of Bulls' 2019 #7 pick Coby White for Hayes be enough to get the deal done? Both will be coming off of injuries. White obviously has more NBA experience and is probably a better prospect at this point in their careers so additional draft capital may need to be included from Detroit. I liked Hayes for the Bulls prior to their ascension into the top 4 of the lottery last year.

I actually didn't care much for Hayes as more of a strong one way shooter as a point guard. I guess you can speculate the Bulls weren't that interested since they passed, but that could be because they liked Williams more. Cunningham seems more of a point forward type, which still would necessitate having a point guard in the game. Since Dennis Smith, Frank Jackson and Cory Joseph are their others for now, I assume they'd want to get a good look at Hayes because he was injured most of last season and basically didn't play until April. It is true the Pistons have a lot, lot of young players. But they seem weakest at guard and center. I do think there will be some No. 1 picks available since teams like Orlando and Houston have multiple picks and some veteran teams don't need more picks, like Golden State with two lottery picks. Plus, New Orleans in the lottery hardly needs another young player. One question for the Bulls, however, and that applies with someone like Hayes, too, is the risk of trying to turn over a veteran team (LaVine and Vucevic) to a 20-year-old point guard. Unless he is transcendent, that generally takes awhile. You generally can't buy a lottery pick (because teams usually don't give them up for money), but even if the Bulls could the cap hit would basically take them out of free agency. Assuming, that is, if they are trying to clear cap space to go for one of the name players. Because so many of the name teams are out of the playoffs—yes, it gives everyone hope of saying, if the Atlanta Hawks can be in the conference finals…—there's likely to be at least plenty of talks about movement. It's always unclear what will occur, but this is going to be a great offseason for rumors and speculation.

If at first you don't succeed, try and try again, said Robert the Bruce, King of Scotland, The question is how many times do you have to try on your bet before you finally give up? Wisdom dictates that if your gun misfires four times, then it is time to try another one in your arsenal. A good leader would consider the strengths and weaknesses of an individual before coming up with a good valuation so the same mistake won't happen like Spencer Dinwiddie and Cameron Payne. Do you think AK should take a gamble on trading Lavine and Vucevic or retain them and trade the rest of the team for another set of players?

I've always enjoyed that quote, though I remember it more as, If at first you don't succeed, don't try skydiving. I believe the honeymoon is over to the extent that the new management has had its year of evaluation (bye, Wendell Carter) and knows more what it wants. Whether they can get it is another issue. But the Vucevic trade clearly signaled they are done with the draft, that it's about getting that one more player who will bring out the best in LaVine and Vucevic and help persuade both this is a place worth investing in. And having them invest in you. And that not only Atlanta, but the Suns in that "tough" West with a team that hadn't made the playoffs in a decade also can suddenly be a serious title contender, why not us? Why not now? The complication is perhaps a dozen other teams not having been there lately probably thinking the same thing.

There are reports the Nets may listen to trade offers for Kyrie Irving. Trade Kyrie; Reup Dinwiddie. Really don't need a great PG with Harden always handling the ball.

The Bulls and Kyrie? Nah, don't see that one, though he's really good. Too unreliable. Well, at least with the injuries. It gets overlooked a lot with him because of the lack of a Big One (Achilles, ACL), but he barely played in college and only once in his career as one of the league's best scorers has played more than 72 games. It's true that Irving has become somewhat redundant with Harden, but I assume they have to give it one more run to determine if they can withstand a season. After all, most of us were picking them to win. And if Durant had a slightly smaller shoe size….I get a lot of Dinwiddie suggestions from fans. Yes, the Bulls did give him up when they shouldn't have, but also brought him in when no one wanted to. He is coming off now his second ACL and presumably wants a lot of money after opting out of his $12 million Nets option. He's talked about wanting to return to LA (so does everyone), but he figures to follow the money. He's not the classic facilitating guard, but before his last ACL a productive one. I assume the Bulls at least kick the tires. To see how those wheels are working.

Question I never, ever thought I would ask. I was one of the fans who could not stand Cameron Payne when he was with the Bulls. I am shocked, impressed by his improvement. His tricky hesitation move; his long arms and ability to get to the rim and finish is impressive; his improved 3 point shooting; and his impressive defense seem a great fit for us. He is doing well on the big stage substituting for Chris Paul. Cameron Payne I believe is a unrestrictive free agent this summer. He is making under $1.97 million dollars this year. We might get him for a reasonable price. That means Coby White goes back to the second unit. What is your take on trying to get C. Payne again?

I know teams always say if you start to listen too closely to the people in the stands you end up sitting with them. Well, I guess they did. Dave Corzine knows what Payne experienced. He was traded for popular Artis Gilmore at a time management wasn't doing so well in public opinion polls. Dave is a wonderful guy and was a solid contributor. And booed as soon as he got out of his car. He endured it well; not so much Payne, who arrived injured as a nice speculative move for a former lottery pick. The Bulls gave up the beloved Taj Gibson and the team was in losing mode. Fans and media turned on Payne like few not named Corzine. Sometimes you can't go home again. Or more likely won't. Plus, he's probably best where he is in the role he's in, and the Bulls really need better.

What do you think it would take to get Wiggins from the Warriors? Lauri, Sato, and Troy Brown Jr? Lauri seems like a good fit next to Wiseman down low. Warriors have some expensive decisions to make soon. Wiggins looked like he was starting to hold his own on defense.

Wiggins is one of the more polarizing players. Last year I was getting all sorts of suggestions to stay away from him, the soft stuff, doesn't care, Jimmy made him cry. But he had a solid season with the Warriors; rare for an NBA player he almost never is hurt and plays all the time, shot much better and will average close to 20 points. I've liked him more than most even if he's never going to be that stopper; as if many are. With two first round draft picks and Klay Thompson returning (plus Wiseman from last season) the general assumption is the Warriors will try to package up a bunch of stuff for a star-type player. Wiggins could be part of that to balance the salaries with the picks. Kyrie to get the titles Durant left on the table? Plenty to see here.

Has anyone made it back from this injury like Durant has? This injury is a career killer. Just ask Kobe and Elton Brand. Durant sure did miss time this yr with hammy strains but he still has that quick first step which players lose when they come back from an achillies tear. Which also means what a fresh playoffs. No super teams.

Speaking of Durant, you're correct; hardly anyone was speaking of that, and it's really quite the accomplishment to rank with Zach LaVine's athletic play after his ACL. It's remarkable the way some players—and part is the condition they are in, so I excuse some of the excess training which I believe leads to breakdowns at times—have returned to such star levels after surgeries and injuries that were not long ago career enders. He did have his Achilles younger than players like Kobe and Dominique. But it was a marvel to not only see him play like that, but play that much and perform at that level without two thirds of his team, basically. Yes, Steve Nash did a poor job, but that's for another question. As for the remaining teams, I know the networks can't say anything, but say it's Atlanta and Phoenix. How many would have watched that in the regular season? Other than you and I? It's like in golf, sure it can be a great finish, but without Tiger not as many care. Dislike LeBron or Harden or Durant or Kyrie as much as you want, but it's not a surprise the TNT post game lately focuses more on their golf games and fan tweets.

As I see Giannis shoot and miss three after three in these playoffs, I wonder if you have any insight into the coach/star player dynamic that allows this? Can Budenholzer not tell him to stop shooting threes? Would the player not listen if he did? Also, how has he been in the league 8 years and still doesn't have a reliable 12 to 15 foot jumper? Especially when we're told on every network game that he's the hardest worker in the league? What is he working on, dunks?

He probably can't. Popovich still can, but the dynamic has changed so much in the NBA. Not that it's bad as all of us employees wished we had more leverage. With free agency, shorter contracts and for some reason teams believing they have to trade a player if he's unhappy, the coaches often are in a very difficult position because if the player gets upset, he goes to his agent, who goes to the GM, who rarely backs his coach if its him or the coach. Its Darwinian. It's a tough spot particularly for Budenholzer, who is the blame in Milwaukee for every loss and bad bratwurst. Probably for Aaron Rodgers' issues, too. Not that it's that different because I always remember Chuck Daly (Pistons coach, glory years, for younger readers) saying you need players who are willing to let you coach them. There always have been players opposed to that. Giannis doesn't seem like that, though I agree he probably doesn't work at it very much. If you listen to coaches, no one can ever squeeze through the door at practice because everyone always is the first to arrive and the last to leave. It does seem like someone may have mentioned something to him with the threes decreasing, but at least in Milwaukee these days, this Bud has not been for them.

ask-sam-mailbag-simmons-vucevic-payne-and-more

Ask Sam Mailbag: Simmons, Vucevic, Payne and more

none

Presented By

AT&T

<a title="Bulls Play-In Tournament Tickets are On Sale Now" href="https://www.nba.com/bulls/postseason">Bulls Play-In Tournament Tickets are On Sale Now!</a>