1.12.2009

Chicago Bulls: So Far Vinny Del Negro is an Inferior Coach.

Here is what we know about "From Black" and the Bulls.

1. The Bulls are one of the worst defensive teams in the NBA.
2. They have no offensive system other than (a) a Derrick Rose pick and role set up at near half-court (stupidest thing I have ever seen); and (b) dribble, dribble, dribble- Gordon/Hughes/Gooden crazy shot attempt.
3. The Bulls appear to like playing for Vinny.
4. He has nice hair.
5. And lastly, he belongs as an assistant coach (not the Del Harris type, but the one usually sitting behind the players and coaches (think Pete Myers).

We are barely at the halfway point of the season, so Del Negro's got room for improvement. But then again, so does Rex Grossman. I mean they both can't get any worse, right?

What disturbs me the most about Del Negro is his blame on the players for not playing great defense. But, I suggest that you can't play great defense by fielding a lineup of Rose, Gordon, Hughes, Nocioni and Gooden. It's just impossible. Even Jamal Crawford wouldn't be afraid of driving to the hoop on those guys. Small ball didn't work in Phoenix as good teams ended up slowing down the game and taking advantage of the Suns' poor defense. It also isn't going to work in Chicago.

Secondly, Del Negro has no offensive system. At least with Skiles, the Bulls had a great offensive system with guys coming off multiple screens and a lot of player movement. With Del Negro, the Bulls set up their offense, typically with a ridiculous screen set at about half-court and the sideline for Rose. While this irrelevant screen happens, the other players just stand watching. No movement, no screens, no cutting. Del Negro is essentially running a "pick up" game offense with Gordon playing the role of the annoying player who jacks up shots every time he touches the ball.

Sure the players like Del Negro and seem to want to play for him (a huge factor in the modern NBA). But it isn't enough. Just look at their record.

About a month ago, I wrote that Del Negro was mediocre. Now, after further review, he is an inadequate and inferior coach.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Pax should have hired Hornacek!