Wednesday, April 14, 2010

In Defense of Del Negro



I don't claim to have much of an opinion on Vinny Del Negro's coaching ability, but I can commend him on the way he handles business. It is safe to say he got the short end of the stick, coming into this season. After taking a young, inexperienced team to the playoffs last year, and challenging the defending champion Celtics in a legendary series, Del Negro has been given very little to work with.

The Bulls finally seamed primed to become a competitive force in the NBA, with a superstar in the making in Derek Rose and a slew of young talent. But, instead of building on last season's success, the organization stumbled out of the gate. They let Ben Gordon go, which wasn't a huge loss, I agree, but they didn't find a replacement for that role. When another player steps up and becomes a pivotal piece (John Salmons), they trade him. Del Negro never complained, and worked with what little he had. Then there talks of Del Negro getting the axe, and those talks grew and grew until it seemed inevitable. And then, nothing. The Bulls started winning, and Del Negro kept his job. Most likely, the organization wasn't able to find a suitable replacement, and decided to let the season play out. Then comes reports of Paxson assaulting Del Negro, over the amount of minutes Noah has been playing.

Bullsh*t

Del Negro has yet to throw the dirt on the organization, and has done as much as could be done with the hand he was dealt. He lost key players to free agency, trades, and injuries. He has his team on the verge of making the post-season.

He has done a good job.

He has stayed loyal to his players, and for that, our city owes him our loyalty.

And if anyone thinks I don't respect Paxson, or what he has brought to this organization, that is not true. I do recall at least one good move.

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